While bags are not encouraged, the following outlines the bags that are permitted:

• 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)

Diapers and additional baby supplies may be carried in a clear bag. Family members, including children, are allowed to carry an approved bag into the arena.

Prohibited bags include, but are not limited to:

• Purses larger than a clutch bag
• Briefcases
• Backpacks
• Fanny packs
• Cinch/Drawstring bags
• Luggage of any kind
• Computer bags
• Diaper bags
• Binocular cases
• Camera bags

Walk-through magnetometers will be in use for all patrons. When approaching the security checkpoints at all entrances, keep all items in your pockets and bags. If you have a bag, proceed to the designated bag check areas. Clear bags are required. Patrons are encouraged to arrive early and allow ample time for processing. Diapers and additional baby supplies may be carried in a clear bag. Family members, including children, are allowed to carry an approved bag into the arena. View clear bag policy here.

• Outside food and beverages
• No smoking (this includes e-cigarettes and vape pens)
• Golf umbrellas/Large umbrellas
• Binoculars magnifying device or telescope (varies by event)
• Strollers (Except those modified to accommodate HC patrons)
• Laser pointers
• Bull horns and noisemakers
• Confetti
• Fireworks, firearms or weapons of any kind (that includes mace)
• Framed backpacks
• Glass bottles, aluminum cans or empty bottles of any kind
• Banner size posters (subject to change depending on event)
• Ice chests (coolers) or thermos containers
• Distribution of leaflets and brochures
• Aerosol cans
• Skateboards or roller blades
• Stools or folding chairs
• Water Bottles or Mugs
• Animals (unless certified for the disabled)
• Beach balls and other inflatable items
• Balloons (including helium)
• Professional Cameras/Extended Lenses/Professional Photography Equipment
• Selfie Sticks
• Laptops
• Tablets (except for Gamecock Athletic Events)
• Video cameras (unless otherwise specified by the event)
• Bags are subject to search at all events
• Click here to see all other policies

Professional cameras are allowed. 

No tripods or unipods will be allowed. 

Parking for high school graduation ceremonies will be available in the following nearby garages and parking lots. Please plan on early arrival to ensure parking availability. Surface lots located at 816 Greene Street (recommended for ADA) and 650 Gadsden Street as well as the Discovery Garage located at 821 Park Street are within walking distance of the Colonial Life Arena.

Accessible parking is available in most, if not all, of these lots for those with a state-issued disability pass, sticker or license plate. Drop-off is available at the corner of Lincoln & College Streets. Please note early arrival is encouraged for use of this option as we are expecting a high level of congestion in the area.

Please Note: All graduates are asked to park at Devine West located at 722 Devine Street. 

Prices determined by owners/operators 

Inside the arena, you may find seats in any of the open sections. Graduation candidates have reserved seating which will be marked.

Premium Suite Rentals are available. Click here to contact us. 

Signs bigger than a standard sheet of paper will not be allowed. 

No flags. 

Standard strollers and collapsible strollers are prohibited. 

Except those modified to accommodate accessibility needs. 

No wrapped gifts or balloons will be allowed. 

Gifts are subject to search & must meet approved items list. 

No balloons of any kind. 

Noisemakers of any kind are prohibited. 

Flowers will be allowed. 

No vases. 

Umbrellas exceeding 23 inches in length are prohibited. Small collapsible umbrellas are preferred.