- What about inclement weather?
- Commencement and recognition ceremonies — what is the difference?
- Where is the ceremony and what time do I need to be there?
- How long does the commencement ceremony last?
- Do we need tickets for the ceremony?
- Is there a charge for parking?
- I have a family member in a wheelchair. Where do we park? What is the best entrance to the facility? Where do we sit?
- Can we sit with our friends and family who are in the wheelchair and ADA seating sections?
- Can I rent a wheelchair for use on campus during commencement?
- Can we bring bags and purses into Folsom Stadium for the Commencement Ceremony?
- What are the COVID-related guidelines for campus events?
- Where can I get local hotel information?
The campuswide university commencement ceremony will take place at Folsom Field regardless of the weather. Colorado weather in May can be unpredictable. We encourage guests to watch the weather forecast so they can plan and dress accordingly. If inclement weather is in the forecast, please bring a poncho, raincoat or other appropriate attire to wear (see list of prohibited items in Folsom Field).
In the event of rain or snow, the ceremony may be abbreviated.
In the event of an emergency during the ceremony, related to the weather or otherwise, verbal and visual in-stadium messaging will direct visitors to safety and the CU Boulder emergency alerts system will be activated.
Families and guests can opt into CU Boulder Alerts messaging by texting “CUGRAD” to 77295. Guest subscribers will automatically be unsubscribed post-commencement week. (Campus affiliates (students and employees) are already in the CU Boulder Alerts system and do not need to opt-in. They will automatically receive alerts.)
Another option for awareness of any CU Boulder emergency status updates is to follow @CUBoulderAlerts on Twitter and enable push notifications for the latest alerts, warnings and advisory information.
For outdoor recognition ceremonies or receptions, which are held following the main commencement ceremony, any weather-related updates (delays, abbreviations, etc.) will be announced on-site. In the event of an emergency during the ceremony or reception, related to the weather or otherwise, verbal announcements will direct guests to a safe location nearby. For a current list of ceremonies or receptions, please visit the recognition ceremonies page.
The university commencement ceremony is the campuswide ceremony in which students from all colleges and schools are invited to participate. The chancellor of the Boulder campus officially confers degrees upon graduating students at this ceremony.
Recognition ceremonies are celebrations of individual student achievement. While each ceremony is different in form and structure, these events are typically where graduating students' names are read and diploma covers are presented as they cross the stage. Please contact the unit hosting for more information. See recognition ceremonies for schedules.
The spring university commencement ceremony is held in Folsom Stadium at 8:30 a.m. Early arrival guarantees the best choice of seating; stadium gates open at 7:00 a.m. Plan plenty of time to find parking and get seated. See spring ceremony for more information regarding seating, accessibility accommodations, and more.
The student procession begins at 8:30 a.m. The University commencement ceremony begins once the students are seated and lasts approximately 90 minutes. Typically, we conclude activities in Folsom Field no later than 11 a.m.
No tickets are required for the campuswide university commencement ceremony in Folsom Field and there is no limit to the number of guests. Early arrival guarantees the best seating.
Recognition ceremonies may require tickets. Contact the hosting unit for further information.
No. Parking the day of commencement is free on campus, including meters. Additional details on parking are available on the Parking & Shuttle Information webpage.
Close-in parking and drop off locations are available for those who have difficulty walking; ADA placards are not required. Specific seating areas are already reserved for those with wheelchairs, the elderly, and guests with physical disabilities. Reservations for these areas are not required.
Please see the following links for additional related information:
Companion seating is available, but as space is limited, we ask that only two guests accompany you in this area. Ushers will be happy to show you to seating as close as possible to your friends and family these seating areas.
Wheelchairs are not available to rent on campus. A number of wheelchairs will be available and staffed to assist guests from close-in parking to the stadium.
Folsom Field complies with all TSA and Homeland Security prohibited items lists. The only bags allowed are bags that are clear plastic, vinyl or PVC and do not exceed 12” x 6” x 12” or one-gallon (or smaller) clear plastic Ziploc/freezer bag. No other bags are permitted at all; includes backpacks, diaper bags and other similar bags. More details are available on our Folsom Field Information page.
All commencement events will be held in accordance with applicable campus policies and public health guidelines with the goal of providing a safe and meaningful experience for all. Please visit CU Boulder’s COVID-19 Updates page for the latest on public health measures applicable to university events.
The Boulder Convention and Visitors Bureau can provide information about local accommodations. Information is available online at the Boulder website or via phone by calling 303-442-2911.