Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions about the Spring Candlelight Ceremony
Q: When and where will the Spring Commencement Eve Candlelight Ceremony take place?
A: The ceremony will occur on Saturday, May 9, 2026 at 9:00 p.m. on the Oval in front of Thompson Library. If inclement weather is expected, the ceremony may be moved indoors to the Archie Griffin Grand Ballroom in the Ohio Union
Q: Who may attend the Candlelight Ceremony?
A: Though the event is intended for graduating undergraduate, graduate, and professional students and their guests, other members of the Ohio State community are welcome and encouraged to attend. It is not necessary to RSVP, and there is no limit on the number of guests who may attend. Please note that if the ceremony is moved indoors due to inclement weather, there is limited seating, which will be available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Q: Where should I park?
A: Consult the CampusParc website for information about paid event parking. The closest parking garage to the event site is the Ohio Union South Garage.
Q: What time should I arrive?
A: Guests are encouraged to arrive to the event site by 8:45 p.m. to get a good vantage point. The ceremony is scheduled to begin at 9:00 p.m.
Q: How long does the ceremony last?
A: The ceremony itself is expected to last less than an hour.
Q: Will there be seating at the ceremony?
A: If weather permits the ceremony to be held in its outdoor location in front of Thompson Library on the Oval, most guests will typically stand or bring their own chairs or blankets to sit on. A very limited number of folding chairs will be available upon request on-site for those with accessibility needs.
If the ceremony must move indoors due to inclement weather, there will be seating provided in the Archie Griffin Grand Ballroom at the Ohio Union for all guests until the room has been filled.
Q: How will I know if the ceremony has been moved to the Ohio Union for inclement weather?
A: This website will be updated if the location must change from the Oval. You can also follow @ouab and @studentlifeosu on Instagram for event updates.