Table of Contents

Your Comprehensive Guide to William & Mary Graduation 2025

Planning to attend or participate in the William & Mary graduation ceremony in 2025? You’ve come to the right place. This comprehensive guide provides everything you need to know, from key dates and ticketing information to traditions, accommodations, and making the most of your visit to Williamsburg. We aim to provide unparalleled detail and insight, based on years of observing and assisting families with this momentous occasion. Get ready for a memorable celebration!

Key Dates and Deadlines for the William & Mary Class of 2025 Graduation

Staying on top of important dates is crucial for a smooth graduation experience. Here’s a breakdown of key milestones leading up to the William & Mary graduation ceremony:

Fall 2024: Graduation application opens. Students intending to graduate in May 2025 should submit their application through Banner Self-Service.
Early Spring 2025: Deadline to apply for graduation. Missing this deadline can delay your graduation.
Spring 2025: Regalia ordering period begins. Information on ordering caps, gowns, and hoods will be available through the William & Mary bookstore.
April 2025: Senior Class Gift campaign concludes. A chance for graduating seniors to give back to the university.
May 2025 (Specific Date TBD): Final exams conclude.
May 2025 (Specific Date TBD): Commencement Rehearsal. Attendance is strongly encouraged for all graduating students.
May 2025 (Specific Date TBD): William & Mary Graduation Ceremony. The main event!

Important Note: Specific dates for events like commencement rehearsal and the graduation ceremony are typically announced in the late fall or early winter. Check the official William & Mary website and your student email for updates.

Understanding the William & Mary Graduation Ceremony Structure

The William & Mary graduation ceremony is a multi-day event filled with tradition and celebration. Understanding the structure can help you plan your visit and ensure you don’t miss any important moments.

The Main Commencement Ceremony

The central event is the main commencement ceremony, held outdoors (weather permitting) in the Wren Yard. This ceremony includes:

Procession of faculty and graduating students.
Welcome remarks from the university president and other dignitaries.
Commencement address by a distinguished speaker.
Conferring of degrees.
A symbolic turning of the tassels.

Departmental and School-Specific Ceremonies

In addition to the main ceremony, individual departments and schools often host their own smaller ceremonies. These events offer a more intimate setting for recognizing graduates and often include:

Presentation of individual diplomas.
Departmental awards and recognitions.
Speeches from faculty members.
Opportunities for graduates to take photos with professors and classmates.

Other Graduation-Related Events

Throughout graduation weekend, various other events take place, including:

Baccalaureate service: A non-denominational service offering reflection and inspiration for graduates.
ROTC commissioning ceremony: For graduating students who have completed ROTC programs.
Receptions and celebrations hosted by departments, schools, and student organizations.

Ticketing and Seating Information for Graduation 2025

Securing tickets and understanding the seating arrangements are essential for family and friends attending the William & Mary graduation. Here’s what you need to know:

Ticket Requirements: Traditionally, William & Mary commencement ceremonies have required tickets for guests. The number of tickets allotted per graduate can vary, so it’s important to check the official graduation website for the most up-to-date information.
Ticket Distribution: Graduates typically receive their tickets a few weeks before the ceremony. The distribution method will be announced by the university.
Seating Arrangements: Seating for guests is generally on a first-come, first-served basis. Arriving early is recommended to secure good seats, especially if you have a large group or require accessible seating.
Accessible Seating: William & Mary provides accessible seating options for guests with disabilities. Information on reserving accessible seating will be available on the graduation website.
Inclement Weather Plan: In case of inclement weather, the ceremony may be moved indoors to Kaplan Arena. Seating will be significantly limited in this scenario, and tickets will be required for all attendees.

Navigating Williamsburg During Graduation Weekend: Accommodations and Transportation

Williamsburg is a popular tourist destination, especially during graduation weekend. Booking accommodations and planning transportation well in advance is highly recommended.

Accommodations

Here are some accommodation options in and around Williamsburg:

On-Campus Housing: Limited on-campus housing may be available for families of graduating students. Check the William & Mary website for availability and booking information.
Hotels: Williamsburg offers a wide range of hotels, from budget-friendly options to luxury resorts. Popular hotels include the Williamsburg Inn, the Williamsburg Lodge, and the Great Wolf Lodge.
Vacation Rentals: Consider renting a house or condo through Airbnb or VRBO for a more spacious and private experience.

