W&M Commencement 2026: Key Dates
William & Mary's 2026 Commencement ceremony takes place the evening of Friday, May 15, 2026. Most families arrive Thursday evening or Friday morning and depart Saturday or Sunday. The surrounding days see heavy demand for lodging within walking distance of campus.
The Commencement ceremony is held in Kaplan Arena, with additional events (diploma ceremonies, departmental receptions) spread across campus Friday and Saturday. Parking on campus is available but limited, which makes staying within walking distance especially valuable.
Lodging Within Walking Distance
The blocks immediately north of the W&M campus, along North Henry Street, North Boundary Street, and the surrounding residential streets, are home to a small number of independent inns and guest houses. These properties, typically occupying restored Victorian and colonial-era homes, put you within a 10 to 15 minute walk of campus and Merchants Square.
At Armistead House, we are about a 10-minute walk from the Wren Building and Kaplan Arena, and just a few minutes from Colonial Williamsburg and Duke of Gloucester Street. Guests park once on arrival and walk to all events. Private on-site parking, en-suite bathrooms, and contactless check-in are included. View our rooms and availability.
Because these are small properties with limited rooms, they book out early for Commencement. If your student is graduating in May, booking eight to twelve months ahead is reasonable. Some families book as soon as the academic calendar is published and rooms open up.
Richmond Road Hotels (1 to 3 Miles)
The Richmond Road corridor has the most room inventory in Williamsburg. National chains including Marriott, Hilton, and Holiday Inn operate along this stretch. They are further away and you will need to drive and park for campus events, but availability lasts longer than at walkable properties. Expect rates to increase as May approaches.
Where to Eat After the Ceremony
Restaurants near Merchants Square fill quickly on Commencement weekend. Fat Canary is the top fine-dining choice; reserve at least a few months ahead of time. Amber Ox and Casa Pearl are strong alternatives with a more relaxed atmosphere. Le Yaca is another popular option with an established reputation. For a full overview of nearby dining, see our restaurant recommendations.
Planning Tips
Book early. Commencement is consistently the most competitive weekend for Williamsburg lodging. Eight to Twelve months ahead is not too early for walkable properties.
Plan for two nights. Most families stay Thursday-to-Saturday or Friday-to-Sunday. A two-night stay gives you time for the ceremony, diploma events, and a celebratory dinner without rushing.
Make dinner reservations. Reserve as early as you book your room.
Check the academic calendar. W&M publishes the official Commencement schedule on their Commencement page. Bookmark it for updates on ceremony times and logistics.
Book for Commencement Weekend
Armistead House is a less than 10-minute walk from campus with free parking and contactless check-in. Check availability for May 14 to 16, 2026.