Ceremony Information for Guests

VIU holds convocation ceremonies in the gymnasium at our Nanaimo campus. It is bleacher-style seating. Please consider bringing a small cushion for your comfort. There ceremonies are about two hours long.

Graduating students request guest tickets when submitting their application to graduate.

Tickets will be checked. No one will be admitted without tickets. Ensure your graduate gives you your tickets.

Due to Fire Code regulations, every guest must have a ticket (including infants).

The alternate viewing location is Building 210, Room 275.

Watch the livestream: https://www.youtube.com/@viuchannel 

Guests are invited to join their graduates for photos and light snacks following the ceremony. The main reception will take place after each ceremony in front of Building 210, extending to Royal Bank Plaza in front of the top of Building 200. These will be somewhat weather-dependent. 

Please see the map below for a stair-free route to the receptions. You are also welcome to move your car to Lot C if that is easier. 

View a stair-free route to the reception

Free parking will be available at most VIU parking locations on convocation days. Guests with significant mobility challenges can be dropped off on the south side of the gymnasium. Accessible parking is available in Lot Q accessed from Fourth Street.

See map below.

Guests in wheelchairs or requiring special seating arrangements, should have their graduate email Convocation@viu.ca or AccessibilityServices@viu.ca well before the ceremony date to make arrangements.

The VIU Residence Hotel offers affordable short-term accommodation for visitors to the city of Nanaimo.

Our hotel features a variety of room options to suit every need, including four-bedroom apartments, two- bedroom suites and single rooms. Enjoy spectacular views, free guest parking and campus amenities! We look forward to welcoming you during convocation.

Located in the heart of downtown Nanaimo, across the street from the waterfront, the Coast Bastion is one of the best hotels in Nanaimo with large, newly renovated rooms, Minnoz Restaurant + Lounge and access to a wide range of amenities. To learn more about the discounted rate and make your booking, use this link: book.passkey.com/e/50807779
 
Travel in easy comfort on the newest way to travel to Nanaimo from downtown Vancouver. The Hullo Ferry departs from the Vancouver Convention Centre and arrives in Nanaimo’s centrally located port only 70 minutes later. This fast, convenient and easy way to get to Nanaimo also has a shuttle bus available to take you directly downtown. Use code: VIUGRAD20. Code can be used between May 1 and June 17 for sailings taking place June 10 to June 17.

The Commencement Group will be on site in the gymnasium on ceremony days with a selection of bouquets and other gifts. You can also order ahead of time to guarantee you get the colour or size you want.

Visit the Commencement Group's contact and FAQ page.