What to expect during Grad Days 2026
Class of 2026, it’s time to get excited for graduation! This moment in your life is filled with a mix of bittersweet goodbyes and happy new beginnings. What better way to celebrate than with your fellow grads at all the fun events happening around campus?
Grad Days is a week-long celebration leading up to commencement full of special activities just for graduates.
Make the most of your last days as a CU Boulder student and attend as many events as you can. It’s the perfect way to say goodbye to your favorite places on campus, reconnect with classmates and create final memories.
🎓 Cap decorating
April 20–24, 9 a.m.–6 p.m. at the CU Book Store.
Add flair to your commencement cap! Stop by and decorate your cap with free craft supplies.
📸 Campus photo opportunities
April 20–23, 9 a.m.–4 p.m.
Don your cap and gown and head to numerous iconic campus locations to take photos with our inflatable commencement photo frames. Share your photos on social media using #ForeverBuffs.
🦬 Grad Fair
April 20, 11 a.m. –2 p.m. in the Glenn Miller Ballroom, UMC
Grad Fair connects graduating students with campus resources, academic departments, and everything you need for commencement. Stop by to get your questions answered on ceremonies, logistics and what comes next.
🎉 Career Services Farewell Bash
April 21, 12:30–3:30 p.m. in S440, Center for Community Building
Take a break from finals and celebrate the semester with Career Services. Swing by for free food, CU swag giveaways and a chance to connect with Alumni Career Services. Your lifelong career support starts here.
🌄 Senior Class Council's senior sunset
April 22, 7–10 p.m. at the Chautauqua Dining Hall
Close out your senior year at this year's Senior Sunset event. There will be food, activities and the opportunity to watch a beautiful sunset over the Flatirons with friends. One alcoholic beverage per attendee will be provided for those 21+ with a valid ID. Registration is required.
💃 Grad Bash
April 24, 4–7 p.m. at the Koenig Alumni Center
Finish off Grad Days with the biggest party of the year — Grad Bash! This day is filled with live entertainment, free food and drinks, plenty of photo ops and exciting prizes to take with you after graduation. Grad Bash is a beloved CU Boulder tradition jam-packed with festivities in recognition of all your accomplishments. Enjoy a memorable evening surrounded by your Buffs family as we celebrate in style! Register for Grad Bash.
🎓 Commencement Ceremony
May 2, 8:30 a.m. at Folsom Field
Whether you’re decorating your cap, enjoying Grad Bash with your friends or taking in a sunset over the Flatirons, cherish this special time and everything it represents as you prepare to step into the next chapter of your life.