U.S. Air Force Academy, Colo. -- The U.S. Air Force Academy Class of 2026 Graduation is May 28 at Falcon Stadium. Visitors and residents should expect heavy traffic, road closures and event detours on May 27 and 28.
The U.S. Air Force Air Demonstration Squadron, the Thunderbirds arrive in Colorado Springs May 26 and will conduct a survey mission over the Academy from approximately 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. before landing at Peterson Space Force Base. On May 27, the Thunderbirds will conduct multiple practices over Falcon Stadium and the Academy from approximately 10:00 a.m. to 4 p.m. Falcon Stadium and surrounding parking lots are a restricted area on May 27.
As mandated by the Federal Aviation Administration, extensive road closures and traffic detours are planned on the Academy when the Thunderbirds are flying. For public safety, drivers are reminded not to stop along Interstate 25 or any roads on the Academy to watch the Thunderbirds. Stopping on Stadium Blvd is strictly prohibited.
On May 28, additional road closures and adjustments to traffic patterns are scheduled in support of guests’ arrival and departure from the Graduation Ceremony. The local community can expect traffic delays on I-25 near the Academy during that day. In addition, bicycle riding is prohibited on the Academy for the entire week of May 25-29.
The following roads will be closed May 27 from approximately 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and May 28 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
- Stadium Blvd. from Pine Dr. to North Gate Blvd
- Community Center Dr. from E. Douglass Dr. to Stadium Blvd
- Academy Dr. from Lot 6 to Stadium Blvd
- Parade Loop from the Academy Cemetery to Stadium Blvd.
- Santa Fe Trail from Tri-intersection Bridge to Parade Loop
Graduation is open to ticketed guests only.
Event Details
- The May 28 graduation ceremony begins at 9 a.m. and Falcon Stadium gates open at 5 a.m. Due to increased security and traffic deviations, early arrival is highly suggested.
- All guests are subject to security screening.
- Stadium entry will not be permitted after the ceremony begins.
- Graduation details including the schedule and permitted/restricted items can be found online on the Academy’s Graduation 2026 page.
- The ceremony will be livestreamed on the Academy’s official YouTube (link).
Base Access during 2026 Graduation Week
- When entering the gate, have all vehicle occupants’ identification ready for presentation.
- Valid ID (state drivers licenses or passport) is required for base access during graduation week.
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For more information, please contact U.S. Air Force Academy Strategic Communications at (719) 333- 7731 or email USAFA.media@us.af.mil