Graduation 2025

Color Key
General Information
Commissioning Week Specific
Religious Service
Traffic/Special Information
AF Academy Only
Attendees Key
*
Mandatory
C
All Cadets
F
Faculty & Staff
G
Invited Guests
T
Ticket Req.
Monday, May 19, 2025
Time | Event | Location | Attendees | Attire |
---|---|---|---|---|
9-10:30 a.m. | USAFA Preparatory School Graduation Parade | Black Field | C,F,G | Casual |
2-3:30 p.m. | USAFA Preparatory School Graduation Ceremony | Arnold Hall Theater | C,F,G | Business Casual |
3:30-5 p.m. | USAFA Preparatory School Graduation Reception | Arnold Hall Ballroom | C,F,G | Business Casual |
Tuesday, May 20, 2025
Time | Event | Location | Attendees | Attire |
---|---|---|---|---|
5-8:30 p.m. | Athletic Department Bolt Awards | Arnold Hall Ballroom | F,G | Casual |
Thursday, May 22, 2025
Time | Event | Location | Attendees | Attire |
---|---|---|---|---|
4-6 p.m. | 94 FTS Soaring G-Wings Ceremony (Pass/EAL required) |
Hanger | F,G | Casual |
6:30-7:50 p.m. | Buddhist Meditation (Optional, cadets only) |
Sijan Hall, Oasis III, Room 409 | C | Service Dress |
7-9:30 p.m. | Bluebards Production “Legally Blonde The Musical” – Opening Night |
Arnold Hall Theater | C,F,G | Casual |
Friday, May 23, 2025
Time | Event | Location | Attendees | Attire |
---|---|---|---|---|
11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. | Muslim Jumu’ah Prayer (Optional) |
Sijan Hall, Oasis III, Room 403 | C,F,G | Business Casual |
6-7:30 p.m. | Ring Dining Out (Second-Class cadets, tickets required) |
Mitchell Hall | C,G,T | Mess Dress |
7:30-10 p.m. | Reception (Second-Class cadets & their guests only, tickets required) |
Arnold Hall Ballroom | C,G,T | Formal |
Sunday, May 25, 2025
Time | Event | Location | Attendees | Attire |
---|---|---|---|---|
8 a.m.-7:30 p.m. | Sunday/Baccalaureate Services (Optional) |
C,F,G | Business Casual | |
Chapel Worship Services (Optional) |
C,F,G | Business Casual | ||
8-8:50 a.m. | Catholic Confession | Polaris Hall | C,F,G | Business Casual |
9-10 a.m. | Catholic Baccalaureate Mass | Polaris Hall | C,F,G | Business Casual |
9-11 a.m. | Orthodox Divine Liturgy | Sijan Hall, Oasis III, Rm 403 | C,F,G | Business Casual |
11 a.m.-noon | Protestant Baccalaureate Service | Arnold Hall Ballroom | C,F,G | Business Casual |
4:30-7:30 p.m. | Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints Baccalaureate | Polaris Hall | C,F,G | Business Casual |
7-9:30 p.m. | Bluebards Production “Legally Blonde The Musical” |
Arnold Hall Theater | C,F,G | Business Casual |
Monday, May 26, 2025
Time | Event | Location | Attendees | Attire |
---|---|---|---|---|
2-4 p.m. | Wings of Blue Awards and “Blue Suit” Ceremony | 98 FTS Ground Training Facility | C,F,G | Business Casual |
7-9:30 p.m. | Bluebards Production “Legally Blonde The Musical” |
Arnold Hall Theater | C,F,G | Business Casual |
Tuesday, May 27, 2025
Time | Event | Location | Attendees | Attire |
---|---|---|---|---|
9-10:30 a.m. | Graduation Awards Ceremony (Presentation of Organizational and Individual awards) |
Clune Arena | C,F,G | Business Casual |
12:30-1:30 p.m. | Martinson Program Ceremony (By invitation to honored cadets and their guests) |
Fairchild Hall, F1 | C,F,G | Business Casual |
2-3:30 p.m. | DF Academic Department Awards Ceremonies |
Fairchild, Polaris, Arnold Hall | C,F,G | Business Casual |
4-5 p.m. | Graduation Concert (Cadet Orchestra and Cadet Chorale, no tickets required) |
Arnold Hall Theater | C,F,G | Business Casual |
6-7:30 p.m. | Superintendent’s Awardee Reception (By invitation to honored cadets and their guests) |
The Otis House | C,F,G | Business Casual |
8-9:30 p.m. | Jewish Baccalaureate Service (Optional with Gen. Schwartz) |
Polaris Hall | C,F,G | Business Casual |
Wednesday, May 28, 2025
Time | Event | Location | Attendees | Attire |
---|---|---|---|---|
7:30-9 a.m. | Cadet Aerial and Cadet Honor Guard Demonstrations (CAPEX) | Stillman Field | C,F,G,T | Casual |
9-10 a.m. | Graduation Parade (Open to six guests per graduate; wristbands required; food trucks available) |
Stillman Field | C,F,G,T | Casual |
10:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. | Parents’ Graduation Luncheon Tickets required Luncheon Registration – $8.75 per non-cadet |
