Weather & Safety

Your graduation is too important to let a little rain put a damper on the celebration! However, the Commencement ceremony can be affected by severe weather, including delays to the start of the event. There are precautions in place to keep everyone safe and comfortable. Understand the safety plan and where to get updates so you can adjust your plans and keep the celebration going forward.

• The weather in May can be unpredictable in central Indiana, so check the forecast in advance.
• In the case of rain, free IU ponchos will be provided to graduates
  participating in the ceremony. Guests should bring rainwear or ponchos to
  the ceremony.
• Remember: umbrellas are not allowed to ensure that every guest is comfortable and has a good view of the ceremony.
• Lightning will result in the immediate suspension of the ceremony, and everyone will be directed indoors to nearby campus buildings.
• Severe weather may cause a delay in the ceremony start time. Check this website and social media channels for details.

Indiana University operates Commencement venues in accordance with best practices for guest safety as recommended by Indiana University Public Safety.

• Guests are permitted to bring a clear bag that is approximately the size of a one-gallon freezer bag or a small clutch approximately the size of a hand. Diaper bags and those containing medical necessities are permitted. Bags are inspected by trained security staff.
• To ensure that all attendees have an unobscured viewing of the ceremony and graduates, signs, flags, placards, and banners are not permitted. Additionally, packages, wrapped gifts, noisemakers, weapons, balloons, and outside food and beverage are prohibited.

This policy reflects similar policies at universities and professional venues around the country. For more information, contact iupsadmn@iu.edu.