GRADUATION GUIDELINES FROM THE FLORENCE CENTER: Congratulations to all of the graduates! Below are guidelines for friends and family of graduates.
Thought for the Day. . . Remember Common Courtesy
Many graduates are celebrating this important occasion. Cooperation from parents and family members with the Florence Center staff and school administration is greatly appreciated. Instructions from staff are for the safety and enjoyment of all guests, and to ensure that the graduation ceremony runs smoothly.
ADA PARKING and SEATING: Please plan to arrive early if you need access to a space. We also recommend dropping off guests who have accessibility needs at the door with family/friends to avoid a lengthy walk. Priority seating is provided for guests with wheelchairs, canes, scooters, etc. If guests require special seating accommodation, please inform the school administration at least a week in advance of the graduation.
ARRIVAL TIME: Please arrive on time. Graduations begin promptly at their scheduled time. We advise arriving an hour in advance to get the best seat available.
CELL PHONES / MOBILE DEVICES: As a courtesy, please silence cell phones and other mobile devices for the duration of the ceremony.
FOOD & BEVERAGES: To preserve the Florence Center for future generations to enjoy, outside food or drink is not permitted. This includes snacks and chewing gum.
PARKING INFORMATION: Parking is available on a first-come, first-serve basis at Florence Center. Cars have been towed in the past when our guests have parked at neighboring Please remember we are not responsible for you or your family’s vehicle if you park at any nearby business.
PHOTOGRAPHY: Guests may take photos from their seats. Guests are prohibited from walking down to the floor to take photos due to Fire Code regulations. Photography services are provided at all graduations.
- TRIPODS are not permitted.
- SELFIE STICKS are not permitted.
SEATS / SEATING:
- Guests are not permitted to hold seats for other guests who arrive later.
- Guests may not put feet on seats or stand on chairs or armrests.
- Graduates must return to their seats after they receive their diplomas.
- After the ceremony, we ask all guests to wait at their seats until all graduates exit the building before making their way outside. You will be able to meet your graduate in a gathering area outside.
SECURITY CHECK: For the safety of all guests, inspections by Florence Center Security Personnel may be done as guests enter the Florence Center.
SMOKING / VAPING: Smoking, including vaping and e-cigarettes, is prohibited inside Florence Center and within 25 feet of its doors per state regulations.
STROLLERS / WALKERS / MOBILITY DEVICES: Fire Code prohibits strollers, walkers, and other mobility devices from obstructing aisles. Ushers will assist guests in stowing these items at the back of the Florence Center or at Coat Check. Florence Center is not responsible for the care of these items. We recommend leaving them in your car if possible.
TICKETS: Schools distribute tickets in advance. All guests aged 2 and over must have a ticket to attend a graduation. Children under 2 are allowed but must sit on a parent or guardian's lap. Bags, carriers, etc., cannot occupy a seat. Lost tickets will not be replaced.
PROHIBITED ITEMS
The following items are strictly prohibited from entering the Florence Center. If guests are found in possession of these items inside the Florence Center, they will be immediately confiscated. Please visit our FAQ page for a full list of prohibited items as well as our bag policy.
- Air Horns
- Balloons
- Confetti
- Glass Objects (this includes flowers in glass vases)
- Glitter
- Silly String
- Selfie Sticks
- Streamers
- Tripods
- Large umbrellas (collapsible umbrellas are allowed)
CLEAR BAG POLICY
This policy not only streamlines the security process but also ensures transparency, allowing quick and efficient bag checks. By implementing this policy, we prioritize the safety and security of all attendees while maintaining a hassle-free experience for everyone.
- Clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC bags that do not exceed 12” x 6” x 12” - A logo no larger than 4.5” x 3.4” can be displayed on one side of a permissible clear bag.
- One-gallon clear plastic freezer bag (Ziploc bag or similar)
- Small clutch bags no larger than 4.5” x 6.5” - approximately the size of a hand, with or without a handle or strap
- Medically necessary items (after proper inspection and tagging)
