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West Virginia University GradFest GradFest

Always Mountaineers

Wednesday, May 13, 2026
11:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.
Downtown Campus (in front of the Mountainlair, Woodburn Circle and E.Moore Hall lawn) 

Free Student and Volunteer Parking: Second level of the Mountainlair Parking Garage and in the ST-10 Lot on May 13 from 10:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.

GradFest is back! On May 13, grab your cap and gown and join your fellow Mountaineers on the Downtown area of campus where we'll have activities, giveaways, entertainment and some special guests throughout the day. Grab your first WVU Alumni t-shirt to mark your upcoming achievement.Take advantage of free grad photos at Woodburn Circle and Oglebay Plaza dressed in your Commencement regalia. Bring your friends and family and get the festivities started early ahead of your big weekend!

Gradfest 2026

The following will take place the entire time: 

  • Free individual or group Graduation photos in Woodburn Circle. Register here.
  • Grab your first official alumni t-shirt at the WVU Alumni truck.
  • Music provided by U92 The Moose. 
  • The WVU Purpose Center will host a gratitude station where you can stop by and write a note of appreciation to your favorite professor, staff member or fellow student. Stop by for some tips and resources from a Gallup Certified Strengths Coach on how to use your top five CliftonStrengths® when transitioning to life after college. These tips can help you be mindful of your natural talents and abilities so you can lean on them during this transitional time in your life in both your career and wellbeing.
  • First Ascent, a two-year fellowship program for recent WVU graduates interested in staying in-state through the power of hybrid and remote work opportunities, will be at GradFest all day!
  • Campus Recreation will be available to discuss alumni memberships, options for graduating seniors who will remain in Morgantown for a few additional months, and any students who will continue living in Morgantown for the foreseeable future. 
  • Still need a picture with the Mountaineer Mascot? He’ll be there!
  • Where are you headed? Share your future location on our alumni map and learn more about your nearest alumni chapter.
  • Remember the banner you signed years ago at Monday Night Lights? Come see it and if you didn’t get to sign it, now is your chance!
  • The WVU Bookstore will be hosting a pop-up shop outside near the Mountainlair featuring alumni gear and discounted products. 
  • Still need to decorate your cap? All kinds of supplies will be available for you to prepare for the big day!
  • What advice would you give to incoming first-year students? Reflect on what you wish you had known during your first year or share tips you found helpful throughout your college experience. Additionally, upcoming graduates can meet with Career Services representatives to learn about the specific services available for alumni. Be sure to discuss your plans after graduation while you're there! You'll have the opportunity to complete the First Destination Survey, which offers a chance to win a $100 Visa gift card. 
  • Stop by and write an encouraging note to children involved in CASA for Kids of Monongalia and Preston Counties.
  • Contact:  StudentLife@mail.wvu.edu