By Mia McCauley, Student Intern
Winter break may send many UW students home, but for those sticking around, Madison offers plenty of activities to keep the season alive. Even with colder days and State Street slowing down, many hidden gems can be found across campus. These resources serve as a guide to bring together everything students need to make winter break feel a little brighter and a lot more fun.
One of the most important things for students staying in town is knowing where to find reliable and affordable food options. Thankfully, there are several campus organizations remaining open throughout the break.
Resources
- During Winter Break, access to resources may look different, and support is still available. If you’re on campus during the break and want to know more about mental health services, food resources, bus schedules, and other essential services, visit the Basic Needs website. Don’t hesitate to reach out through the resources listed on the website—they are here to support you.
- The BADGER FARE program is a food support program that offers students $75 directly onto their Wiscard account, once a semester. Badger FARE aims to provide students with healthy and enjoyable food, directly catering to long-standing or emergency needs.
- The Office of Student Assistance and Support can connect you with campus services, so students are never navigating these challenges alone.
- UHS Mental Health Services< partners with Uwill to expand access to flexible, no-cost, virtual counseling options. Licensed medical professionals are available for video, phone, chat, and message sessions during flexible hours, including nights or weekends. Appointments are often available within 24 hours.
Things to do
Winter break in Madison also brings about opportunities to explore beyond campus. Options like the ASM bus pass, Madison Metro, and Zip Car rentals allow students to navigate across campus as well as the surrounding areas of Madison, even in the heart of winter. Be sure to stay current on the holiday bus schedule. Once you’ve chosen your way to get around, there’s no shortage of things to do. Madison hosts a variety of winter-themed events, on and off campus. Check out ice skating at the EdgeWater ice rink, located right downtown with a beautiful view of frozen Lake Mendota. Looking for something warmer? Dining in a dome offers a cozy winter dining experience, great for gathering with friends and enjoying a nice meal. Find all of this year’s winter dome dining locations.
Starting January 3, visit the biggest winter market in Madison. Hosted by the Dane County Farmers Market at Garver Feed Mill, this market features a selection of local produce, food, and drink. Madison is also home to many artistic workshops and classes. From pottery to painting, there are countless opportunities to pick up a new hobby or leave with a homemade craft. Reference the Destination Madison events calendar to stay updated on pop-up classes and other events.
Another standout option is the Henry Vilas Zoo, open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The Henry Vilas Zoo is one of only a few admission-free, community-supported zoos across the country. Visit indoor exhibits such as the Herpetarium, Aviary, and Discovery Center. Note the Zoo closes at noon on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve, and New Year’s Day.
Whether you’re spending your entire break in Madison or just a part of it, don’t miss out on these ways of staying connected, supported, and joyful through this holiday season. From essential resources to special winter activities, there are many ways to make these quieter months memorable and meaningful.