Parents' Weekend

Labor Day Weekend
Taking place over the Labor Day weekend (Aug. 29–Sept. 1, 2025), this event is an exciting opportunity for cadets to connect with their family and friends. Many activities are designed to orient families and visitors to their cadet’s life in the military. From the Parents’ Weekend parade to the Airfield Open House and Senior Leader Panel, we invite you to participate and enjoy.
We will also kick off our Falcon football season by hosting Bucknell University.
Color Key
General Information
Sporting Event Specific
Religious Service
Traffic/Special Information
AF Academy Only
Attendees Key
*
Mandatory
C
All Cadets
I
Invitation Only
T
Ticket Req.
P
Open to Public
Wednesday, August 27, 2025
Time | Event | Location | Attendees | Attire |
---|---|---|---|---|
7:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. | Association of Graduates (AOG) Gift Shop No bus support |
Doolittle Hall | P | Casual |
9 a.m.-5 p.m. | Visitor Center No bus support |
Barry Goldwater Visitor Center | P | Casual |
8:15 a.m.-4 p.m. | Parents’ Club Presidents Conference Day 1 – Conference offering Parents’ Club Presidents information and briefings from Academy organizations and Senior Staff |
Polaris Hall | I | Business Casual |
6-8 p.m. | Parents’ Club Presidents Reception Reception hosted by the Superintendent for Parents’ Club Presidents |
Blue & Silver Club | I | Business Casual |
Thursday, August 28, 2025
Time | Event | Location | Attendees | Attire |
---|---|---|---|---|
7:30 a.m.-6 p.m. | Association of Graduates (AOG) Gift Shop No bus support |
Doolittle Hall | P | Casual |
8:15 a.m.-4 p.m. | Parents’ Club Presidents Conference Day 2 – Conference offering Parents’ Club Presidents information and briefings from Academy organizations and Senior Staff |
Polaris Hall | I | Business Casual |
9 a.m.-5 p.m. | Visitor Center No bus support |
Barry Goldwater Visitor Center | P | Casual |
Friday, August 29, 2025
Time | Event | Location | Attendees | Attire |
---|---|---|---|---|
Note: Mandatory Cadet Class Attendance per the M-Day Academic Class Schedule | ||||
6:15 a.m. | Base Opens for Parents South gate access is recommended for visitors |
South Gate | P | Business/Casual |
7:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. | Association of Graduates (AOG) Gift Shop No bus support |
Doolittle Hall | P | Casual |
8-9:30 a.m. 10-11:30 a.m. |
Planetarium Open House Join us at the Academy Planetarium for a variety of shows. |
Planetarium | P | Business/Casual |
8 a.m.-Noon | Parents’ Weekend Information Fair Offers information and giveaways from many Academy and community organizations. Information booths are available from the Commandant of Cadets, Cadet Clubs, Cadet Sponsor Program, 306th Flying Training Group, 10 FSS Support Services, and various Academy support groups. Food and beverages are available in Richter Lounge and food trucks on the Arnold Hall Ballroom patio. Do not miss this popular event. LAST BUS departs Harmon Hall parking lot at 12:00pm |
Arnold Hall Ballroom | P | Business/Casual |
9 a.m.-5 p.m. | Visitor Center No bus support |
Barry Goldwater Visitor Center | P | Casual |
9:30-11 a.m. | Senior Leaders’ Panel and Parents’ Q&A Seating limited to first 2,700 guests; No escort required. Opportunity for new (or returning) cadet parents to receive an overview of Academy programs from senior staff, including the Superintendent, Command Chief, Commandant of Cadets, Dean of the Faculty, and Athletic Director. Q&A session will follow presentations. LAST BUS departs Harmon Hall Parking lot for Stillman Field at 12:00pm. |
Arnold Hall Theater | P | Casual |
12:15-12:35 p.m. | Mandatory Lunch Cadets only |
Mitchell Hall | C | UOD |
11:45 a.m.-1 p.m. | Cadet Aviation Capabilities Exercise (CAPEX) All visitors are welcome to attend. Bleacher seating for Stillman Field opens at 10:30 a.m. Watch the Academy’s “Wings of Blue” parachute team, your national champion glider team, and powered flight aircraft as they demonstrate the various cadet-led aviation and leadership programs that are offered to cadets during their four years at the Academy. Bus support and ADA shuttle. |
