U.S. AIR FORCE ACADEMY, Colo. -- The Air Force Academy has established traffic control and parking restrictions for the Class of 2017 Graduation Ceremony, May 24 at Falcon Stadium.
Once the ceremony begins at 9:30 a.m., guests are not permitted to leave the stadium until the ceremony and the Thunderbirds aerial performance ends at approximately 1:15 p.m.
The north gate, south gate, and the Falcon Stadium gates open at 7 a.m. Graduation tickets are required for entry into the stadium. Ticket holders should plan to arrive at the stadium no later than 8:30 a.m., due to increased security and heavy traffic.
All parking is in Falcon Stadium parking lots 1, 2 and 5. Handicapped parking is available in Lot 5 of Falcon Stadium, accessible via the north gate, and a smaller handicapped parking area is available in Lot 1, accessible via the South Gate. Personal handicapped placards are permitted to enter these lots. Those bringing one or more of guests who may require some transportation assistance may request to park in the handicapped area from the lot attendant upon arrival.
Please note that there are no elevators in the stadium, and handicapped-accessible seating is limited to a first-come, first-served basis. There is no covered seating available. No transportation will be available from the Cadet Area.
Due to security restrictions in Falcon Stadium, all guests will pass through metal detectors, and may have purses or personal items searched. No boxes, alcohol, weapons, firecrackers, beverage containers, backpacks, large handbags, coolers, thermoses or similar items will be allowed in the stadium. Drinks are prohibited with the exception of clear, unopened water bottles. Food is permitted, but must be displayed in a transparent one-gallon clear plastic bag. The full list of restrictions is available at www.usafa.edu/about/traditions/graduation/information.
Cameras and video cameras are permitted; however, please be prepared to remove camera lenses for security inspection at the stadium gates. Diaper bags will be allowed when a child is present - no strollers please. Refreshments will be available from vendors throughout the stadium.