5 Things to do Around Commencement

Posted by PR Lab, guest blogger of Boston University

The semester is almost over, and senior students are already getting ready to graduate. The warmer weather makes it one of the best times of year to visit Massachusetts. If you  are planning to attend a commencement in May or June, you should start planning as soon as possible especially if you are visiting from or have guests coming from abroad. Also, don’t forget to make reservations at local restaurants to celebrate after the commencement ceremony with your family and friends, as they often fill up weeks ahead of the big day…
If your family and/or friends are coming to your graduation, ask them to arrive 2 to 3 days before the ceremony so you have the time to show them around the town your college is in. Since the weather is going to be nice, sunny, and warm, you have many options for activities.

Show them around town

Photo source: MOTT flickr

If you live in Boston, take a duck tour around the city with your family. This will be an excellent opportunity to learn more about MA and see new places and views. However, if you are not in Boston, you can rent a car or get the train and explore your town, or travel to other places within Massachusetts such as Boston, Cambridge, Cape Cod, the Berkshires and more.

Celebrate!

Photo source: MOTT flickr

During the days of the commencement ceremony, which will most likely be on a weekend, you can start your day with a brunch before the event. Check out a recent blog we did on great brunch spots. After graduation you can plan to have lunch or a small gathering with your family, friends, and fellow graduates in local restaurants close to your college. You can find suggestions about dining on our website. Many students plan a group lunch after graduation, book an entire restaurant and then share the cost. This is a great way to celebrate together with your friends and meet their families! Be sure to plan ahead and make a reservation!

Party, Party, Party!

You do not want to leave your college years behind you without celebrating your last days with friends in the town you have lived for 4 years! During the commencement weekend, explore some of Massachusetts’ best taverns and bars, and look for special events commemorating the weekend. Cities, like Boston, have an exciting nightlife, and showing family and friends visiting from out of town your favorite spots could make for a fun evening. Don’t forget to keep in touch with your fellow classmates to inform you about any upcoming events. This is the time for you to celebrate with friends and family!

 Shop

Photo source: MOTT flickr

If you’re staying in town for a few days after graduating, make sure to visit some of the great shopping options Massachusetts offers. Boston has Faneuil Hall Marketplace and Newbury Street, and there are shopping malls, such as Natick Mall, throughout the state. The stores have great pre-summer sales in May and June, which also makes it the perfect time to shop for a new outfit to wear commencement weekend before the event. For even more shopping ideas, check out our blog dedicated to the topic.

Vacation

Photo source: MOTT flickr

Many students plan a vacation after graduating, together with their family or friends. With destinations ranging from beaches, to mountains, to dynamic cities, you can plan a post-grad trip without having to leave the state. Make sure to check our website for suggestions!
Whatever you do, have fun, take lots of pictures, and if you post on social media don’t forget to tag us @visitma on Twitter and #VisitMA on Instagram.

TOPICS: Massachusetts Commencements