Mitchell Hall | C,F,G,T | Business/Casual |
10:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. | Superintendent’s Families Engagement (Meet and greet with superintendent, no refreshments provided) |
Mitchell Hall | C,F,G | Business/Casual |
11-11:45 a.m. | Space Force Patching Ceremony | Fairchild Hall, F1 | C,F,G | Business/Casual |
2-3:30 p.m. | Commissioning Ceremonies Wave 1 (Limited guests) |
Locations vary View schedule | C,F,G | Formal |
4:30-6 p.m. | Commissioning Ceremonies Wave 2 (Limited guests) |
Locations vary View schedule | C,F,G | Formal |
7-8:30 p.m. | Commissioning Ceremonies Wave 3 (Limited guests) |
Locations vary View schedule | C,F,G | Formal |
4-8:30 p.m. | Commissioning Ceremonies Hotel Polaris (Limited guests) |
Locations vary View schedule | C,F,G | Formal |
Thursday, May 29, 2025
Time | Event | Location | Attendees | Attire |
---|---|---|---|---|
6 a.m. | Gates open to public (Tickets required; entry will not be allowed once the ceremony begins) |
Falcon Stadium | C,F,G,T | Business/Casual |
7:30-8:45 a.m. | Graduation Performances By the U.S. Air Force Academy Band. |
Falcon Stadium | *,C,F,G,T | Business/Casual |
9 a.m.-1:25 p.m. | Graduation Ceremony and Thunderbirds Airshow | Falcon Stadium
Alternate |
*,C,F,G,T
Alternate |
Business/Casual |
Note: The schedule of events is tentative. Times and venues may change due to security, weather, or other circumstances. Graduating cadets receive up to 20 tickets each for guests to attend the graduation ceremony.
(Last updated: April 23, 2025)
Black Field
Address: Black Field, Air Force Academy, CO 80840
The U.S. Air Force Academy Prep School campus facilities include the Milazzo Athletic Center, Husky Football Field, Black Field, Upper and Lower Gyms of the U.S. Air Force Academy Fitness and Sports Center, as well as other multi-purpose sports fields.
Arnold Hall
Address: 2308 Cadet Dr, Air Force Academy, CO 80840
Arnold Hall is the social center for the cadet wing and open to the public except under base restrictions. Named after the first general of the U.S. Air Force, Henry H. “Hap” Arnold, chief of the U.S. Army Air Forces during World War II.
Arnold Hall is located just west of the Cadet Area and houses Arnold Hall Theater, Arnold Hall Ballroom, Richter Lounge Food Court, a coffee shop, meeting rooms, and recreational facilities open to cadets and visitors.
Sijan Hall
Address: 2348 Sijan Dr, Air Force Academy, CO 80840
Sijan Hall was built on the south side of the Cadet Area in 1968, in order to accommodate the expansion of the Cadet Wing to a strength of 4,417 cadets. In a dedication ceremony, on May 31, 1976, it was named after Capt. Lance P. Sijan of the class of 1965. Sijan’s heroism and courage posthumously earned him the first Congressional Medal of Honor granted to an Academy graduate.
Sijan Hall is a seven-story, 625,300 SF structure, and is one of two cadet dormitories housing 1,964 Cadets. Squadrons 24–40 reside here. Dormitory amenities include a barber shop and beauty shop facilities, day spa, laundry room, and a federal credit union with ATM.
Polaris Hall
Address: Polaris Hall, Air Force Academy, CO 80840
Polaris Hall, named for the North Star, is home to the Center for Character and Leadership Development. The CCLD is an inspiring example of the U.S. Air Force Academy’s focus on developing leaders of character for the nation’s Air Force and Space Force.
Crowned with an intricate framework of glass and steel, the 43,000 square feet Polaris Hall features a large, centrally-located lecture hall, state-of-the-art meeting and collaboration rooms, as well as the Honor Board Room.
Mitchell Hall
Address: Mitchell Hall, Air Force Academy, CO 80840
Mitchell Hall, the cadet dining hall, is named in honor of air power pioneer Brig. Gen. William “Billy” Mitchell. As one of the largest and most advanced dining facilities in the world, it serves 4,000 cadets in less than 30 minutes!
On weekdays during the academic year, cadets are required to attend breakfast and noon meals, while an optional all-you-can-eat buffet is served for dinner and on weekends. Mandatory noon meals are served family style as hot food items arrive via warming carts within 5 minutes of cadets taking their seats.