Stillman Field | C,P | Business/Casual |
1:15-2:15 p.m. | Cadet Wing Parade All visitors are welcome to attend. Bleacher seating for Stillman Field opens at 7:15 a.m. Arrive early for pre-parade demonstrations. Cadets will be released on the field to meet with their visitors. If the parade is cancelled for severe weather, visitors may check with their cadet(s) on new times for Squadron Open House. Bus support and ADA shuttle. |
Stillman Field | *,C,P | Business/Casual |
2:15-4:30 p.m. | Squadron Open Houses Mandatory for all upper class cadets. If the cadet parade is cancelled due to inclement weather, squadrons may hold their open houses earlier (10 a.m.-2 p.m.). Check with your cadet for more information. Limited bus support into cadet area from Field House; ADA Shuttle from Parade Handicap Lot to Cadet Area available if requested starting at 11:30 a.m. |
Sijan Hall Vandenberg Hall |
*,C,I | Business/Casual |
2:15-4:30 p.m. | Multi-Domain Laboratory (MDL) Tours – Cadet escort required. No bus support. |
Fairchild Hall, Rm. 2H28 | C,I | Business/Casual |
2:15-4:30 p.m. | Dean of Faculty Open House Cadet escort is required. Bus Support into cadet area; no continuous ADA Shuttle. Golf carts provided as needed. |
Fairchild Hall | C,I | Business/Casual |
2:15-4:30 p.m. | Center for Character and Leadership Development Tours Cadets may escort parents through Polaris Hall and the Honor Board Assembly Room. No bus support |
Polaris Hall | C,I | Business/Casual |
2:15-4:30 p.m. | Airfield Open House Cadets must escort their visitors to the airfield. Come view static displays of Academy aircraft and parachuting equipment and visit with the staff of the 306th Flying Training Group. Bus support & ADA shuttle. Runs from Field House parking lot to/from airfield every 30 minutes. Last bus departs at 3:30 p.m. |
Davis Airfield | C,I | Business/Casual |
12:30-4:30 p.m. | Athletic Department Open House All visitors welcome. Come visit the Cadet Field House and the Cadet Gymnasium and see your cadet(s) perform at practices. Meet the Athletics staff and learn all about the many athletics programs available at the Academy. No bus support |
Cadet Field House | C,I | Business/Casual |
5-7 p.m. | Dinner Buffet Cadets only – Cadets may sign out after 4 p.m. on Friday. Cadets must report for the tailgate and accountability formations Saturday morning as indicated below. |
Mitchell Hall | C | Mess Dress |
Saturday, August 30, 2025
Time | Event | Location | Attendees | Attire |
---|---|---|---|---|
6-8 a.m. | Breakfast Buffet Optional, cadets only |
Mitchell Hall | C | UOD |
7:30-11:30 a.m. | Association of Graduates (AOG) Gift Shop No bus support |
Doolittle Hall | P | Casual |
10 a.m. | Squadron Accountability Formation All cadets that do not have personal transportation to the stadium will report back to the Cadet Area to board the bus convoys to Falcon Stadium that start departing at 10:15 a.m. |
Core Values Ramp | C | UOD |
Noon | Second Squadron Accountability Formation All cadets that have personal transportation will arrive at the Squadron Tailgate area NLT Noon to facilitate tailgating and squadron accountability. Due to inbound traffic, parents who do not wish to attend the football game will need to drop their cadet(s) off in the cadet area NLT 10 a.m. in time for them to catch the bus to the stadium. |
Falcon Stadium | C | UOD |
10:30 a.m.-12:45 p.m. | Squadron Tailgates at Football Game Parents are welcome to join their cadet(s) in the tailgating area. No bus support for visitors |
Falcon Stadium | C,P | UOD / Casual |
1:30 p.m. | Home Football Game vs. Bucknell Cadets are required to attend the game and must sit with the Cadet Wing. Parents and visitors can purchase tickets by calling the USAFA Athletic Ticket Office at (800) 666-8723, (719) 472-1895, or purchase on-line at https://goairforcefalcons.com; Bus support for cadets only. |
Falcon Stadium | C,P | UOD / Casual |
