For the first time in three years, Portland State University will celebrate graduation in person, with four commencement ceremonies taking place from Fri., June 10-Sun., June 12.
Whether you’re a visiting parent — or maybe your kid didn’t fly too far from the nest — we’ve got some tips to make the weekend slightly less chaotic. Firstly, here is the schedule.
- College of the Arts Commencement Ceremony | Fri., June 10 | 9 a.m.-11 a.m. | Viking Pavilion at the Peter W. Stott Center, 930 SW Hall St.
- The School of Business and College of Education Commencement Ceremony | Sat., June 11 | 5-8 p.m. | Providence Park, 1844 SW Morrison St.
- Professional Schools Commencement Ceremony | Sun., June 12 | 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. | Providence Park, 1844 SW Morrison St.
- College of Liberal Arts and Sciences Commencement Ceremony | Sun., June 12 | 3-6 p.m. | Providence Park, 1844 SW Morrison St.
Students, don’t forget that before they can cheer you on, your friends and family will need tickets. If they’re unable to make it, each event will be livestreamed with a recording available afterward online.
Congestion in downtown is a given, so attendees are encouraged to use public transportation. The Blue and Red lines have a light rail station at Providence Park, and riders can access PSU’s south campus via the Yellow/Orange/Green lines.
And now for the main event — here are some spots to try for the obligatory celebration meal.
🍻 Beers with the ‘rents
Kingston Sports Bar & Grill | 2021 SW Morrison St. | 9 a.m.-2:30 a.m. | This classic spot for suds is just steps away from Providence Park and open early for breakfast or late-night libations, with fare like omelets, burgers, and sandwiches.
🦞 Seas get degrees
Southpark Seafood | 901 SW Salmon St. | 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m./9 p.m. on Sunday | Oysters and other tasty fruits de mer are served in a chic, modern setting next to the South Park Blocks; the restaurant can also accommodate large parties.
👨👩👧👦 The whole fam damily is in town
Deschutes Brewery Portland Public House | 210 NW 11th Ave. | 11:30 a.m.-11 p.m./10 p.m. on Sunday | Give visiting loved ones the Portland experience of 26 craft beers on tap + shareable appetizers in a space that has room for all of the cousins, aunts, uncles, and grandparents.