The Carlton House
Address: 6776 Carlton Dr, Air Force Academy, CO 80840
The Carlton House is a historic Spanish Colonial Revival house located in Pine Valley of the United States Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado.
The house was first built as a residence for Albert E. Carlton and his wife Ethel Frizzell-Carlton. In 1928, Carlton purchased the property from William A. Otis to build a home for his wife. Carlton was a successful businessman, having invested in mines, banks and railroads. He was named “King of Cripple Creek” due to the success of his mines there, including Cresson Mine, “one of the most profitable mines in the town”.
Clune Arena
Address: 2169 Field House Dr, Air Force Academy, CO 80840
Rededicated on Dec. 6, 1993, Clune Arena, home of Falcon basketball, is part of one of the most impressive buildings in the country — the Cadet Field House. The Field House is a modern, versatile structure with seemingly endless uses. The $5.6 million building is five stories high and 396 feet by 426 feet — the size of three football fields laid side by side.
The structure is divided into three areas — basketball arena, ice hockey arena and multipurpose area. The three sections have a combined seating capacity of over 9,000. The building provides space for competition in basketball, volleyball, indoor track, wrestling, fencing, gymnastics, lacrosse and ice hockey. Practice facilities are also available for football, basketball, track, soccer, golf and tennis, as well as for intramural events.
Fairchild Hall
Address: 2345 Fairchild Dr, Air Force Academy, CO 80840
Fairchild Hall is the main academic building and where cadets spend the majority of their day. Inside they have access to state-of-the-art labs and classrooms, departmental offices, as well as medical and dental clinics. There’s even a barber shop and several eateries.
Here, faculty and staff are dedicated to developing cadets as officers and scholars. The rigorous curriculum at the U.S. Air Force Academy couples the critical thinking skills of humanities and science education with the applied problem solving disciplines of social sciences and engineering. At Fairchild Hall you can build satellites, study the classics, explore global socio-economics, and even operate jet engines! The academic building is named after the first commander of Air University, Gen. Muir S. Fairchild.
94th Training Squadron
Address: 9211 Talon Dr, Air Force Academy, CO 80840
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98th Ground Training Facility
Address: 9222 Airfield Dr, Air Force Academy, CO 80840
The mission of the 98th is to provide parachute training to cadets. The basic program trains 1,200 students per year with the majority of positions given to USAF Academy cadets. Reserve Officer Training Corps cadets are assigned positions on an availability and timing basis.
Falcon Stadium
Address: 4900 Stadium Blvd, Air Force Academy, CO 80840
A picturesque setting at the base of the Rampart Range of the Rocky Mountains and boasting some of the grandest pageantry in all of college football, Falcon Stadium is without a doubt one of the premier college football stadiums in America.
Sitting at 6,621 feet above sea level, the thin air has been kind to the Falcons. Falcon Stadium’s elevation is the second-highest of any Division I-A stadium in the nation. The stadium’s current capacity is 39,441.
Falcon Stadium, built in a natural bowl in the foothills, was built in the fall of 1962 at a cost of $3.5 million. Falcon Stadium opened on Sept. 22, 1962, when a then-overflow crowd of 41,350 saw Air Force defeat Colorado State, 24-0. AFA held a formal dedication on Oct. 20, 1962, when Air Force hosted Oregon. The Ducks won the game, 35-20. The stadium was originally built solely for football, but several non-athletic events, such as the Academy’s annual graduation, are conducted there.
B-52 Display
Address: North Gate Blvd, Air Force Academy, CO 80840
Immediately after entering the North Gate, you will notice a large aircraft on your left. Turn here to park.
The Boeing B-52 Stratofortress is a long-range subsonic strategic bomber operated by the Air Force since 1955 and is considered the backbone of America’s manned bomber force. The B-52 is the last bomber in aviation history to have shot down enemy aircraft during wartime with machine guns. This specific aircraft, nicknamed Diamond ‘Lil, has the distinction of being one of only two Vietnam War “MiG killer” bombers. After its deactivation in 1983, this aircraft was relocated from Peterson Air Force Base to its present permanent location at the Academy.
Thunderbird Overlook
Address: South Gate Blvd, Air Force Academy, CO 80840
To the east, you will see the Davis Airfield followed by the A-10 and T-38 static aircraft displays. Be sure to pull over for a unique photo opportunity. With the mountain backdrop, the T-38 makes for an especially impressive memory. The T-38 Talon was last flown by Thunderbirds leader Major Norm Lowry in a tragic fatal flight mishap while the aerial demonstration team was practicing at Indian Springs Air Force Auxiliary Field, Nevada. The A-10A Thunderbolt, nicknamed “Chopper-popper” shot down an Iraqi Bo-105C helicopter on February 6, 1991. The plane is on loan from the National Museum of the Air Force.
