Charlottesville's Graduation Season Is the Best Time of Year
May and June in Charlottesville mean one thing: celebration. From UVA's Lawn ceremonies to high school graduations across Albemarle County, this city knows how to mark a milestone. And after 38 years of helping local families celebrate, we know exactly what makes a graduation party unforgettable — and it starts with the right balloon décor.
Whether you're hosting 20 people in your backyard or 200 at a venue on the Downtown Mall, this guide will help you plan a display that honors your grad in style.
Start With School Colors
The easiest and most meaningful color choice for a graduation party? School colors. Here are some local favorites:
- UVA (University of Virginia): Navy blue and orange — bold, classic, and instantly recognizable.
- Virginia Tech: Maroon and burnt orange — rich and warm.
- Albemarle High School: Navy and gold — elegant and versatile.
- Monticello High School: Royal blue and gold — bright and festive.
- Western Albemarle: Green and gold — fresh and celebratory.
Not sure which latex colors match your school's palette? Stop by or reach out — we've been matching school colors for decades and keep a wide range in stock through graduation season.
Choose Your Balloon Display Style
There's no one-size-fits-all approach to graduation décor. Here are the most popular options we offer:
Balloon Arches
Nothing makes a statement like a full balloon arch. Perfect as a photo backdrop, entrance frame, or focal point behind the dessert table. We can build arches in your grad's school colors, with Mylar accents like stars, diplomas, or graduation caps woven in. Order early — arches book up fast in May and June!
Balloon Garlands
Balloon garlands are the organic, modern alternative to traditional arches. They drape beautifully along tables, mantels, and staircases. Mix pearl white, school colors, and gold for a look that photographs beautifully.
Balloon Columns
Balloon columns are ideal for flanking an entrance, a stage, or a gift table. Pair two columns in school colors for a classic, polished look that works indoors or out.
Balloon Bouquets
For a simpler, budget-friendly option, a cluster of balloon bouquets scattered around the party space adds color and festivity without the full installation. Mix latex and Mylar graduation balloons for a fun, layered look.
Don't Forget the Mylar Accents
Graduation-themed Mylar balloons — diplomas, graduation caps, "Class of 2026" numbers, and stars — add personality and a personal touch to any display. Browse our Celebration Mylar Balloons and Milestone Birthday Mylar Balloons for accent pieces that complement your latex display.
Timing Tips for Charlottesville Grads
- Order at least 1–2 weeks ahead for custom arches and garlands — especially during peak graduation weekends in mid-May through early June.
- UVA Finals Weekend (typically mid-May) is our busiest time of year. If your party is that weekend, order by early May.
- Outdoor parties: Wind and heat affect balloons. We recommend latex treated with Hi-Float for outdoor helium displays, and we can advise on the best setup for your venue.
- Pickup or delivery: We offer both — just let us know your party date and location.
A Note on UVA Graduation Traditions
UVA grads and their families have a special relationship with celebration — from the Rotunda steps to rooftop parties on the Corner. We've decorated for countless UVA graduation parties over the years, and we love helping families make those moments as beautiful as they are meaningful. Navy and orange never looked so good.
Ready to Plan Your Grad's Party?
The Party Starts Here has been Charlottesville's trusted source for balloon décor since 1988. We know the local venues, the school colors, and the timeline pressures of graduation season. Let us help you create a display your grad — and your Instagram feed — will love.
Shop our balloon collections online or contact us to discuss a custom graduation display. We'd love to help you celebrate!