National Graduation Tassel Day

Celebrated on 05/17/2026

Quick Fact

National Graduation Tassel Day was established in 2017 by Tassel Toppers, a company specializing in personalized graduation cap decorations. Observed annually on May 17, the day honors the achievements of students and the symbolic tradition of the tassel turn during commencement ceremonies. The holiday was created to provide a specific day of recognition for the milestone that the tassel represents in a graduate's academic career.

Origins and Establishment of National Graduation Tassel Day

National Graduation Tassel Day was established by the Tassel Depot, a leading manufacturer of graduation regalia, in 2016. The day was chosen to coincide with the peak of graduation season, allowing graduates and their families to celebrate the symbolic tassel. The holiday aims to honor the hard work and dedication that culminates in the turning of the tassel during commencement ceremonies.

Evolution and Modern Commemoration

Initially a small observance, National Graduation Tassel Day has grown with social media campaigns using hashtags like #TasselDay. Schools and universities now participate by hosting tassel-themed events, and many graduates share photos of their tassels online. The day has also become a time for alumni to reflect on their own graduations and for current students to look forward to their future milestones.

Facts & General Observations

• Over 3.9 million high school diplomas and 1.9 million bachelor's degrees are awarded annually in the United States, each typically accompanied by a tassel.
• The tradition of the tassel dates back to medieval universities, where scholars wore cords and tassels to denote their academic status.
• The color of the tassel often corresponds to the graduate's field of study, with specific colors assigned by the American Council on Education.

Explore more celebrations, trivia, and quests on National Day Quest.