Honor Court
Address: 2304 Cadet Dr, Air Force Academy, CO 80840
The Honor Court lies directly adjacent to the Academy’s main administrative building, Harmon Hall, which houses the office of the Superintendent. It displays an impressive array of historical statues and sculptures gifted to the Air Force Academy including the Tuskegee Airman Memorial sculpture and WWII Women Airforce Service Pilots. While here, be sure to check out the Harmon memorial which honors the Academy’s founder. Circular in shape this memorials offers a contrast from the austere grid of the sprawling campus.
Air Gardens
Address: Air Force Academy, CO 80840
The Air Gardens were designed by Dan Kiley, the most noted landscape architect of the time. They were originally planned to be the landscape equivalent of the iconic cadet chapel. The focal feature of Kiley’s design was a central parade ground containing a 700-foot-long gridded series of grass panels and fountains set along a north-south axis, which he called the “Air Garden.” Kiley intentionally offset his grid so that visitors to the garden would be unable to traverse the space in a straight line, counter to the structured rigidity of the cadet’s daily life. At one end of the Air Garden is the flagpole and at the other the statue of the Eagle and Fledglings as well as a u-shaped pool containing five water jets. Drawing the eye down the length of the landscape is a series of rectangular clipped hedges of American holly, and on either side of the watercourse, a grove of honey locusts is densely planted fourteen feet on center, four trees wide.
McDermott Library
Address: 2354 Fairchild Dr Suite 3A15, Air Force Academy, CO 80840
The McDermott Library, located in the cadet area, provides collegiate and professional-level reference, research and reading collections that support the academic and mission needs of the Academy. The Clark Special Collections, located on the 6th floor, houses a wealth of historical materials related to manned flight, air warfare, falconry, and the U.S. Air Force. McDermott Library’s online system provides access to the library catalog as well as to thousands of electronic resources.
Falcon Club
Address: 3120 Academy Dr, Air Force Academy, CO 80840
The Falcon Club — the premier location for special events, reunions, retirement parties, wedding receptions, socials, banquets and buffets, hail and farewells. Situated with scenic views of the iconic Cadet Area and the majestic Front Range. It is conveniently located between Doolittle Hall, home of the Academy’s Association of Graduates and within walking distance of the Rampart Lodge.
Doolittle Hall
Address: 3116 Academy Dr, Air Force Academy, CO 80840
Home for the Association of Graduates. Walk the Heritage Trail and visit the Challenge Bridge, the Memorial Wall, and the Southeast Asia Pavilion. Doolittle Hall’s Gift Shop is open to the public 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday.
High Country Inn Patio
Address: 5218 Cedar Dr, Air Force Academy, CO 80840
The High Country Inn Dining Facility is situated with breathtaking south-facing views of the Front Range Mountains with a large patio overlooking Pine Valley. The High Country Inn interior is a fine reflection of Colorado design complete with a stone fireplace in the center of the dining room.
Husky Theater
Address: 5218 Cedar Dr, Air Force Academy, CO 80840
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Ground Training Facility
Address: Davis Airfield, Colorado Springs, CO 80920
Powered flight operations began at the U.S. Air Force Academy Airfield in the summer of 1974. In November, 2019, the Academy dedicated the airfield in honor of the barrier-breaking career of Gen. Benjamin O. Davis Jr., a Tuskegee Airman and World War II pilot. Today, The Davis Airfield at the Academy is one of the busiest airfields in the entire world.
The men and women undergo four years of intense academic, military, and physical training. As part of that mission, the Academy’s Airmanship Programs are designed to expose, motivate and challenge cadets to become successful leaders in the world’s greatest Air Force.
Blue and Silver Club
Address: 4900 Stadium Blvd, Air Force Academy, CO 80840
A picturesque setting at the base of the Rampart Range of the Rocky Mountains and boasting some of the grandest pageantry in all of college football, Falcon Stadium is without a doubt one of the premier college football stadiums in America.
Sitting at 6,621 feet above sea level, the thin air has been kind to the Falcons. Falcon Stadium’s elevation is the second-highest of any Division I-A stadium in the nation. The stadium’s current capacity is 39,441.
Falcon Stadium, built in a natural bowl in the foothills, was built in the fall of 1962 at a cost of $3.5 million. Falcon Stadium opened on Sept. 22, 1962, when a then-overflow crowd of 41,350 saw Air Force defeat Colorado State, 24-0. AFA held a formal dedication on Oct. 20, 1962, when Air Force hosted Oregon. The Ducks won the game, 35-20. The stadium was originally built solely for football, but several non-athletic events, such as the Academy’s annual graduation, are conducted there.
