Know Before You Go

Know Before You Go: Guest Experience

We look forward to welcoming guests to the 540th Convocation at the University of Chicago.

Security measures are in place to ensure a safe and comfortable experience for all attendees. All guests will pass through a security screening before entering the Main Quadrangle. Entrances open at 7:00 a.m., and guests should allow extra time to complete metal detector screening and bag inspection.

Security Process

Guests will enter the Main Quadrangle through one of three designated entrances and will proceed through:

1. Metal detectors

2. Bag inspection

Guests who leave the Main Quadrangle before or during the ceremony must complete the screening process again before re-entering.

Please note that once inside the Main Quadrangle, crossing between the North and South sides will be limited due to the Convocation procession route.

No tickets are required for the University-wide ceremony.

Entrances open: 7:00 a.m.
Guests seated by: 8:45 a.m.
Convocation procession begins: 9:15 a.m.

Prohibited Items

The following items are not permitted at Convocation:

• Balloons or sky lanterns 

• Large placards, signs, or flags

• Glass bottles

• Pets or animals (except certified service animals)

• Obscene or offensive clothing

• Weapons of any kind

• Flammable or explosive materials

• Sharp objects

• Laser pointers

• Pepper spray or mace

• Amplified sound devices

• Any item that may interfere with or distract speakers, candidates, or guests

All bags are subject to inspection.

Accessibility and Assistance

Designated accessible entrances and seating will be available. The accommodations entrance is located just north of the intersection of 59th Street and University Avenue.
Those requiring accessibility assistance must complete the Accommodation Request Form in advance, found at convocation.uchicago.edu/accessibility-and-accommodations, to be accommodated on Convocation Weekend. Seating is limited and available on a first come first serve basis.
While this entrance is designated for guests who have submitted an Accommodations Request Form, it is open to all guests and congestion may occur. The accommodations entrance is approximately a five-minute walk from the drop off point at 59th Street and University Avenue. A limited number of golf carts will be available to transport guests with limited mobility from the drop off point to the security checkpoint. From the security checkpoint, guests may proceed to the accommodations entrance.
If you require additional assistance or have questions about accessibility needs, please contact convocation@uchicago.edu in advance or visit the assistance tent near each entrance on the day of the event. Accessible restroom facilities are available inside the Main Quadrangle.

Parking and Transportation

For more information on parking and transportation, please visit our Parking and Transportation page, which includes detailed maps outlining logistics for Convocation Weekend. These resources provide information about campus locations, ceremony sites, parking areas, road closures, shuttle routes, and more. Due to street closures, parking restrictions, and increased traffic, we strongly encourage guests to allow extra time for travel.

Weather and Attire

Convocation is an outdoor event held in rain or shine. Please plan accordingly for weather conditions and bring appropriate sun or rain protection. Note: Umbrellas are permitted inside the ceremony, and ponchos will be available.

Smoking and Vaping

The University of Chicago Convocation is a smoke-free and vape-free event. Smoking and vaping are not permitted at any time in or near Convocation spaces.

Food and Beverage

Coffee service inside the Main Quadrangle will be limited. Coffee trucks outside the Main Quadrangle will be available, and the University Bookstore and Pret will open at 7:00 a.m.
We recommend purchasing coffee before entering the Main Quadrangle so you have time to enjoy it before the ceremony begins. See map below for locations.