All bags are subject to search by Pavilion security staff upon entrance to the ceremony. We encourage you to bring as little as possible to minimize waiting time. Stroller parking will be available.

As a reminder, the Pavilion does not allow banners, flags, or anything that will obstruct sightlines into the venue.

To help the event run smoothly, we ask that you and your guests review the Pavilion Guidelines and “Know Before You Go” FAQ in advance of our ceremony.

• Clear bags only (12″ x 6″ x 12″ max size)
• Clutch bags up to 6″ x 9″ (do not need to be clear)
• Diaper bags are allowed but subject to search

Leader Bank Pavilion strives to make the venue inclusive and accessible. There is an accessible drop-off area located at the Pavilion entrance for guests with physical disabilities and mobility impairments.

View more information on venue accessibility

MassArt encourages guests to use Public Transportation whenever possible. Take the subway, commuter rail or bus to South Station and connect to Silver Line Waterfront service. The Pavilion is located one block away from the Silver Line bus stop.

• Visit MBTA’s Trip Planner

Please see the venue’s “Plan Your Visit” information for directions and parking information.

Leader Bank Pavilion does not offer on site parking. However, affordable parking is available for Leader Bank Pavilion patrons at the South Boston Waterfront Transportation Center, located within an 8 minute walk of the Pavilion.

Address: 503 Congress St, Boston, MA 02210
Hours of Operation: Open 24 hours, 7 days a week

Guest lodging will be available at a discounted rate in MassArt’s Treehouse Residence Hall.

View MassArt’s 2025 Commencement lodging rates.

For hotel accommodations, we recommend booking accommodations in Boston’s Seaport District.

Commencement will continue in the case of bad weather. The Leader Bank Pavilion may cancel or alter events if severe weather is expected. Please check the venue’s social media for updates on event status.

For more information please take a look at the venue guidelines.

There is no limit to the number of friends and family you wish to invite – just be sure that all guests have their own ticket in hand.

Our ceremony lasts approximately 2 hours, and will end around 3:00pm. We encourage you not to make any plans until after 4:00pm to allow time for photos and for all guests to exit the venue.

No. You do not need to let us know that you’re coming, or if you don’t plan to attend. We have your name on our list, so just show up and check in!

All candidates are encouraged, but not required, to wear cap and gown at Commencement. If you choose not to wear a gown, that’s OK, too! However, please note that full face coverings (e.g. costume masks) or other clothing that completely obscures your face are prohibited. Medical/surgical masks are allowed.

As little as possible. There is no secure storage available at the Pavilion, and anything you bring with you must be carried at all times. Items that are expressly prohibited include, but are not limited to: weapons of any kind (real or replica), alcohol, illegal drugs/substances, glass containers, cans, hard sided/large coolers, large or oversized bags/back-packs, laser pointers, animals (except service animals) and fireworks. A full list of venue guidelines can be found here.

Over the summer. Diplomas are not given out on stage because final grades are not submitted until the end of May. You will receive an email from the Registrar’s Office in early June confirming your graduation, as well as where you would like it shipped – keep an eye on your inbox!

Please email us at commencement@massart.edu, we are more than happy to help.