Tips for helping to plan your visit for this momentous occasion.
General Information
- All events during commencement weekend are optional for parents and families.
- The commencement ceremony runs for approximately 2½ hours.
- There is no dress code. Attendees are encouraged to consider the weather and wear what is comfortable for them.
Welcome Center
Donovan’s Pub, James C. Colgate Hall
Friday | 11 a.m.–5:30 p.m.
Saturday | 11 a.m.–4 p.m.
- Schedule and Event Map
- Information Table
- On-campus Housing Check-in
Where to Stay
On-Campus Lodging
Colgate offers on-campus guest lodging Friday and Saturday night of commencement weekend for a modest cost.
This affordable, smoke-free, pet-free option allows you to experience a residential stay similar to your student’s experience. While these spaces do not offer the amenities found in a hotel, their convenience to on-campus events makes them popular housing options.
Reservations for the 2024 commencement weekend are closed.
Regional Lodging
Visit the Hotels & Accommodations page for options in the region. Venues closest to campus fill up quickly, so make your reservations as early as possible.
Meals and Dining
The Friday Commencement Dinner and the Saturday morning academic reception are free of charge and open to all graduates and their guests.
Some specific programs also schedule receptions or dinners on Saturday. Other than that, meals are on your own, and reservations closest to campus fill up quickly, so make reservations or other plans as soon as you can.
On Campus
The Coop (O'Connor Campus Center)
Guests are welcome to purchase meals in the Coop. No reservation is necessary.
Saturday
Brunch 10 a.m.–2 p.m., $14 (includes tax)
Dinner 4:30–7:30 p.m., $15 (includes tax)
Sunday
Breakfast 8–11 a.m., $14 (includes tax)
Picnic and Beverage Policy
Graduates may hold small private picnics during commencement weekend adjacent to their residence halls, University-owned student housing on Broad and College streets, and Townhouses.
We ask that these gatherings not be scheduled during the following time slots to ensure that families and graduates will be able to attend these universitywide events:
- Commencement Dinner (Friday 5:30–7:30 p.m.)
- Baccalaureate Service (Saturday 3:30–4:30 p.m.; graduates line up at 3 p.m.)
- Torchlight Procession & President's Reception (Saturday 8:30–10:30 p.m.; graduates line up at 7:45)
- Commencement Ceremony (Sunday 10:30 a.m.; graduates line up at 9:30)
Free-standing canopies may be used; however, stakes and tents are not permitted. The campus policy prohibiting open containers will remain in place, with the exception of the specific location of the picnic. Kegs are not permitted on University property at any time.
Local Dining
Visit colgate.edu/local-dining for options in Hamilton. Other options are restaurants in the greater region, such as in Bouckville, Canastota, Cazenovia, Chittenango, Morrisville, Norwich, Oneida, Sherburne, Syracuse, Utica, Verona, or Waterville.
Restaurants fill up quickly, so be sure to call ahead, and make reservations as soon as you can.
In addition, the Hamilton Price Chopper Super Center offers groceries, grab-and-go meal solutions, and catering.
Getting to Colgate
For directions to campus, visit the Maps & Travel page.
From and To Airport, Bus, and Train Stations
Colgate’s On-Demand Shuttle service offers commencement guests easy, affordable, and safe transport to and from Hancock International Airport and the bus and train stations in Syracuse and Utica.
Getting Around Campus and In Town
See the Campus Map for event sites.
Colgate Cruiser
Colgate provides the free Colgate Cruiser shuttle service around Hamilton and the University campus, open to students and the public for navigating the campus and the Hamilton business district.
Parking
During commencement weekend, all parking lots are open for general use (by visitors and guests) with the exception of those designated as ADA accessible spots. Campus Safety does not require visitor passes during commencement weekend.
See the Campus Map for parking lots and ADA accessible spots.
Accessibility
Colgate strives to provide an experience that is accessible to all guests. Visit the Accessibility for Commencement page for information.
Pet Policy
Only service animals specifically trained to assist a person with a disability are permitted on campus during commencement weekend. For the safety of your pet and all guests, please leave your pet at home.
Professional Ceremony Photography
Official 2024 ceremony photos will be provided by Island Photography. Representatives will be taking pictures during the commencement ceremony and Senior Torchlight Procession.
During the ceremony, each graduate will be photographed as they cross the stage to accept their diploma. These images will be made available to you by email within 48 hours after the ceremony and 3 to 5 days by U.S. mail. There is no obligation to purchase.
- Up to 6 family members or friends can register for a photo link in advance. There is absolutely no obligation to purchase.
- Within 48–72 hours after the ceremony, you will be emailed a unique link to view or order your images from your celebration.
Further information: custserv@islandphoto.com or 800-869-0908.
Graduation Gifts
The Colgate Bookstore offers a number of suitable gifts for a graduate.
Flowers
Bouquets for your graduate may be purchased at the commencement site on the morning of the ceremony. To place an order in advance, contact Wildflowers at 607-591-6137.
Graduation Announcements
Announcements can be ordered online from Jostens.