East Club
Address: 4900 Stadium Blvd, Air Force Academy, CO 80840
A picturesque setting at the base of the Rampart Range of the Rocky Mountains and boasting some of the grandest pageantry in all of college football, Falcon Stadium is without a doubt one of the premier college football stadiums in America.
Sitting at 6,621 feet above sea level, the thin air has been kind to the Falcons. Falcon Stadium’s elevation is the second-highest of any Division I-A stadium in the nation. The stadium’s current capacity is 39,441.
Falcon Stadium, built in a natural bowl in the foothills, was built in the fall of 1962 at a cost of $3.5 million. Falcon Stadium opened on Sept. 22, 1962, when a then-overflow crowd of 41,350 saw Air Force defeat Colorado State, 24-0. AFA held a formal dedication on Oct. 20, 1962, when Air Force hosted Oregon. The Ducks won the game, 35-20. The stadium was originally built solely for football, but several non-athletic events, such as the Academy’s annual graduation, are conducted there.
Constellation 1&2
Address: 8989 N Gate Blvd, Colorado Springs, CO 80921
Hotel Polaris is a resort-style, mid-century modern-designed hotel inspired by aviation. Located in Colorado Springs, in the heart of attractions and experiences in Colorado’s popular Pikes Peak region. We lead travelers and adventurers towards their true north to experience something bigger than themselves and inspire awe along the way. Like our neighbor, the U.S. Air Force Academy, we explore new frontiers, and our ever-bright future. At Hotel Polaris, Colorado Springs, we are forever looking forward.
Constellation 3&4
Address: 8989 N Gate Blvd, Colorado Springs, CO 80921
Hotel Polaris is a resort-style, mid-century modern-designed hotel inspired by aviation. Located in Colorado Springs, in the heart of attractions and experiences in Colorado’s popular Pikes Peak region. We lead travelers and adventurers towards their true north to experience something bigger than themselves and inspire awe along the way. Like our neighbor, the U.S. Air Force Academy, we explore new frontiers, and our ever-bright future. At Hotel Polaris, Colorado Springs, we are forever looking forward.
Generations B
Address: 8989 N Gate Blvd, Colorado Springs, CO 80921
Hotel Polaris is a resort-style, mid-century modern-designed hotel inspired by aviation. Located in Colorado Springs, in the heart of attractions and experiences in Colorado’s popular Pikes Peak region. We lead travelers and adventurers towards their true north to experience something bigger than themselves and inspire awe along the way. Like our neighbor, the U.S. Air Force Academy, we explore new frontiers, and our ever-bright future. At Hotel Polaris, Colorado Springs, we are forever looking forward.
Generations C
Address: 8989 N Gate Blvd, Colorado Springs, CO 80921
Hotel Polaris is a resort-style, mid-century modern-designed hotel inspired by aviation. Located in Colorado Springs, in the heart of attractions and experiences in Colorado’s popular Pikes Peak region. We lead travelers and adventurers towards their true north to experience something bigger than themselves and inspire awe along the way. Like our neighbor, the U.S. Air Force Academy, we explore new frontiers, and our ever-bright future. At Hotel Polaris, Colorado Springs, we are forever looking forward.
During commissioning, cadets become Second Lieutenants in the United States Air Force or Space Force. This is the cadet’s final event before their graduation ceremony on Thursday.
Wednesday, May 28, 2025
Location | Wave 1 2-3:30 p.m. |
Wave 2 4:30-6 p.m. |
Wave 3 7-8:30 p.m. |
|
---|---|---|---|---|
Indicates back-up locations due to inclement weather | ||||
Outdoor Commissioning Locations | ||||
B-52 Display | CS 17 | CS 24 | – | |
Thunderbird Overlook | CS 27 | – | – | |
Air Gardens | – | CS 16 | – | |
Indoor Commissioning Locations | ||||
F1, Fairchild Hall | – | CS 24 | – | |
Falcon Club Ballroom | CS 40 | CS 25 | CS 30 | |
Doolittle Hall | CS 6 | CS 4 | CS 1 | |
Arnold Hall Ballroom | CS 23 | CS 22 | CS 14 | |
Polaris Hall | CS 19 | CS 2 | CS 18 | |
Arnold Hall Theater | CS 26 | CS 29 | CS 3 | |
Blue and Silver Club | CS 36 | CS 32 | CS 34 | |
East Club | CS 33 | CS 15 | CS 13 | |
Clune Arena | CS 9 | CS 35 | CS 5 | |
Prep School Husky Theater | CS 27 | – | – | |
Prep High Country Inn Patio | CS 21 | CS 37 | – | |
Ground Training Facility | CS 8 | CS 16 | – | |
McDermott Library | CS 28 | CS 17 | – |
Location | Wave 1 2-3 p.m. |
Wave 2 3-4 p.m. |
Wave 3 4:30-5:30 p.m. |
Wave 4 5:30-6:30 p.m. |
---|---|---|---|---|
Off-Site Indoor Commissioning Locations | ||||
Hotel Polaris Constellations 1&2 | CS 7 | – | CS 10 | – |
Hotel Polaris Constellations 3&4 | – | CS 11 | – | CS 20 |
Hotel Polaris Generations B | CS 39 | – | CS 31 | – |
Hotel Polaris Generations C | – | CS 38 | – | CS 12 |
Note: The schedule of events is tentative. Times and venues may change due to security, weather, or other circumstances.
