What to know about going to Leader Bank Pavilion ahead of Northeastern’s commencement
This is the first year the university is holding commencement events at the outdoor amphitheater in Boston’s Seaport neighborhood.
Northeastern University will hold commencements and college celebrations – many of which will include keynote speakers – at Leader Bank Pavilion, a 5,000-seat outdoor amphitheatre by the water in Boston’s Seaport neighborhood.
This marks the first time the university is using this space for these events. The following information provided by the Academic Ceremonies team aims to ensure a seamless experience for graduates and guests.
For more information, please visit Northeastern’s commencement website.
Before you leave:
- The address of Leader Bank Pavilion is 290 Northern Avenue, Boston, Massachusetts 02210. Double-check the address in your GPS or app before departing as Leader Bank Pavilion is close to Leader Bank’s Seaport bank branch at 48 Northern Avenue.
- There is no on-site parking at Leader Bank Pavilion. The university encourages graduates and guests to use ride share or public transportation.
- If taking public transportation: The MBTA Silver Line’s World Trade Center Stop is located 0.3 miles from Leader Bank Pavilion.
- If driving: Check area garages, including Ora Garage, 302 Northern Ave. lot, Seaport Hotel Garage and the South Boston Waterfront Transportation Center. Nearby hotels and restaurants also offer valet services. Fees and availability vary. Guests can also use apps like SpotHero, Park Whiz and ParkMobile to find and secure parking spots in advance.
- Each event will be approximately 2 hours long, so plan your day accordingly.
Arrival information:
Traffic in the Seaport neighborhood can be heavy and unpredictable, especially on weekends and weekday mornings and afternoons, which coincide with some of the Northeastern commencement events. Please allow yourself extra time for travel.
- Leader Bank Pavilion is an outdoor, tented venue. The stage, seating and student line-up area are covered by the tent, but the concourse which leads to amenities, restrooms and concessions is uncovered. Please dress according to the weather.
- Graduates should plan to arrive at the venue 90 minutes prior to the start of their ceremony or celebration to begin lining up.
- Guests should plan to arrive 60 minutes before the event’s start.
Entry, security and accessibility
- Graduates should enter through the graduate security check-in located to the far left of the main entrance. This will be marked with signage and staff will be present to direct graduates.
- Graduates and faculty should arrive wearing their cap, gown, alumni pin and (for graduate/doctoral ceremonies and celebrations) hood. For more information on regalia, visit Northeastern’s commencement website.
- Graduates must forward their tickets to guests to print or download ahead of time. Only those with tickets will be allowed to enter. Re-entry is not permitted.
- All guests and graduates are subject to security screening.
Leader Bank Pavilion is an accessible venue. Guests needing accommodation should speak with staff upon arrival. For more information, visit Leader Bank Pavilion’s website.
Editor’s Picks
Prohibited items
- Large bags, backpacks or non-clear bags exceeding size limits (12” x 12” x 6”)
- Outside food/beverages (except one sealed 16 oz. water bottle)
- Umbrellas that do not collapse
- Wrapped gifts (Unwrapped gifts and flowers are allowed.)
- Alcohol, drugs or illegal substances
- Weapons of any kind (including firearms, knives or tools)
- Balloons, banners, signs or non-Northeastern-issued flags
- Noisemakers, drones, laser pointers, professional audio/visual equipment or selfie sticks
- Hard-sided coolers, glass/metal containers or hydration packs
- Fireworks or incendiary devices
- Costumes, masks, or any item deemed unsafe by event staff, including clothing deemed disruptive, hateful or offensive
Failure to comply may result in denial of entry or removal from the venue.
Bag Storage
- Bag check is available for graduates and guests. The bag check is located outside the main gates and costs $5 per item.
- Bags exceeding size limits (12” x 12” x 6”) must be checked or returned to your vehicle
- Graduates are strongly encouraged not to bring personal items.
Professional Photos
Professional photographers will capture your stage moment. Photo purchase information will be sent to your Northeastern email from GradImages after your College Celebration.
Livestream
All celebrations will be livestreamed for guests unable to attend in person: https://news.northeastern.edu/commencement-2026/
