A close-up of a shimmering graduation tassel, elegantly draped over a diploma, with natural lighting highlighting the rich colors and intricate details

National Graduation Tassel Day celebrates the symbolic tassel that marks one of life’s most significant academic achievements. This special day honors students’ dedication, hard work, and successful completion of their educational journey.

Quick Facts

When is it?: May 17th annually
Tagged as: Educational observance
What’s the hashtag?: #NationalGraduationTasselDay
When was it founded?: 2015
Who founded it?: Tassel Depot

History of National Graduation Tassel Day

The tradition of graduation tassels dates back to the 12th century, originally serving a practical purpose of keeping hoods in place. The modern practice of moving the tassel from right to left during graduation ceremonies became popularized in the late 20th century, symbolizing the transition from student to graduate.

Timeline

  • 12th Century: Origin of graduation ceremonies and attire
  • 15th Century: Introduction of the graduation mortarboard
  • Late 20th Century: Popularization of the tassel-moving ritual
  • 2015: First official celebration of National Graduation Tassel Day

Dates by Next Years

YearDateDay
2025May 17Saturday
2026May 17Sunday
2027May 17Monday
2028May 17Wednesday
2029May 17Thursday

How It’s Observed

People celebrate by sharing graduation photos, organizing reunions, and congratulating new graduates. Many universities hold special ceremonies, and graduates often preserve their tassels as cherished keepsakes.

Fun Facts About Graduation Tassels

  • Tassel colors traditionally represent different fields of study
  • The right-to-left tassel move symbolizes the transition from candidate to graduate
  • Medieval clergy inspired the modern graduation attire
  • Tassels were originally functional items before becoming symbolic

Quiz

  • What century did graduation ceremonies begin?
  • Which direction does the tassel move during graduation?
  • What year was National Graduation Tassel Day established?
    (Answers: 12th century, right to left, 2015)

FAQs

  • Can graduates keep their tassels? Yes, as mementos
  • Do tassel colors have meaning? Yes, they represent different academic disciplines
  • Is the tassel tradition universal? Most Western universities follow this tradition

Importance of National Graduation Tassel Day

This day serves as a reminder of academic achievements, marks the transition to new beginnings, and celebrates educational milestones. It brings together communities to honor both past and present graduates.

  • National Graduation Day
  • National Student Day
  • National Education Day
  • National Teacher Day
  • National Honor Society Day