(Last updated: March 20, 2025)
Base Access during 2025 Graduation Week
- Complete the graduation base access form and await instructions.
- Children under 18 are not required to submit a request.
- When entering the gate, have all vehicle occupants’ identification ready for presentation.
- If visitors have “No REAL ID” or “Not for Federal Use” on their Driver’s License, it will not be accepted without a valid second form of identification such as a birth certificate or social security card.
- If visitors do not have a passport or valid identification, they will not be allowed onto the installation.
North Gate | South Gate |
---|---|
Monday, May 19, 2025 5:30 a.m.-10 p.m. |
Monday, May 19, 2025 5:30 a.m.-10 p.m. |
Tuesday, May 20, 2025 5:30 a.m.-10 p.m. |
Tuesday, May 20, 2025 5:30 a.m.-10 p.m. |
Wednesday, May 21, 2025 5:30 a.m.-10 p.m. |
Wednesday, May 21, 2025 5:30 a.m.-10 p.m. |
Thursday, May 22, 2025 5:30 a.m.-10 p.m. |
Thursday, May 22, 2025 5:30 a.m.-10 p.m. |
Friday, May 23, 2025 5:30 a.m.-10 p.m. |
Friday, May 23, 2025 5:30 a.m.-10 p.m. |
Saturday, May 24, 2025 5:30 a.m.-10 p.m. |
Saturday, May 24, 2025 5:30 a.m.-10 p.m. |
Sunday, May 25, 2025 5:30 a.m.-10 p.m. |
Sunday, May 25, 2025 5:30 a.m.-10 p.m. |
Monday, May 26, 2025 TBD |
Monday, May 26, 2025 TBD |
Tuesday, May 27, 2025 5 a.m.-10 p.m. |
Tuesday, May 27, 2025 5 a.m.-10 p.m. |
Wednesday, May 28, 2025 5 a.m.-10 p.m. |
Wednesday, May 28, 2025 5 a.m.-10 p.m. |
Thursday, May 29, 2025 5 a.m.-10 p.m. |
Thursday, May 29, 2025 5 a.m.-10 p.m. |
Foreign National Visitors
Visitors not on official business requesting access to the U.S. Air Force Academy are required to follow the guidance below:
- It is recommended to coordinate with your cadet in advance of the graduation ceremony.
- Those cadets will submit their visitor’s name and a copy of their passports to the Cadet Wing Entry Access List (EAL) Point of Contact (POC): Major Jason Ponce/CW 23 (This must be initiated by the cadet, not the visitor or family member).
- Individuals are required to present their passport, as copies or photographs will not be accepted for processing.
- After your information has been processed, you will be issued a pass, which must be shown to the sentry at the installation gate for entry, along with your passport.
- This process may take several business days.
The Pass and Registration Office (PRO) is situated outside the South Gate, accessible via I-25, Exit 150, on the right side of the road. Operating hours are from 7:30 a.m.-3:45 p.m., Monday through Friday, excluding holidays. It is important to note that the PRO will be closed for training purposes on the third Tuesday of each month. For any questions, contact the PRO at (719) 333-0441 or 10SFS.S5B@us.af.mil.
Parking
Parking for events on Wednesday of Graduation Week is at the Cadet Field House, Parade Field, and Cadet Parking Lots. Shuttle buses will run from these parking areas to locations throughout Cadet Area. All parking for the Graduation Ceremony on Thursday is at Falcon Stadium.
Cadet Area Access
Visitors must be escorted by a cadet or Academy staff with a Cadet Area Badge while in the Cadet Area. Visitors should not bring large bags or backpacks into the Cadet Area; bags will be searched at the bus stops and at the parade, potentially delaying your arrival at your destination.
Events in Secure Areas of the Base
For Graduation Week events taking place outside of the immediate Cadet Area or after visitor hours, all non-DoD visitors must be escorted through entry control points by a DoD ID card holder. These events include any held at The Carlton House (e.g., Commissioning Ceremonies). We recommend cadets meet their non-DoD visitors either off base or at the Field House in order to carpool and/or caravan to their destination. DoD ID cardholders, including civilians, military, cadets, and base contractors, can vouch for up to 10 non-DoD affiliated people in the car which they are traveling. Plan to arrive early for Grad Week activities in order to give yourself sufficient time to get through security to your event location.
