Downtown Grand Rapids will be festive (and busy!) The Grand Rapids annual Santa Parade will be held on December 7, 2024, starting at 5 p.m., followed by the tree lighting ceremony at Rosa Park circle at 6:45 p.m. While this should not significantly impact parking for Commencement guests, we want to make guests and participants aware that foot traffic and vehicle traffic could be heavy after the ceremony.
Parking
We highly recommend allowing for extra travel time for delays due to heavy traffic and road construction. Parking is available in city lots near Van Andel Arena. View downtown Grand Rapids parking options.
Accessible Parking:
Accessible parking is available in all City owned and operated parking ramps and surface parking lots. Each lot has accessible designated spaces, including van-accessible spaces, for vehicles displaying a current state-issued disability placard or license plate. Accessible spaces are filled on a first-come, first-served basis, so please plan accordingly. Please refer to the Directions & Parking tab for locations, availability and additional information regarding City parking. City of Grand Rapids Parking Services can be contacted at 616-456-3290.
The drop off area for the ADA accessible entrance is on Ottawa Ave. at the southwest entrance of the Arena.
Accessibility Assistance
- Closed captioning will be provided.
- ADA accessible seating will be available. Learn more on the Van Andel Arena website.
- Should you need additional accommodations or assistance, please email [email protected].
After the Ceremony
- Graduates will recess out of the southwest doors out onto Ottawa Ave.
- Please make a plan with your guests to meet them outside of the Van Andel Arena. There will not be an opportunity to meet up with your guests inside of the Arena.
Commencement is coordinated by the Division of Student Affairs of Grand Valley State University.