The 1997 Commencement season introduced Grad Alley to the NYU campus. A carnival type atmosphere is created along West 4th Street and its neighboring streets. Banners and balloons serve as a guide while you stroll down Grad Alley enjoying the many entertainment opportunities including jugglers, a roving Dixie Land Band, mimes, and Lady Liberty.
Food is available for a bite to eat while taking in the sites.
The Dean of each school and college sponsor an event, some of which showcase the many talents of NYU students in the buildings lining Grad Alley. Venues include a cabaret, a musical theater review, and much more. The sounds of a live D.J. fill Gould Plaza encouraging graduates, their families and friends to dance and party the night away. The campus on the square is alive with an air of nostalgia and excitement. As the sun sets, a fireworks display off the rooftops from Gould Plaza announces the roar of Commencement to follow the next morning.