Visitors with Disabilities
The Academy does not issue disabled or special parking passes, so please bring your own placard in order to access the Cadet Area disabled lot (immediately north of Stillman Parade Field) and disabled parking at the stadium on Graduation Day. Shuttles for visitors with disabilities will operate throughout the Cadet Area during Grad Week.
General Base Driving Info
Please make sure to follow all posted speed limits when driving on the base. Note that seatbelts must be worn by all occupants at all times. Drivers may not use handheld cellular phones while the vehicle is in motion. If you need to make or take a call, please use a hands-free device or pull to the side of the road. Also, be aware that radar detectors are not permitted on base. Finally, keep in mind that wildlife such as deer, elk, and wild turkeys can be a hazard while driving at the Academy. Please be alert for them and drive carefully. Remember, they have the right-of-way!
If Force Protection Conditions change due to world events or events closer to home, some scheduled events may change or require additional security precautions for the safety of all our visitors. Any event changes will be widely publicized in local media, on our Graduation Website and throughout the base.
Emergencies
If you have a medical, fire, or police emergency, please call 911 immediately.
There are several major medical facilities in Colorado Springs to handle medical situations:
- Memorial Hospital Central – (719) 365-5000
- Memorial Hospital North – (719) 364-5000
- Penrose-St. Francis – (719) 776-5000
- St. Francis Medical Center – (719) 571-1000
- On base, contact Security Forces – (719) 333-2000 or 333-4100
Please review the U.S. Air Force Academy’s Entry Policies
Entering Falcon Stadium, Cadet Field House (Clune Arena) and Stillman Field
All persons and personal belongings entering Falcon Stadium, Cadet Field House (Clune Arena) and Stillman Field are subject to search. Guests will have bags, purses and other hand-carried items manually searched. Leave prohibited items in your vehicle. We are not responsible for any items left at gates or trash receptacles.
Permitted Items in Falcon Stadium, Cadet Field House (Clune Arena) and Stillman Field | |
---|---|
Food: Permitted if brought inside a transparent, one-gallon zip lock bag – one bag per ticket holder | |
Sunscreen: Permitted, except for aerosol sprays. | |
Beverages/Bottles: Only factory-sealed soft sided or empty, 24 oz. or less permitted. Note: exceptions will be made for medical conditions and infants. | |
The Clear Bag Policy: Limits bags that may be brought into sporting events. The policy will help to provide a safe environment for the public and significantly expedite fan entry into all athletics’ venues. |
Prohibited Items in Falcon Stadium, Cadet Field House (Clune Arena) and Stillman Field | |
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Illegal substances (Note: Marijuana is an illegal substance on Federal property). | |
Weapons (including, but not limited to: firearms, knives of any type/size, pepper spray/other aerosols, stun-guns, self-defense key rings/key chains, any item that may be used as a projectile or deemed unsafe by Venue Mgmt., and or Security personnel) | |
Backpacks, camera/binocular cases, bota bags, camelbacks, mesh bags, large printed bags, large purse, tinted plastic bags, oversized tote bags. | |
Alcohol, glass containers, bottles/cans, hard sided plastic bottles, open cups/containers | |
Laser pointers, fireworks, or any item deemed unsafe by venue mgmt., or security personnel | |
Unapproved banners/signs (no signs larger than 18” x 24”) | |
Pets (other than ADA Compliant Service Animals) | |
Sticks, bats, poles, umbrellas, frisbees, footballs/balls of any kind, including inflatable balls | |
Artificial noisemakers of any kind | |
Baby seats, large strollers (collapsible umbrella strollers are permitted) | |
Any item that cannot be readily inspected | |
No Flash photography, no camera sticks/tripods | |
Smoking, vaping, or tobacco of any kind | |
Aerosol sprays | |
Seatbacks wider than 18 in. (no excessive pockets, concealable areas, or protruding arm rests) | |
Note: there is no available storage of prohibited items; please take back to your vehicle |
Attendee Code of Conduct | |
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The following behavior will not be tolerated and may lead to automatic ejection | |
Verbal/ physical harassment of home/visiting team, game mgmt. fans, game officials. | |
Foul, obscene, offensive or abusive language, gestures or actions that are disruptive or illegal in nature. | |
Ethnic intimidation of any kind. i.e. slurs based on race, sex, sexual orientation, religion or creed. | |
Intoxication or signs of alcohol/substance impairment that results in irresponsible behavior. | |
Fighting and/or any conduct that endangers/threatens the safety of others. | |
