Class of 2026, your commencement is almost here!  

To prepare for your ceremony, here are the top five things you should remember going into commencement weekend:

1. Transportation & Parking 

Nearby parking is available at the McCormick Place lots and via SpotHero. Consider using public transportation, or a taxi or rideshare service.  

2. Graduate Arrival & Entrance 

Graduates should arrive—dressed in your regalia—at the Wintrust Arena loading dock an hour before your ceremony. All graduates must pass through security and will be searched upon entry.  Graduates do not need a ticket to enter.

Graduates should not bring personal belongings. Carefully review Wintrust Arena's bag policy. Any items that do not fit the criteria will be turned away. Flags, posters, and signs of any kind are also not permitted.

Also, remember to bring your reader card!   

3. Guest Arrival & Entrance 

Guests should arrive at the arena’s main entrance. Doors open one hour before the start of the ceremony. Guests also must pass through security, so please plan accordingly.

All guests must have a ticket to enter the arena, with the exception of children 32 inches in height and under, who do not need a ticket but must sit on an adult's lap. Please note that tickets are only valid for that ceremony.

Seating for all guests is open and unassigned. Any row and seat information on the guest tickets is for box office printing only.

Ample accessible seating is available on the arena's second floor. Ushers will be on hand to direct guests. Please be aware that accessible seating is first come, first served and that Wintrust is not able to provide wheelchairs for guests. 

4. Livestream

The ceremony will be livestreamed for those unable to attend in person. ​The video will go live at the start of the ceremony.

A recording of the ceremony will not be available. To preserve your moment at commencement, we recommend that you purchase a StageClip. Each graduate’s clip availability will be subject to the university’s commencement policy.

5. Diploma

You will not receive your diploma at the ceremony but rather a diploma cover. For students who have conferred, your diploma should have arrived at your diploma address provided in Campus Connect. If you have yet to officially graduate, your diploma will be mailed following the conferral of your degree.

Above all else, have fun and enjoy this special day! You have worked so hard to get to your graduation ceremony, so cherish the moment with the Blue Demon community, your family and friends.