What happens at a BJJ belt promotion ceremony?

Promotion ceremonies are significant moments in a BJJ practitioner journey. Some gyms hold formal ceremonies with all students present, while others promote during regular class. The gauntlet tradition, where the promoted student walks or runs between two lines of teammates who whip them with belts, has become controversial. Some gyms maintain it as tradition while others have eliminated it. Regardless of the ceremony format, the promotion typically involves the instructor speaking about the student progress and character, untying their old belt, and tying the new one. Teammates applaud and often take photos and videos. Many practitioners describe their promotions as some of the most emotional moments of their lives because the belts represent years of dedication and sacrifice. It is common to see tears, especially at purple belt and above. After the ceremony, tradition at many gyms dictates that the newly promoted student must roll with everyone in attendance, which can be exhausting but is a rite of passage. Some gyms follow the promotion with food and celebration.