4:30 p.m. | Cadet Dismissal & Sign-Out Cadets may meet their visitors and depart from Falcons Stadium after the third verse of the Air Force Song at the conclusion of the game. Cadets must return to the Academy and sign into their squadron at the times referenced below on September 1st. |
Falcon Stadium | C,P | UOD / Casual |
5-7:30 p.m. | Mitchell Hall Falcon Express Open to cadets only. No bus support |
Mitchell Hall | C | UOD |
Sunday, August 31, 2025
Time | Event | Location | Attendees | Attire |
---|---|---|---|---|
7:30-11:30 a.m. | Association of Graduates (AOG) Gift Shop No bus support |
Doolittle Hall | P | Casual |
9 a.m.-2 p.m. | Brunch Buffet Optional, cadets only |
Mitchell Hall | C | UOD |
8 a.m.-1 p.m. | Worship Services Visitors must be accompanied by their Cadet. Visitors are invited to attend services in the Cadet area or the Community Center Chapel. For schedules, please call: Cadet Chapel at (719) 333-2636 or Community Center Chapel at (719) 333-3300. Please call the Cadet Chapel at (719) 333-2636 for times/locations for Muslim and Jewish worship services on Friday. |
Various Locations | C,P | Business Casual |
11 a.m.-1 p.m. | Lunch Buffet Optional, cadets only |
Mitchell Hall | C | UOD |
10 a.m.-2 p.m. | Jacks Valley (BCT) Orientation Tour Cadets must escort their visitors. Shuttle buses will run from Field House parking lots every 15 minutes. The last bus departs for Jacks Valley at 1:30 p.m., the last bus departs from Jacks Valley at 2:15 p.m. to return to the field house parking lot by 2:30 p.m. Walking shoes and water recommended. Bus support only. No ADA shuttle |
Jacks Valley | C,P | UOD / Casual |
5-7:30 p.m. | Dinner Buffet Optional, cadets only |
Mitchell Hall | C | UOD |
Monday, September 1, 2025
Time | Event | Location | Attendees | Attire |
---|---|---|---|---|
9 a.m.-2 p.m. | Brunch Buffet Optional, cadets only |
Mitchell Hall | C | UOD |
5-7:30 p.m. | Dinner Buffet Optional, cadets only |
Mitchell Hall | C | UOD |
7:50 p.m. | Sign In All third and fourth-class cadets |
Sijan Hall Vandenberg Hall |
C | UOD |
11 p.m. | Sign In All second and first-class cadets |
Sijan Hall Vandenberg Hall |
C | UOD |
Note: The schedule of events is tentative. Times and venues may change due to security, weather, or other circumstances.
(Last updated: July 1, 2025)
Below are our commonly asked questions. All remaining questions may be emailed to USAFA.Parent.Liaison@afacademy.af.edu.
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Can my cadet wear civilian clothes during Parents’ Weekend?
Fourth-class cadets (freshman) must wear their service dress during Parents’ Weekend. Fourth-class cadets can request special permission from their Squadron Commander to wear uniform athletic gear in order to participate in activities such as horseback riding, hiking, and cycling.
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Can cadets leave the Academy during Parents’ Weekend?
Yes. Cadets are permitted to leave the Academy with parents/visitors on Friday but must return before the football game on Saturday. Cadets will be released for the weekend after the football game and must return on Monday evening. The most up-to-date information can be found on the schedule of events page.
Cadets are restricted to a 50-mile travel radius during Parents’ Weekend. We recommend booking your accommodations within this 50-mile radius so your cadet can attend all mandatory events. Any exception requests must be routed through their Squadron Commander.
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Who is invited to Parents’ Weekend?
Parents, family members, and visitors are invited to Parents’ Weekend. Currently, there is no limitation on the number of visitors that may attend Parents’ Weekend.
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When do football tickets go on sale?
Tickets will be available at the Falcon Ticket Office or call (719) 472-1895. For the 2025-26 season, Air Force Athletics has introduced a clear bag policy that 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.
