Visiting Campus
Bates looks forward to seeing parents on campus throughout the year and welcomes your visit any time.
Mount David Summit
Friday, March 29, 2013
The Mount David Summit is the annual campus-wide celebration of student academic achievement, highlighting undergraduate research; student creative work in art, dance, theater, music and film/video; projects conducted in the context of academic courses; and service-learning. The Summit spotlights the rich intellectual life of the college.
Commencement
Sunday, May 26, 2013
This is a very important time in the lives of graduating students and their families. The college is bustling with activities, including the student-designed Baccalaureate service, receptions and honor ceremonies, and the Commencement exercises, all of which capture the historical, ceremonial and traditional elements of this memorable weekend.
An updated schedule of weekend events is posted on the Commencement website each spring.
Future Commencement dates are:
- Sunday, May 25, 2014
- Sunday, May 31, 2015
Travel Tips
Here are some tips to help you be as prepared and comfortable as possible when you come to visit campus and/or tour Maine:
Reservations
Make reservations for overnight accommodations and dining as early as you can. Local
lodgings and restaurants fill up quickly, particularly during Parents & Family and Commencement weekends. Early reservations are encouraged.
Getting here, Staying here, Eating here…
For information about getting to campus, getting around Maine, and hotels and restaurants, visit our “About Bates” location page
Weather
Keep in mind something that longtime Mainers say: “If you don’t like the weather, wait five minutes.”
The days around Orientation and Commencement can be warm and muggy, but the evenings are usually cool. Pack lighter-weight clothing for daytime and something more substantial for evening. The weather during Parents & Family Weekend, in early fall, can be brisk. Be sure to bring a sweater, light coat and long pants.