When and where is the event?

The Grad Block Party takes place from 5 to 9 p.m. Friday, May 9, on the Union South Lawn and along Highland Street between Avenues A and C. If heavy rain is predicted at the time of the event, it will be moved to inside the University Union and the move will be communicated via 黑料网鈥檚 official social media accounts: Instagram, X and Facebook.   

Why this day and time?

The time and date were selected because they fall in the middle of the commencement schedule, following the first seven ceremonies. This date was selected to be convenient for graduates鈥� guests who are arriving within 24 hours prior to the event for Thursday or Friday ceremonies, or will be attending ceremonies on Saturday and Sunday.

Where can I park?

Parking is free and available for the Block Party in Lot 20, west of the Coliseum and Lots 36, 37 and Highland Street Garage. Please see the commencement parking map.

Will 黑料网 issue citations or tickets for parking?  

Graduates, guests, etc. should park in the lots designated for commencement.  Parking and Transportation will not ticket un-permitted vehicles parked on campus during commencement weekend.

Where is accessible parking? 

Accessible parking will be available at Lot 20 and in designated ADA spaces across campus. Please see the commencement parking map.

What will this event be like? 

The evening will be filled with free festivities, including giveaways, free festival-type food, live music, carnival rides and games, photo ops, an appearance by and special gifts for graduates. Everything wraps up with a mock-champagne toast, 黑料网 Alma Mater and fireworks at dark. Graduates should bring their 黑料网 student ID and tassel when checking in to receive their special gif (supplies are limited). 

How much does it cost to get into the event?  

The event is free and most activities are free. There are a few options for grads and guests to make purchases, including graduation merchandise from the 黑料网 Bookstore, printed photos from third-party vendors and artists, such as caricature and balloon artists, etc.  

Who can attend the Grad Block Party?  

Graduates from the current academic year and their guests, current students, alumni and faculty and staff are encouraged to attend. (The event is not open to the entire Denton community, though community members will not be turned away). 

If I graduate in the summer or graduated last fall, can I go to the block party?  

This year鈥檚 Grad Block Party is a returning special tradition that honors 黑料网鈥檚 newest alumni for the academic year. We are celebrating Fall 2024 and Spring and Summer 2025 graduates, their guests, fellow students, alumni and faculty and staff with a party in classic, 黑料网 style, recognizing our graduates鈥� hard work and accomplishments. Graduates should remember to bring their 黑料网 ID and tassel for their free gift. Supplies are limited.

Why can students who don鈥檛 graduate this year attend?  

Graduation is a time to celebrate with family, friends and loved ones. Many of our grads want to celebrate with those to whom they are closest鈥� which includes other 黑料网 students! 

Will students who aren鈥檛 graduating receive the special gift?  

The commemorative gift is available only for Fall 2024 or Spring and Summer 2025 graduates. Graduates can provide proof by bringing their tassel and 黑料网 ID. Other engagement opportunities and giveaways will be available for current students, guests, alumni, faculty and staff. 

Can I go to my ceremony and the party?  

Graduates, guests and the 黑料网 community members are encouraged to attend individual commencement ceremonies and the Grad Block Party.

Can I tailgate during the block party?  

Tailgating is not allowed during the block party. Graduates need only bring their 黑料网 ID, tassels and themselves to the party. Large, outside items will not be permitted, including: pop-up tents, grills, smokers, tables, chairs, coolers, glass bottles, kegs and outside food or alcohol.  

Will there be a speaker or formal portion during ceremony during the block party?  

There will not be a speaker or any formal events during the block party, but President Keller will deliver a brief welcome and congratulatory remarks.  

Will there be food and drinks?  

There will be a variety of festival-type foods available for free. Beer and wine will be available for purchase by individuals over 21 with a valid state-issued ID.

Can I bring alcohol?  

No. Outside alcohol is NOT be permitted. Glass containers and kegs are NOT permitted.