Entering PPG Paints Arena
All entrances will open at 12:30 p.m. and are fully accessible. Please refer to the information below for designated guest and graduate entry points.
- Graduate Entrance
Graduates are to enter the Highmark Gate ONLY. Arrive fully dressed in regalia with Name Announcement Card printed and in hand. This is your ticket to enter PPG Paints Arena.
The Highmark Gate is located near the corner of Centre Avenue and Logan Street.- Guest Entrances
Guests may enter either the EQT Gate or F.N.B. Gate.
The EQT Gate is located on the corner of Fifth Avenue and Washington Place.
The F.N.B. Gate is located near the corner of Fullerton Street and Centre Avenue.
Limited guest entrance gates may open at the Highmark Gate
Commencement Safety
For the safety and enjoyment of all attendees, please review the list of items not permitted at the University of Pittsburgh’s university-wide Undergraduate Commencement Ceremony.
We are excited to celebrate the achievements of our graduates. Thank you for helping us ensure a safe and stellar commencement experience for everyone.
PPG Paints Arena Bag Policy
No bags, including clear bags of any kind, will be permitted in PPG Paints Arena.
- What is allowed
- Wristlets or Wallets (no larger than 4" x 6" x 1.5")
- Compact umbrellas (no golf size umbrellas)
- Cameras (point and shoot only; no detachable lenses)
- Exceptions
Exceptions will be made after inspection for the following items. Be sure to enter the designated screening door at each gate.
- Medical Bags
- Diaper Bags
- Camera bags
- Prohibited Items
- Golf umbrellas / non-compact umbrellas
- Outside food and beverages
- Sticks, poles, flags and signs of any kind
- Illegal drugs or alcohol (opened or unopened)
- Noisemakers of any kind, including air horns
- Laser pointers
- Weapons of any kind, including OC spray, pepper spray and mace
- E-cigarettes and vapes
- Non-ADA compliant service and comfort animals
- Paint, glitter, markers, confetti or streamers
- Helium balloons, gifts, and gift bags
- Additional Safety Procedures
- PPG Paints Arena reserves the right to inspect all bags, purses and items.
- To ensure everyone’s safety, wanding and / or detectors will be conducted for each guest entering the facilities. You will not be granted access to the facility if you refuse this procedure.
