Please remember that traffic will be much heavier than usual on Commencement Day, and you will need to prepare accordingly. We recommend you double your normal travel time to campus on Sunday to allow ample time for travel, parking, and walking to the Athletics and Event (A&E) Center for Commencement.
Parking Information for Commencement Weekend 2026
Parking on Campus is Limited
We highly encourage using local hotel shuttle services, if available, and carpooling with family or other graduates, as traffic on campus will be higher than normal and parking spaces are limited.
Parking during Commencement weekend does not require a special pass. Guests may park in any legal space or as directed by a member of Public Safety.
If you plan to arrive at the A&E Center by motor vehicle, you should plan to park anywhere on campus other than lots A and M, as those lots are fully reserved for persons with accessible parking needs. All other campus parking lots will be available, and we encourage those without accessibility needs to park further from A&E, if possible.
View our campus map for parking options.
Please note that fire lanes, no parking zones, spaces for people with accessibility needs, and other reserved spaces and lots will be enforced.
Further questions may be directed to Parking Services at 607-274-3756 or email parking@ithaca.edu.
Accessible Parking for Commencement
A-Lot (Upper Quads) and M-Lot (A&E) will be reserved for accessible parking from 5AM to 5PM on Sunday, May 17, 2026.
If you have a state issued handicap/accessible permit that will allow you to directly park in the reserved space near the A&E Center for the Commencement ceremony. If you do not have a state issued handicap/accessible permit and you need closer parking for mobility or accessible reasons please complete this form. To ensure we have enough time to process your request, submit the form by 4:30 p.m. on Friday, May 15, 2026 .
Please contact Parking Services at 607-274-3756 or email parking@ithaca.edu with any questions.