Class of 2026 · USAFA

The Moment Arrives

Four years of grit, sacrifice, and discovery — culminating in one unforgettable week. Here's everything you need to be there for it.

Graduation Week

Parade & Commissioning Wednesday, May 27, 2026

Graduation Ceremony Thursday, May 28, 2026

The Graduation Parade

7:30 – 10:30 AM · Wednesday, May 27

The day opens with cadets in full formation on Stillman Field — a tradition over six decades in the making. Bring your camera; this one's for the family album.

Location

Stillman Field

Attire

Spring or business casual. Comfortable walking shoes are mandatory. Dress in layers — Colorado mornings can be chilly.

Tips

Arrive early; seating fills fast. Bring clear water bottles, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Expect significant walking from parking to the field.

Commissioning Ceremonies

Afternoon & Evening · Wednesday, May 27

The moment your cadet raises their right hand and becomes a Second Lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force or Space Force. Goosebumps guaranteed.

Find Your Commissioning

Select your cadet's squadron to see when and where they'll commission.

Cadet Squadron

Location

Varies by squadron — use the tool above

Attire

Business formal or black tie for guests

Tips

Allow plenty of transit time between the morning Parade and afternoon or evening Commissioning. Note your indoor backup location if your squadron is scheduled outside.

The Graduation Ceremony

9:00 AM – 1:00 PM · Thursday, May 28

The main event. Falcon Stadium fills with 30,000 family members, friends, and dignitaries. Caps fly. Thunderbirds roar overhead. Four years become a lifetime.

Location

Falcon Stadium

Attire

Layers are vital. Weather can shift from intense sun to rain or wind quickly. Comfortable shoes recommended.

Tips

Expect heavy traffic and arrive hours early — gates open at 6 AM. Follow the stadium packing list exactly to avoid being turned away.

Important — only clear bags are allowed for stadium entry.

Stadium Packing List

Clear bag (required)
Sunscreen
Chapstick
Hand fans (if hot)
Poncho
Mints
Snacks — trail mix (Permitted in one clear ziploc bag)
Sealed water bottle

Shop the Packing List

What To Do

Between ceremonies, take your cadet somewhere they've been dreaming about for months. Visit our Wild Blue Experiences guide for cadet-favorite restaurants and local activities around Colorado Springs.

Cadet Gift Ideas

Custom engraved keepsakes
Shadow boxes for commissioning memorabilia
Travel gear for their 60-day vacation

Party Planning

Highly-rated party essentials for an Air Force colors themed celebration, sourced directly from Amazon.

Shop the Full Party Package

Share Your Cadet's Journey

Download our editable template, fill in your cadet's specific event times, and share with your party. Print as a pamphlet and tuck into a clear goodie bag with your stadium essentials — everyone arrives prepared.

Text in red is for you — type in names and dates, then change the text to black for a polished, print-ready booklet. Best edited on the desktop, not mobile.