Be prepared for the 2026 Commencement Ceremony
Spring Commencement is just around the corner, and we’re so glad you’ll be joining us at 鶹ѰBoulder to celebrate your Buff! The following information will help you plan ahead and enjoy a meaningful day on campus.
Planning your arrival
Expect traffic and arrive early
Commencement weekend brings a lot of excitement—and a lot of visitors—to Boulder and campus. Please plan for heavy traffic and allow extra time to park and get to the stadium.
All 鶹ѰBoulder campus parking lots will be free and open to the public on a space-available basis during the commencement and recognition ceremonies.
- Review campus parking options before you arrive
- Early arrival will help reduce stress and ensure a smoother experience
Accessibility and accommodations
鶹ѰBoulder is committed to making commencement and recognition ceremonies welcoming and accessible for all guests.
Available accommodations include:
- ADA‑accessible parking and drop‑off locations
- Wheelchair seating and assistance
- Real-time captioning and assistive listening devices
- All-gender restrooms
- Lactation spaces and additional support services
We encourage families to review the ADA and accommodations information in advance so everyone in your party can fully enjoy the celebration.
Commencement Ceremony details
What to bring (and what to leave at home)
Folsom Field has a clear bag policy that will be enforced during the commencement ceremony. All guests should expect to go through a security screening before entering the stadium.
Allowed bags:
- Clear plastic, vinyl or PVC bags no larger than 12” x 6” x 12”
- One-gallon (or smaller) clear plastic freezer bags
Please note that backpacks, diaper bags and other similar bags are not permitted.
Several items are also prohibited inside Folsom Field, including balloons, artificial noisemakers, professional‑grade cameras and video equipment. Reviewing the prohibited items list ahead of time can help avoid delays at the gate.
Seating and ceremony timing
- Stadium gates open: 7 a.m.
- Recommended seating time: By 8:15 a.m. to enjoy watching the student processional
No tickets are required for the commencement ceremony. Seating is first‑come, first‑served, so arriving early is the best way to secure seats together and near your graduate.
Build your full celebration schedule
The main commencement ceremony is 鶹ѰBoulder’s premier event honoring all graduating Buffs, but it’s not the only opportunity to celebrate.
The celebrations continue at thehosted by your student's specific college, school, department or program. Recognition ceremonies complement the commencement ceremony by recognizing the individual student in a smaller, more intimate setting.
We encourage families to view the full commencement celebrations schedule to make the most of this special milestone.
Have questions?
Many common questions are answered on the commencement FAQ page—this is a great resource as you finalize travel plans and prepare for the day.
We’re honored to celebrate this moment with your family and look forward to welcoming you to campus for Spring Commencement!