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Akins Ford Arena

Three school logos with graduation dates

Akins Ford Arena Graduation Information

We look forward to honoring our graduates and celebrating this milestone together at Akins Ford Arena. There are several reasons for the ceremonies to be held at Akins Ford Arena:

 

  • Safety:
    There are safety measures such as weapons detectors, security staff, and medical personnel on duty who are trained to respond in a large-crowd setting.

  • Climate-controlled Environment:
    Graduates and guests will not have to worry about inclement weather creating a safety concern, causing date changes, or dampening the day. This also helps ensure safety to prevent heat-related illnesses.

  • Space:
    Due to our increasing class sizes, our school facilities are not able to safely accommodate the number of people who want to enjoy the ceremony. There will be no need for tickets.

  • Audio/Video Enhancements:
    Your graduates will be featured on the arena's large screens as they receive their diplomas, ensuring all seats will have a great view of the important moment.

 

Specific details about each of the school ceremonies will be shared with students and families closer to the date.

In the meantime, please see our questions and answers below for more information about Akins Ford Arena. To add a question, please email communication@barrow.k12.ga.us.

 

 

 

Akins Ford Arena places to park map

Parking near Akins Ford Arena

Parking in downtown Athens is not free. The Classic Center deck (closest to the arena) may charge up to $25 per vehicle. Additional parking near the arena may be more affordable. -Washington Street Deck – 125 W Washington St (~0.3 miles) -Clarke Co. Courthouse Deck – 325 E Washington St (~0.3 miles) -College Avenue Deck – 230 S Jackson St (~0.4 miles) -UGA North Campus Deck – 230 S Jackson St (~0.5 miles) -Streetside Parking – Metered rates $2.00/hour

Parking Map

  • Akins Ford Arena is located at 300 N Thomas Street in Athens, GA. It is part of The Classic Center campus.

     

  • There is parking throughout downtown Athens. Most spots will require payment. Please see the parking information above to help.

     

  • The Akins Ford Arena offers seating for 4,700 for our ceremony. Seating is first-come, first-seated. Please use every seat available.

    Graduations will be live-streamed through the schools’ YouTube channels. 

  • No, tickets will not be given out ahead of time. Seating is first-come. We ask all guests to use every seat available. Thank you.

  • Yes, all guests will need to enter Akins Ford Arena through weapons detectors. Thank you for your cooperation.

  • All Akins Ford Arena events require fans to use clear bags. Clear bags can not be larger than 12" x 6" x 12". Non-clear wallets must be smaller than 5" x 8" x 2".

    Medical bags and diaper bags are allowed through with proper inspection.

    Clear Bag Policy graphic with approved and non-approved bag examples.

  • Due to ceremonies happening on the same day, photos on the floor with graduates or within the Akins Ford Arena with graduates will not be permitted. There is space outside the arena and also inside the Classic Center where you will be able to take photos.

    All graduates and guests will exit to the Foundry Street area after the ceremony.

  • Concessions, including water, soda, juice, chips, candy, chicken tenders, and soft pretzels, will be available for purchase.

    All purchases at Akins Ford Arena must be made with a credit or debit card. Cash is not accepted inside the venue.

    Outside food and beverages are not permitted.

  • For security reasons, outside food and drink are not permitted.

    Concessions will be available for purchase. Akins Ford Arena is a cashless facility.

     

  • Noisemakers, balloons, liquid string, signs, or anything that may draw attention away from the graduates are not allowed in the arena. Anyone attempting to bring these items will be asked to return them to their vehicle or throw them away before entering. Thank you.

  • Akins Ford Arena provides the space needed to safely accommodate our graduates and guests. It also offers an indoor, air-conditioned environment and in-house safety services such as security and medical personnel.

    The Akins Ford Arena staff are excited to welcome us and host these wonderful events.