Commencement Exercises
for the Class of 2026
Saturday, May 23, 2026
Marquee events to include:
FRIDAY, MAY 22
- 9:00 a.m. Annual Meeting of Phi Beta Kappa and induction ceremony.
- 11:00 a.m. Seniors Concert
- Various times. Departmental & Academic Program Open Houses. Schedule available in April
- 4:30 p.m. The Baccalaureate Ceremony. This special event marks the official close of the academic year and the coming together of graduates and their families. It features remarks by President Safa Zaki, a speech by a graduating senior, and a keynote address.
- 5:30 p.m.-6:45 p.m. Down East Lobster Bake. A Bowdoin tradition! For members of the graduating class and their guests. Ticket information TBA.
SATURDAY, MAY 23
- 8:00 a.m. Guest seating opens on the Main Quad.
- 9:15 a.m. It is recommended that guests be at their seats to view the procession.
- 9:20 a.m. Commencement Processional begins at Baxter House and marches through the quad.
- 10:00 a.m. The 221st Commencement Exercises of Bowdoin College. The Commencement ceremony will be held outside on the Terrace of the Bowdoin College Museum of Art, except in the case of severe weather. If rain is forecasted, come prepared with an umbrella and other rain gear. No tickets are necessary for the outdoor ceremony, and you may bring as many guests as you wish. In the case of severe weather, graduates will be able to invite four guests to the inside ceremony.
- Noon-2:00 p.m. Commencement Luncheon for members of the graduating class and their guests. Ticketing information TBA.
Contact Us
If you have additional questions, please contact the Office of Events and Summer Programs at events@bowdoin.edu or (207) 725-3433.
