Grad Spree

ABOUT GRAD SPREE

Since 1986, our post-graduation overnight event, Marion Chamber Foundation's Friends For Life Graduation Spree (known as Grad Spree), has been a cherished tradition, offering high school graduates a safe and substance-free way to celebrate this milestone in their lives. For over three decades, we've provided a memorable and enjoyable experience for students, ensuring that their graduation night is one they'll never forget—for all the right reasons.

A Safe and Substance-Free Celebration

At our post-graduation overnight event, safety is our top priority. We understand the temptations and pressures that can come with graduation night, which is why we offer a supportive environment where students can have fun and make memories without the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Our event provides a variety of activities and entertainment options to suit every interest and preference. From games and music to food and friendship, there's something for everyone to enjoy as they celebrate this momentous occasion.

As we celebrate another year of graduates, we invite you to join us in continuing the tradition of our post-graduation overnight event.

By choosing our substance-free celebration, you're not only prioritizing your own safety and well-being but also contributing to a positive and supportive community that values responsible decision-making and camaraderie.

Ensure your free event goodie bag by registering for the event by April 24th. After the 24th, gift bags will be available as supplies last.

This year's Grad Spree event will be after the Marion High School’s Graduation Ceremony on May 16th. Activities and entertainment is  provided to each Marion High School graduate free-of-charge.

Exciting Activities: Our event is packed with exciting activities to keep you entertained all night long.

• Hypnotist, Brian Madrid
• 360 Photo Booth - Sponsored by Banterra Bank
• Activities at the Hub, including sports, art station, and swimming
• Bowling & Arcade at SI Bowl

Delicious Food: Enjoy a variety of tasty snacks and refreshments throughout the night, including sandwiches, desserts, and more. - Provided by Chamber Members.

• Hamburgers/Cheeseburgers from McDonalds
• Chips & Candy
• Full Service Coffee Cart from Cold Blooded Coffee
• Cookies from Subway
• Soda and Water from Pepsi MidAmerica

Prizes and Giveaways: Test your luck and win fantastic prizes in our raffles and competitions, with giveaways ranging from gift cards to electronics and beyond.

Unforgettable Memories: Most importantly, you'll create memories with your fellow graduates that will last a lifetime. Whether you're sharing laughs with friends, trying new activities, or simply enjoying each other's company, the post-graduation overnight event is sure to be a night to remember.

Every year, we want to create memories that our students will take them into the next chapter of their lives. Traditionally, our Friends For Life Graduation Spree event is approximately $12,000 with the average cost being about $125 per student. Marion Grad Spree would not be possible without the help of our Chamber and community members.

Volunteers ensure that our Grad Spree guests have an amazing experience.  You can be involved in a variety of ways:

Committee Members help to plan the event. This group meets monthly from January to March and then every 2 weeks from April through May.

Event Volunteers include venue volunteers and activity chaperones for Grad Spree. Our chaperones make this a memorable night for the seniors. We have various shifts covering the event from 9 pm to 3 am.

​To sign up to volunteer, call the Chamber at 997-6311 or e-mail the Chamber at programs@marionillinois.com.

The Marion Chamber of Commerce Foundation hosted the Marion 2023 Friends For Life Graduation Spree (Grad Spree) on May 18th, taking place after the Marion High School’s Graduation Ceremony.

This year's activities included:

• Activities at the Hub, including sports, art, and swimming
• Hypnotist, Brian Madrid
• Silent Disco - Sponsored by Cornerstone Church
• Bowling & Arcade at SI Bowl

Food & Snacks - Provided by Chamber Members.

• Chicken Rice & Cheese from Tequila’s
• Hamburgers/Cheeseburgers from McDonalds
• Chips & Candy
• Full Service Coffee Cart from Cold Blooded Coffee
• Soda and Water from Pepsi MidAmerica