Indecent exposure or the wearing of obscene or indecent clothing. |
Baccalaureate Services
Various dates and locations | See Baccalaureate Services
Women | Men | Military |
---|---|---|
Business Casual | Business Casual | Service Dress with Flight Cap |
Graduation Concert
Wednesday, May 21, 2025 | Arnold Hall Ballroom
Women | Men | Military |
---|---|---|
Business Casual | Business Casual | Business Casual |
94th FTS Soaring G-Wings Ceremony
Thursday, May 22, 2025 | Hanger
Women | Men | Military |
---|---|---|
Slacks, Skirt or Dress | Business Suit or Coat and Tie | Service Dress with Flight Cap |
Bluebards Musical
Sunday, May 25 – Monday, May 26, 2025 | Arnold Hall Theater
Women | Men | Military |
---|---|---|
Casual Wear | Casual Wear | N/A |
Superintendent’s Awardee Reception
Tuesday, May 27, 2025 | Clune Arena
Women | Men | Military |
---|---|---|
Slacks, Skirt or Dress | Business Suit or Coat and Tie | Service Dress with Flight Cap |
Graduation Awards Ceremony
Tuesday, May 27, 2025 | Arnold Hall Ballroom
Women | Men | Military |
---|---|---|
Business Casual | Business Casual | Service Dress with Flight Cap |
Wings of Blue Awards & “Blue Suit” Ceremony
Tuesday, May 27, 2025 | 98th Ground Training Facility
Women | Men | Military |
---|---|---|
Business Casual | Business Casual | Service Dress with Flight Cap |
Graduation Parade
Wednesday, May 28, 2025 | Stillman Field
Women | Men | Military | Reviewing Stand |
---|---|---|---|
Business Casual/Casual | Business Casual/Casual | Service Dress with Flight Cap | Service Dress with Wheel Cap |
Commissioning Ceremonies
Wednesday, May 28, 2025 | Various Locations – See Schedule
Women | Men | Military |
---|---|---|
Formal/Semi-Formal Gown or Dress (short or long) | Evening Attire: Black Tie or Suit and Tie | Mess Dress |
Graduation Reception – Mitchell Hall
Wednesday, May 28, 2025 | Mitchell Hall
Women | Men | Military |
---|---|---|
Business Casual/Casual Attire | Business Casual/Casual Attire | Parade/Service Dress |
Graduation Ceremony
Thursday, May 29, 2025 | Falcon Stadium
Women | Men | Military | Military Stage/Floor |
---|---|---|---|
Business Casual/Casual | Business Casual/Casual | Service Dress with Flight Cap | Service Dress with Wheel Cap |
Note: The schedule of events is tentative. Times and venues may change due to security, weather, or other circumstances.
(Last updated: March 14, 2025)
Graduation Ceremony
The Graduation Ceremony is held to honor each graduating cadet’s successful completion of the Academy’s intensive 47-month program. It embodies both the academic ceremony of granting the Bachelor of Science degree as well as a commission in the U.S. Air Force or U.S. Space Force.
Gates at Falcon Stadium open at 6 a.m., and guests are encouraged to come out early to watch the performance by the U.S. Air Force Academy Band. Watch last year’s commencement.
Thunderbird demonstration
At the conclusion of the Graduation Ceremony (weather permitting), join us for a magnificent flyover by the Air Force’s aerial demonstration team, the Thunderbirds. Be prepared to witness airpower up close and through impressive precision maneuvers.
Hat collection
As the final names in Squadron 32 are called, children 7 to 10 years of age should gather in a designated location. They will be escorted to the stadium floor for the hat toss. Each child will be allowed to take one hat. Parents should wait for their children east of the scoreboard, on the south end, and pick up their children directly after the hat toss.
Thursday, May 29, approximately Noon
Important details
Graduation takes place at Falcon Stadium. In the event of severe inclement weather, the ceremony may be delayed or moved to the Cadet Field House (Clune Arena). This announcement will be made the morning of the ceremony and shared across the Cadet Wing.
Stadium gates will open at 6 a.m. and entry will not be allowed once the ceremony begins. Tickets are required for this event.
All personnel must remain in the stadium until the Thunderbirds’ aerial demonstration is completed. Following the Thunderbirds’ last pass, the gates will open for departure, at approximately 1:25 p.m.
Graduation Tickets
- Free graduation tickets will be available to the general public starting in May at two locations:
- Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce on 2nd Street in Monument. Open Monday-Friday 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
- Colorado Springs Visitor Information Center 515 S. Cascade Ave. Colorado Springs, CO
80903 – Open every day including the Memorial Day holiday 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m.
- Fully digital ticketing for graduate guests
- Paper tickets for community
- Graduate guest tickets – Sections L2-L14 & M1-M15
- Community tickets – Sections U1-U5
- Staff tickets – Sections U6-U8
- Cadet Wing – Sections U9-U13
- Tickets are required for entry
- Tickets will be scanned when gates open at 6 a.m.
- 4 customer service/troubleshoot booths (Gates 3, 4, 5, 6)



