Hey there Susie!
Welcome to planDisney and we're so happy to see you here with your question! How considerate of you to be thinking of your graduating family member. It's exciting to have a graduating senior in the family and I'm sure that they're super excited to be a part of
Disneyland Resort Grad Nite this year!
I'm afraid that we don't know the exact date when Grad Nite merchandise or graduation themed items will be available. My recommendation would be to check
shopdisney.com to see when they might have inventory. When they do, there's a chance that the items might also be found at the Disneyland Resort. You could also follow the
Disney Parks Blog to see if they make any announcements about Graduation Season merchandise.
I notice that you stated that you would be visiting the Resort before the first Grad Nite which takes place on May 10, 2024. Another gift suggestion would be an embroidered piece of clothing for your family member.
The Mad Hatter in Main Street, U.S.A. at Disneyland Park and the
Kingswell Shop in Buena Vista Street at Disney California Adventure will personalize and embroider any piece of clothing that was purchased at the Disneyland Resort as long as you present the receipt. They'll take a wide variety of items, too. I once asked the Cast Member there what the most unique item she had embroidered and she replied "the seat of someone's pants!"
Fun Fact: The very first
Grad Nite was held in June of 1961 at Disneyland Park and drew over 8,500 students. They were encouraged to dress up for the occasion so guys wore suits with ties and girls wore dresses. And if you look hard enough, you might find
"Movin' On," a forgotten film about Grad Nite at the Walt Disney World Resort that gives you a glimpse of life in the 1970s!
Susie, I hope that you found this helpful and that you're able to find the perfect gift for the grad in your family! Please come on back if you need anything further because we'd be happy to assist. You're always welcome at planDisney!
Wishing You a Great, Big, Beautiful Tomorrow!
-Al