8 tips for Reunion Weekend 2026

Beyond footwear, think layers, sun protection, and if you're staying on campus, your own creature comforts. Dorms provide the basics, but your favorite amenities (a hair dryer, a good fan) are on you.

As for dress code: Most events are open to personal preference, with only a handful calling for suggested attire. Wear what makes you feel like yourself. 

3. Explore what’s new on campus.

Brown's campus has grown and changed, and part of the fun of returning is discovering what's different. 

Before you arrive, brush up on the lay of the land with this interactive campus map. And once you're here, give yourself time to wander beyond the familiar. You might be surprised by how much has changed!

4. Dress for whatever the weather brings.

Reunion Weekend runs rain or shine, and late May in New England could bring just about anything. Outdoor events and tented gatherings will proceed as planned unless there's lightning or serious weather, so come prepared for both scenarios.

If the sun is out, you'll be glad you packed sunscreen, a hat, and a reusable water bottle. Hydration stations will be set up on the main green. If the skies open up, an umbrella or a light poncho will go a long way toward keeping your spirits (and your outfit) intact.

5. Show your Brown pride!

There's no better place than College Hill to wear your Brunonian identity on your sleeve! Pull out that vintage Brown sweatshirt, dust off the class banner, or dig up whatever piece of memorabilia has been sitting in a drawer since your graduation. 

And if you want something fresh to mark the occasion, stop by Bruno’s Reunion Shop. It’s located inside the registration tent, and is open on Friday from noon to 10 p.m. and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

6. Bring photos—and take plenty more.

Old photos have a way of becoming the centerpiece of every class gathering. Dig through your yearbooks, your albums, or that box of printed photos you haven't opened in years. Bring them along, and see if you can recreate a shot or two with the people who were there the first time.

When you're sharing on social media, be sure to tag Brown Alumni & Friends (@brownalumni) so your memories can be shared with the broader community!

7. Contribute to your class gift before the weekend.

Reunion Class Gifts are one of the most meaningful ways Brunonians come together to give back to the university that shaped them. Each Reunion class sets ambitious dollar and participation goals—you can contact your class's Brown Annual Fund staff liaison to learn more. Consider making your contribution before you arrive!

Then stop by the Reunion Volunteer and Donor Tent right next to registration check-in. Brown Annual Fund staff will be there to answer questions, and donors can pick up an "I Gave" sticker and enter to win swag.

8. Gear up for the Procession.

The Commencement Procession is one of those Reunion experiences that alumni describe in terms that don't quite do it justice until you've lived it yourself. It starts at the iconic Van Wickle Gates and winds down College Hill—and what makes it unlike anything else is the "inverted sock" tradition at its heart.

After University leadership and the Brown Band, earlier class years walk through the gates first, lining the sides of the route and cheering on everyone who comes after them. Younger alumni march through that corridor of enthusiasm, then peel off to join it, so that by the end, the newest graduates walk through a tunnel of thousands of Brunonians roaring them into the alumni community. Then, in the inversion, those who lined up first get their moment to walk through everyone they've just cheered.

Come ready to clap, cheer, and high-five your way through it! Be sure to check out this year’s new ticketing requirements if you plan to join.