Friday, May 21

10 a.m. — Commencement Rehearsal
(required for seniors)
Lang Performing Arts Center
Seniors can use their OneCard to pick up Commencement tickets for their families in the LPAC lobby after rehearsal.

11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Senior Brunch 
(for graduating class only)
405 Elm Avenue
Reception hosted by Vice President for Student Affairs.

4 – 7:30 p.m. Some Academic Department Receptions
Various locations (consult your department)
Gatherings for seniors and their families.

8 p.m. Last Collection with Candle-lighting Ceremony
Scott Outdoor Amphitheater
This tradition includes a talk by a faculty member and a student chosen by the senior class. 
Families and friends are welcome to attend.

Saturday, May 22

10 a.m. – 1 p.m. Baccalaureate Brunch 
(open to all seniors and guests)
Dining Center
Complimentary buffet meal.

1:30 p.m. Phi Beta Kappa
(Students learn of their selection on Thursday evening May 21)
Lang Performing Arts Center (LPAC)
Initiation of new members of Phi Beta Kappa.  All are welcome.

2:45 p.m. Baccalaureate procession forms
Wearing caps and gowns, seniors line up in front of Parrish.

3 p.m. Baccalaureate 
(no tickets required)
Scott Outdoor Amphitheater
Baccalaureate is intended to touch upon the moral and spiritual roots of the educational process and encourage commitment to a more just world. The ceremony includes a speaker, several moments of silence in observance of our Quaker tradition, and an inspirational reading. All are welcome.

4 – 7:30 p.m. Some Academic Department Receptions
Various locations (consult your department)
Gatherings for seniors and their families.

5 p.m. Swattie Send-Off
Swarthmore Town Center
A celebration of the Class of 2026 including food trucks and live music.

9:15 Fireworks 
Cunningham Fields

Sunday, May 23 Commencement Day

11:30 a.m.-12:45 p.m. Senior Lunch 
Complimentary light lunch open to all seniors and guests.

12-1:15 p.m. Rose Selection 
A Swarthmore tradition where Arboretum staff members assist seniors in selecting roses to wear on their gowns.

1:15 p.m. Commencement Procession Forms
Seniors wear caps and gowns.

2 p.m. Commencement Ceremony
The Commencement Ceremony will be held, rain or shine.  Seating and parking may be prearranged for people with special needs; please contact Susan Smythe, ssmythe1@swarthmore.edu, for details.

*listed times are close approximations and may be adjusted closer to the event.

Monday, May 24

8 a.m. Residence halls close