Spring Commencement 2019 Guest Information
Commencement Guide
Download the Cal Poly Now Commencement app to learn about commencement weekend and receive important ceremony-related information.
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Parking and Shuttle Services
Parking permits are not required during commencement weekend. Please note that campus parking will be highly impacted throughout the weekend. Please consider using alternative transportation such as SLO Transit, Uber, Lyft and carpooling.
General Parking
General parking will be available to all graduates and guests in Parking Lots H-1, H-12, H-14, H-16, the Grand Avenue Parking Structure and Parking Structure 131.
Accessible Parking
Accessible parking for guests with mobility impairments will be available in Parking Lot C-7, Grand Avenue Parking Structure and Parking Structure 131. All vehicles must have a valid accessible parking placard or license plate in order to park in accessible spaces.
Accessible Shuttles
Accessible campus shuttles are provided for guests with mobility impairments and one companion. 
Parking and Shuttle Map
Stadium Seating and Services
Alex G. Spanos Stadium Clear Bag Policy
A clear bag policy will be in effect at Alex G. Spanos Stadium in order to enhance security and efficiency entering the commencement ceremonies. Many sporting and event venues have similar policies and this policy is consistent with industry standards. The policy limits individuals to one clear bag or one small clutch per person. Free clear bags will be distributed to grads and guests on campus throughout commencement weekend. In addition, branded Cal Poly clear bags will be available for purchase and bag storage lockers will be available to those who would like to securely store their bags and personal items near the stadium for a small fee.
Approved Items
- Clear bag 12"x6"x12" or smaller
- 1 gallon storage bag 12"x12" or smaller
- Small clutch 4.5"x8.5" or smaller
Prohibited Items
- Backpacks
- Tote bags
- Purses
- Diaper bags
- Camera bags
- Mesh bags
- Fanny packs
- Binocular cases
- Printed pattern plastic bags
Gates
Stadium gates open two hours before each ceremony. Tickets are required to enter the stadium so please have your tickets readily available at the entrance gates.
General seating is located throughout the stadium. Please note that bleacher seats do not have armrests or chair backs. Personal stadium chairs are allowed.
Accessible Seating
Accessible seating is located throughout the stadium and on the south side of the field. Seating is available on a first-come basis for guests with mobility impairments and one companion. If you need assistance, please ask the nearest usher.
Graduate Seating
Graduates from each college will be seated on both the east and west sides of the stadium.
No coolers, outside catering or items that violate the clear bag policy such as pizza and delivery boxes are allowed in the stadium. Small snacks such as snack bars or food items in small clear bags are allowed. In addition, food and beverages are available for purchase at stadium food trucks. Stadium security will use discretion in regard to unsealed beverages and reusable water bottles. Alcohol is strictly prohibited. Drinking fountains are located throughout the stadium. In addition, each graduate and guest will receive a complimentary bottle of water upon entry.
First Aid
Medical personnel are located on the south side of the field. If you need assistance, please ask the nearest usher.
Gifts and Regalia
Gift and regalia vendors are located outside of the stadium.
Restrooms
Restrooms are located underneath the east and west side bleachers and at portable facilities on the south side of the field.
Ceremony livestream (View on Youtube) viewing rooms are available in the following locations:
- Building 3, Room 111
- Building 3, Room 112
- Building 3, Room 113
- Building 3, Room 114
- Building 3, Room 213
- Building 124, Room 117
- Building 124, Room 224
Quiet/Sensory Rooms
Private rooms are available in Building 124 and open to any graduates or guests who feel overwhelmed or overstimulated. Each room is ADA accessible and is equipped with headphones and fidget items. If you have any questions or concerns, staff will be on site to assist you.
Ceremony Tips
- All clear bags and small clutches will be checked upon entry.
- Arrive early. The grand graduate processional into the stadium begins 35 minutes before each ceremony.
- Each ceremony will run approximately three hours including name reading.
- After the ceremony, designate a meeting place with your graduate outside of the stadium.
- Please dress comfortably. There may be lengthy walks on grass, hills and uneven pavement.
- Please leave pets at home. Only service animals are permitted on campus.
- Alcohol, fireworks, weapons and glass bottles are prohibited. Those found in possession of such items will be removed from the ceremony.
- Please mindful of those sitting around you and do not obstruct their views when taking photographs or by holding large signs, balloons, umbrellas, etc.
