The information below outlines everything guests need to know to see their graduate in the 2025 commencement ceremony in Wallace Wade Stadium. See Graduate Instructions for information about where graduates need to be on commencement day, when and how they can get there.
Commencement Day Protocols
Guest Mobile Tickets
The window to request tickets is closed. It will open on April 9 for students to request tickets for their guests.
Tickets will be required for this event. Graduates should plan to transfer tickets to their guest ahead of your arrival to the stadium. Instructions on how to do this can be found here. This will ensure a positive entry experience for all. Guests will not be able to enter the stadium without a ticket.
Additionally, the commencement ceremony will be available via livestream on commencement.duke.edu.
Guest Seating
Guest seating is on a first come, first serve basis. We ask that guests be seated no later than 8:30AM. Please allow plenty of time for travel and parking. Please see the Parking & Transportation map and the Wallace Wade Stadium diagram for additional details.
No pets allowed. Umbrellas are permitted.
Bag and Other Items Policy
- Bags and items larger than 12” x 12” x 6” (including backpacks, duffel bags, large purses, suitcases, wrapped gifts, banners, flags, signs, etc.) are prohibited from entering the venue. Please leave such items in personal vehicles or hotel rooms.
- If bags are required for medical or childcare reasons, clear bags (12” x 12” x 6” or smaller) are highly recommended to expedite entry and minimize touch points.
- If larger items are required for a medical or accessibility need, please contact Duke Disability Management for additional information and accommodations.
Staying Cool in the Heat
We encourage guests to hydrate before and during the ceremony. Water bottles will be located at multiple stations throughout the venue. Sunscreen is encouraged as well as hats and sunglasses.
Make sure to wear appropriately cool layers and dress for the weather the entire day. Some walking will be required, so comfortable shoes are recommended.
Tobacco-Free Campus
Duke University is a Tobacco-Free Campus. The use of any tobacco-based product is prohibited, including but not limited to cigarettes, cigars, cigarillos, chewing tobacco, snuff, and electronic smoking devices (including e-cigarettes, vaping products, and IQOS). For more information on Duke University’s Tobacco-Free Campus policy, visit https://healthy.duke.edu/tobaccofree/.
Commencement Weekend Parking & Transportation
Detailed information regarding parking lots, shuttles and campus maps for Commencement 2025 weekend can be found on the Parking & Transportation page.