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Are there accommodations for visitors with disabilities?
The Academy complies with the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990. Visitors should bring their own state-issued handicapped parking pass with them to access handicapped parking in the Cadet Area, Visitor Center, Planetarium and Falcon Stadium. Visitors must also provide their own wheelchairs and other necessary medical equipment.
Due to the Academy’s hilly terrain, visitors with physical disabilities may need extra assistance at certain areas on campus. You may contact our Visitor Center front desk at (719) 333-2025 or e-mail visit@afacademy.af.edu for planning assistance. More information for Visitors with Disabilities.
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.
Vandenberg Hall
Address: 2360 Vandenberg Dr, Air Force Academy, CO 80840
Vandenberg Hall is the second-largest university dormitory in the country, after the U.S. Naval Academy’s Bancroft Hall. Named in honor of Gen. Hoyt S. Vandenberg, a distinguished commander during World War II and the second Chief of Staff of the Air Force.
Vandenberg Hall was the U.S. Air Force Academy’s first dormitory on the hill, contains 1,320 cadet rooms, and houses Squadrons 1–23. Along with living quarters, it contains a convenience store, post office, barbershops, supply, counseling offices, an outdoor equipment rental, along with rooms for professional activities, and recreational clubs.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Blue & 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.
Barry Goldwater Visitors Center
Address: 2346 Academy Dr, Air Force Academy, CO 80840
The Visitor Center is the proud gateway for the one million annual visitors to our distinctive campus. Since we first opened our doors in June 1986, our 31,600 square foot sprawling facility has been the home to engaging exhibits, a movie theater, a gift shop, and a friendly staff who can help you plan your visit.
Our parking lot has ample free parking, wheelchairs are provided for those with limited mobility for building use only and cannot be taken outside the Visitor Center, and restroom facilities with diaper changing stations are located next to the entrance.
North Gate
Address: Interstate 25 – Exit 156
When entering the gate, have all vehicle occupants’ identification ready for presentation. Valid forms of photo identification include a driver’s license. Expired IDs will not be accepted. No one under the age of 18 is required to present a form of identification unless they are the driver.
South Gate
Address: Interstate 25 – Exit 150
When entering the gate, have all vehicle occupants’ identification ready for presentation. Valid forms of photo identification include a driver’s license. Expired IDs will not be accepted. No one under the age of 18 is required to present a form of identification unless they are the driver.
Davis Airfield
Address: 9211 Talon Dr, Air Force Academy, CO 80840
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.
Cadet Field House
Address: Cadet Field House, 2169 Field House Dr, Air Force Academy, CO 80840
The Cadet Field House is considered one of the top athletic facilities in the country. This multi–purpose facility, built in 1968, houses the indoor track, basketball arena, and ice hockey rink for intercollegiate sports. The indoor track area, which can seat 1,000 fans in an elevated seating area, is at the second-highest elevation of any track in the nation.
Core Values Ramp
Address: Located between Vandenberg Hall and Fairchild Hall
The “Core Values Ramp” (formerly known as the “Bring Me Men Ramp”) leads down from the main Terrazzo level toward the parade field. On in-processing day, new cadets arrive at the base of the ramp and start their transition into military and academy life by ascending the ramp to the Terrazzo.
Jacks Valley
Address: Located in the North East portion of the U.S. Air Force Academy adjacent to North Gate
The second part of basic cadet training takes place at Jacks Valley. The march out to the 3,300 acre training complex, a time honored tradition, includes senior leadership, faculty, as well as graduates of the U.S. Air Force Academy.
Planetarium
Address: 2120 Cadet Dr, Air Force Academy, CO 80840
We offer a diverse range of full-dome and IMAX films, live talks and educational events using our state-of-the-art 8K projection technology and immersive surround sound.
The U.S. Air Force Academy’s Planetarium enhances our Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) outreach and cadet education mission through public shows, field trips, and cadet classes.
Please note that the Academy does not issue handicapped parking passes. Individuals are asked to bring their own state-issued handicapped (H/C) passes in order to access the handicapped parking lot in the Cadet Area (north of Stillman Field) or the handicapped lots at Falcon Stadium. Mobility impaired visitors should bring or rent any walkers, wheelchairs, breathing support or other special-needs or medical equipment they require.
