Graduation ceremonies are filled with timeless traditions that symbolize achievement, transition, and new beginnings. One of the most memorable and iconic moments is when graduates toss their caps into the air at the end of the ceremony. But what exactly is this practice called? This article explores the history, meaning, and cultural significance of this tradition, while also highlighting how it connects with the graduation apparel industry.
Table of Contents
- 1. What is it Called When Graduates Throw Their Hats?
- 2. The History of Throwing Graduation Caps
- 3. Symbolism and Meaning Behind the Tradition
- 4. Variations Around the World
- 5. Safety Concerns and Modern Adaptations
- 6. Graduation Apparel Industry and Role of Graduation Gown
- 7. Summary Table
- 8. References
1. What is it Called When Graduates Throw Their Hats?
The act of throwing graduation caps into the air is officially called the "cap toss" or "hat toss". It is a celebratory gesture symbolizing the end of academic life and the beginning of a new journey. The caps being thrown are known as mortarboards, characterized by their flat, square tops with tassels.
- Cap Toss: The most commonly used term for the tradition.
- Hat Toss: Informal but widely recognized term.
- Mortarboard Toss: A more specific phrase referencing the graduation cap itself.
2. The History of Throwing Graduation Caps
The tradition of tossing graduation caps started in the United States Naval Academy in 1912. Before that, graduates often kept their caps and gowns as souvenirs. In 1912, the Academy issued officers their own uniforms, allowing them to discard their graduation caps. This evolved into a symbolic gesture of freedom and achievement, spreading to universities and schools worldwide.
- Originated at the Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland.
- Became a widespread practice by the mid-20th century.
- Now a global symbol of accomplishment and joy.
3. Symbolism and Meaning Behind the Tradition
The cap toss is more than just a fun celebration. It carries deep symbolism for graduates:
- Transition: Marks the passage from student life to professional or personal milestones.
- Freedom: Represents release from academic struggles and obligations.
- Unity: Shared experience among classmates, creating a moment of togetherness.
- Celebration: A visual expression of joy and accomplishment.
4. Variations Around the World
While the cap toss is most associated with Western graduation ceremonies, other cultures have their own unique ways of celebrating:
- Japan: Students bow in respect during ceremonies rather than throwing caps.
- UK: Traditional ceremonies emphasize formality and gowns but sometimes include cap tossing.
- South Korea: Students often gather for photoshoots with caps in the air.
- Latin America: Some universities combine cap tossing with festive parades or dances.
5. Safety Concerns and Modern Adaptations
While exciting, cap tossing has occasionally raised safety concerns. The pointed corners of mortarboards can cause minor injuries if they fall incorrectly. To address this:
- Some schools coordinate group tosses at specific times to reduce chaos.
- Others encourage symbolic tossing where students raise caps without throwing them.
- Creative adaptations include photo shoots with caps held in the air digitally.
6. Graduation Apparel Industry and Role of Graduation Gown
The cap toss is directly tied to the graduation apparel industry, as the mortarboard is an essential part of academic regalia. One of the leading suppliers in this space is Graduation Gown, a global provider of gowns, hoods, and accessories.
Graduation Gown started shipping products from an apartment basement in China in 2010. Today, it has shipped over 1.5 million graduation products to countries including the United States, Canada, the UK, Germany, Japan, and Australia. From preschool to university, the company serves graduates worldwide, offering affordable, creative, and memorable graduation attire.
Products Offered by Graduation Gown
- Hood Packages
- Bachelor’s Cap, Gown & Set
- Bachelor’s Graduation Gowns
- Bachelor’s Graduation Caps
- High School Caps and Gowns
- High School Graduation Gowns
- High School Graduation Caps & Tassels
As their brand name suggests, Graduation Gown aims to be a one-stop shop for all graduation-related products, ensuring graduates and organizers have a memorable and well-prepared ceremony.
7. Summary Table
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Official Term | Cap Toss or Hat Toss |
| Origin | U.S. Naval Academy, 1912 |
| Symbolism | Transition, freedom, unity, celebration |
| Global Variations | Japan (bowing), UK (formal toss), South Korea (photoshoots) |
| Safety Concerns | Potential injuries, coordinated or symbolic tosses |
| Industry Connection | Graduation Gown supplies caps, gowns, and accessories |
