Tar Heel Express

UNC Spring Commencement 2026

The Tar Heel Express will run to Kenan Stadium, Gate Two, on Saturday, May 8th for UNC-Chapel Hill Commencement graduates and guests. Shuttles depart from the Friday Center Park and Ride Lot starting at 5:00pm, and return to the lot at the end of Commencement.

Graduates are encouraged to be early and all riders should be aware of Kenan Stadium's Clear Bag Policy.

Tar Heel Express Starting Locations

Friday Center Park and Ride

  • Free parking available
  • Football service starts 3 hours before kick-off
  • Basketball service starts 2 hours before tip-off

Southern Village Park and Ride

  • Free parking available
  • Football service starts 2.5 hours before kick-off
  • Basketball service starts 1.5 hours before tip-off

Downtown Chapel Hill, Franklin Street

  • Football service starts 3 hours before kick-off
  • Basketball service starts 1.5 hours before tip-off
  • Near the Carolina Coffee Shop, mid-block of East Franklin Street
  • Paying for Tar Heel Express boarding pass does not pay for or guarantee parking spot in downtown lots
  • Parking information available at parkonthehill.com

Purchasing THX Boarding Passes

  • Every person riding the bus requires a pass.
  • Passes are $10 per person. Kids 5 and under are free.
  • Passes are sold at the lot or through Just Park.
    • Choose your game first
    • Then pick your starting location
  • All major credit cards, Apple pay, and Google pay are accepted. No cash is accepted.

After the Game

  • Return to your lot by boarding in the correct zone

Boarding zones at Kenan Stadium.Boarding zones at Smith Center.

More Information about THX

  • All Chapel Hill Transit buses are ADA accessible.
  • Kenan Stadium drop-off and pick-up location is along South Road, towards Woolen Gym
  • Dean Smith Center drop-off and pick-up location is on Skipper Bowles Drive
  • Buses depart when full or every 10-15 minutes.
  • Return to the lots during the game is not guaranteed.
  • Service ends approximately 45 minutes after the end of the game.
  • Please do not bring the following items on board CHT buses or to the Stadium:
    • Bags not approved for the stadium
    • Alcohol
    • Weapons
    • Artificial noise makers
    • Coolers
    • Food and beverage
    • Lawn chairs
    • Laser pointers
    • Video or camera equipment larger than for personal use
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