Pro Tip: Book your accommodations as early as possible, as hotels and rentals tend to fill up quickly during graduation weekend. Many hotels offer special graduation packages, so be sure to inquire about those.

Transportation

Getting around Williamsburg during graduation weekend can be challenging due to increased traffic and limited parking. Here are some transportation options:

Driving: If you’re driving, be prepared for traffic congestion and limited parking near the William & Mary campus. Plan to arrive early to secure a parking spot.
Shuttle Services: William & Mary often provides shuttle services from designated parking areas to the campus during graduation weekend. Check the graduation website for shuttle schedules and routes.
Taxis and Ride-Sharing Services: Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Williamsburg, but availability may be limited during peak hours.
Walking: Williamsburg is a walkable city, especially the historic downtown area. Consider walking if your accommodations are within a reasonable distance of the campus.

Celebrating Your Graduate: Restaurants and Entertainment in Williamsburg

Graduation weekend is a time for celebration! Williamsburg offers a variety of restaurants and entertainment options to help you commemorate this special occasion.

Restaurants

Here are some popular restaurants in Williamsburg:

The Trellis Bar & Grill: Known for its upscale American cuisine and elegant ambiance.
Chowning’s Tavern: A historic tavern offering traditional colonial fare and live entertainment.
Second Street American Bistro: A casual bistro serving classic American dishes with a modern twist.
Opus 9 Steakhouse: A fine-dining steakhouse with an extensive wine list.
DoG Street Pub: A lively pub with a wide selection of beers and pub fare.

Reservations are highly recommended, especially for dinner, as restaurants tend to be busy during graduation weekend.

Entertainment

In addition to the graduation ceremonies and celebrations, Williamsburg offers a variety of entertainment options:

Colonial Williamsburg: Explore the historic streets and buildings of Colonial Williamsburg, a living history museum.
Busch Gardens Williamsburg: Enjoy thrilling rides and live entertainment at this popular theme park.
Water Country USA: Cool off at this water park with slides, pools, and attractions for all ages.
Shopping: Browse the unique shops and boutiques in Merchants Square and Colonial Williamsburg.
Golf: Play a round of golf at one of Williamsburg’s many championship golf courses.

Traditions and Customs at William & Mary Graduation

The William & Mary graduation ceremony is steeped in tradition and history. Understanding these customs can enhance your appreciation of the event.

Academic Regalia: Graduating students wear traditional academic regalia, including caps, gowns, and hoods. The color of the hood lining indicates the field of study.
The Wren Building: The Wren Building, the oldest college building in the United States, serves as a backdrop for the commencement ceremony.
The Crim Dell Walk: Legend has it that if two students walk across the Crim Dell bridge together, they are destined to be together forever. Many graduating couples take this walk during graduation weekend.
The Musket Salute: At the conclusion of the ceremony, the ROTC cadets fire a musket salute in honor of the graduating class.
The Alma Mater: The William & Mary alma mater, “Hail, Tribe, Hail,” is sung at the end of the ceremony.

Tips for Making the Most of William & Mary Graduation 2025

To ensure a smooth and memorable graduation experience, consider these tips:

Plan Ahead: Book accommodations, make restaurant reservations, and purchase tickets for attractions well in advance.
Arrive Early: Arrive early for the commencement ceremony and other events to secure good seats and avoid traffic congestion.
Dress Comfortably: Wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be doing a lot of walking. Dress appropriately for the weather, as the ceremony is held outdoors.
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water, especially if it’s a hot day.
Bring a Camera: Capture the memories of this special occasion.
Check the Weather Forecast: Be prepared for any type of weather. Bring an umbrella or raincoat if rain is expected.
Review the Schedule: Familiarize yourself with the schedule of events and plan accordingly.
Most Importantly: Relax and enjoy the celebration!

A Final Thought on Celebrating Your Graduate’s Achievements

The William & Mary graduation ceremony is a culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and perseverance. It’s a time to celebrate your graduate’s achievements and to look forward to their bright future. By planning ahead and taking advantage of the resources available, you can ensure a memorable and enjoyable graduation experience for everyone involved. We hope this guide has provided you with the information you need to navigate William & Mary graduation 2025 with ease and confidence. Congratulations to the Class of 2025!