High Altitude Health Concerns
The U.S. Air Force Academy Cadet Area is approximately 7,300 feet above sea level. At this altitude, it is possible to contract an illness known as acute mountain or high altitude sickness. Symptoms may include headache, malaise, nausea, vomiting and shortness of breath. Most cases are mild but the altitude may exacerbate other existing medical conditions. High altitude sickness usually resolves within a few days once an individual has adapted to the increased elevation. The best way to avoid illness is to allow yourself to acclimatize; try not to over-exert yourself in the first days after your arrival; make sure to drink sufficient fluids to avoid dehydration; don’t go sightseeing at higher elevations (i.e., up in the mountains) until after you have been in Colorado Springs for a few days; alcohol or drug consumption may worsen these symptoms.
Throughout your visit, please be prepared with comfortable walking shoes and water, since bus wait times may be long during peak periods. Note the local weather reports and dress accordingly. Although H/C and bus transportation will be available, there may be extensive walking required from bus stops to your final destination. Please make sure to consider this when bringing elderly or infirm visitors to the Academy. Because of the high altitude and possibility of extreme (hot, cold and/or wet) weather, visitors with serious medical conditions such as anemia, heart disease, or pulmonary disease should consult their doctor about the need for portable oxygen or preventive medication and the advisability of traveling to the Academy.
Transportation for visitors with disabilities
During Parents’ Weekend, specially equipped shuttle vans will transport visitors with disabilities from the disabled parking area (north of the parade field) to the cadet area and Stillman Field for the parade. These shuttles will attempt to get you as close to your desired location as possible. For events in the Cadet Area, shuttle buses that pick up visitors from the disabled lot just north of Stillman Parade Field will have special hydraulic lifts for wheelchairs. We recommend that visitors bring (or rent) foldable or portable wheelchairs for convenience with the shuttles. Please arrive early to account for loading, unloading, and wait times. Visitors should bring their own state persons with disabilities placards so the attendants know to direct you to the correct lot.
If you have any concerns about handicapped support during Parents’ Weekend, please call (719) 333-3828 or toll-free: (877) 268-3383 or email usafa.parent.liaison@afacademy.af.edu
Base Access during 2025 Parents’ Weekend
- Complete the 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 |
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Wednesday, August 27, 2025 5:30 a.m.-10 p.m. |
Wednesday, August 27, 2025 5:30 a.m.-10 p.m. |
Thursday, August 28, 2025 5:30 a.m.-10 p.m. |
Thursday, August 28, 2025 5:30 a.m.-10 p.m. |
Friday, August 29, 2025 5:30 a.m.-10 p.m. |
Friday, August 29, 2025 5:30 a.m.-10 p.m. |
Sauturday, August 30, 2025 5:30 a.m.-10 p.m. |
Saturday, August 30, 2025 5:30 a.m.-10 p.m. |
Sunday, August 31, 2025 5:30 a.m.-10 p.m. |
Sunday, August 31, 2025 5:30 a.m.-10 p.m. |
Monday, September 1, 2025 5:30 a.m.-10 p.m. |
Monday, September 1, 2025 5:30 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 | |
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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. |
Connect With Your Cadet
Welcoming the Newest Class
Since the parent and family program kicks off on Friday morning, it is recommended to arrive in Colorado Springs on Thursday. Over the weekend, family and friends will have numerous opportunities to connect with their cadet. Indeed, on Friday evening, the cadets are released and can leave the installation to spend the night with their families. They must return on Saturday before the football game as during the game, cadets sit together with their squadron. After the game, they are released again until around 7 p.m. on Monday evening.
Accommodations should be reserved within a 50-mile radius of the Academy since cadets are restricted to a 50-mile travel radius during Parents’ Weekend. Any exception requests must be routed through the cadet’s Squadron Commander.





Angelina Harris, Class of ’26
Legal Studies
Arabic, Spanish Minors
“I loved being able to show my little sister around USAFA. She loves to watch the parade, see my uniforms, and meet my friends. It is important to me that she sees her big sister here and knows that she can do hard things, too!”