Although many graduates may face the stress of what is next for life after college, an important thing that should be focused on is how they will celebrate graduation. Thankfully, San Diego has plenty of breweries, restaurants and activities to choose from.

Since graduation is the time to rejoice in earning a degree, what better way to celebrate than at a brewery? Stone Brewing Company is a perfect place to celebrate with friends and family. Guests have the options of indoor or outdoor seating and have a nice scenery of a patio with enormous trees and flowers. If you are planning on having a big party, the brewery allows guests to make reservations. Stone Brewing is located at 1999 Citracado Parkway, Escondido, CA 92029.

If you aren’t in the mood for food at the Stone Brewery, try the Chart House located on 2588 South Coast Hwy 101, Cardiff, CA 92007. The great thing about this location is that it is located right on the beach, overlooking the beautiful ocean. The Chart House is known for their extravagant seafood and fine cuisine. Though they are expensive, you won’t be disappointed with what the restaurant has to offer.

A celebration is not complete unless there is dessert present. Elizabethan Desserts has the perfect selection of sweets to satisfy any grad’s cravings. Though they do not have many cakes, their cupcakes are just as good. Their most popular cupcake is the Chocolate Toffee. If you are not in the mood for cupcakes, another fan favorite is the Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Brownie. Elizabethan Desserts is located on 114 North El Camino Real, Encinitas, CA 92024.

Since graduation is the start of a new chapter, celebrating with friends is key to making long­lasting memories. Planning a road trip up the coast of California with your friends is an enjoyable way to celebrate. Even if you and your friends only decide to head up to Santa Barbara, at least you and your friends took the time to explore.

Graduates must remember, it is not the places, but rather the people that make celebrating graduation the most fun. Where we choose to celebrate is an added bonus. One should also remind themselves with the memorable words of Elle Woods in “Legally Blonde” regarding graduation: “We did it!”