National Graduation Tassel Day

Young graduate in cap and gown, holding diploma, surrounded by confetti and balloons, expressing joy and accomplishment, school building in background.. — National graduation tassel day illustration

Welcome to the wacky world of National Graduation Tassel Day! Grab your caps and gowns and get ready to toss those tassels in celebration. This special day honors one of the most iconic symbols of graduation and marks the milestone achievement of completing your studies. Whether you're a high school graduate ready to take on the world or a college graduate with big dreams, National Graduation Tassel Day is all about commemorating your accomplishments in style.

When is Graduation Tassel Day?

It's national graduation tassel day on the 17th May.

The Origin of National Graduation Tassel Day

While the exact origins of National Graduation Tassel Day are unclear, the tradition of wearing graduation tassels can be traced back centuries. The tassel, typically attached to the graduation cap, has long been a symbol of academic achievement and the transition from student life to the next chapter.

Many believe that the changing of the tassel from one side to the other during the graduation ceremony signifies the official commencement of a graduate's new life. It's a moment filled with anticipation, excitement, and a touch of nostalgia.

How to Celebrate

There are countless ways to celebrate National Graduation Tassel Day, depending on your personal style and preferences. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Host a graduation-themed party: Invite your loved ones over for a festive gathering complete with graduation caps, diplomas, and of course, tassel-themed decorations.
Visit your alma mater: Take a trip down memory lane and visit your old school. Snap a photo wearing your graduation cap and tassel to commemorate the occasion.
Give thanks to your mentors: Reach out to the teachers, professors, or mentors who have supported you throughout your educational journey. Express your gratitude and let them know how much their guidance has meant to you.

Did You Know?

Did you know that graduation tassels were originally only worn by students graduating with a master's degree? It wasn't until the late 19th century that tassels became a common symbol for all graduates. Now, they are an integral part of graduation ceremonies around the world.

History behind the term 'Graduation Tassel'

12th century

The Origin of the Tassel

Tassels, a decorative embellishment consisting of a bunch of threads or cords tied together, can be traced back to the Middle Ages. During this time, tassels were commonly used as ornamental additions to the clothing and accessories of the nobility and clergy. Their purpose was primarily aesthetic, symbolizing wealth and social status.

14th century

Tassels in Academia

In the 14th century, universities began to adopt academic regalia as a way to distinguish their scholars. Tassels played a role in this tradition, but at this stage, they were not specifically associated with graduation. Tassels were used to adorn the hoods worn by students and faculty, symbolizing their academic achievements and intellectual prowess.

19th century

The Transition to Graduation Tassels

The concept of graduation tassels as we know them today emerged in the 19th century. As universities and colleges evolved, so did their academic regalia customs. It was during this time that tassels began to be directly associated with graduation ceremonies. The tassel that hung from the cap, also known as a mortarboard, became a symbol of accomplishment and completion of one's formal education.

19th century (late)

Tassel Colors and Significance

Towards the end of the 19th century, institutions began introducing various colors to differentiate the tassels worn by graduates. These colors often represented different fields of study or academic disciplines. This practice allowed graduates and their achievements to be visually distinguished during the graduation ceremony, adding an additional layer of symbolism to the tassel tradition.

20th century

The Placement and Commencement Rituals

In the early 20th century, a specific placement and ritual associated with the graduation tassel became more standardized. Originally worn on the right side of the cap, graduates were instructed to switch the tassel to the left side upon the conferral of their degrees and the official declaration of their graduation. This act symbolized the transition from candidate to graduate, marking the commencement of their new journey.

Present Day

Continued Tradition and Symbolism

Today, the graduation tassel remains an important symbol of accomplishment and achievement. Graduates proudly wear their tassels during commencement ceremonies, representing years of hard work and dedication. The colorful variation in tassel colors continues to serve as a visual testament to the range of disciplines and areas of study pursued by graduates. The tassel serves as a cherished memento of the significant milestone that is graduation.