It’s finally here, Badgers! It’s the start of the fall semester, and there’s so much to be excited about. Whether you’re returning to campus after your SOAR session, or arriving for the first time, we know it can be a lot to take in. To help you settle in, find your people, and celebrate being a Badger, check out Wisconsin Welcome! This month-long celebration offers hundreds of events including highlights such as the W Project and New Student Convocation.
Here’s a sneak peek of what awaits you during your first week on campus:
The Sunburst Festival
- August 30, 7–11 p.m.
During Wisconsin Welcome, the Sunburst Festival turns Union South into a playground of fun. Play games, taste food, get your 2026 Wisconsin Union t-shirt and go to a silent disco! All this, plus a movie, crafts, karaoke and other exciting surprises—all for free! It’s a great way to explore campus life, meet new people, and unwind before the semester starts.
The W Project: Bucky’s 5th Quarter
- August 31, 6:30–8:30 p.m.
Picture yourself in Camp Randall Stadium, surrounded by thousands of new Badgers, all cheering and dancing in the stands. This is the W Project: our way of saying, “You belong here!” Immerse yourself in Badger tradition, and get to know your surrounding community. Whether you’re a first-year or a transfer student, it’s a perfect opportunity to celebrate Badger tradition and school spirit. Don’t forget to wear red!
New Student Convocation
- September 1, 1:30–2:30
New Student Convocation serves as the official academic welcome to UW–Madison. New first-year and transfer students are invited to join Interim Chancellor Eric Wilcots and other campus leaders for a fall semester kick-off. Make sure to collect your class pin, W Project poster, and this year’s Go Big Read book, Custodians of Wonder.
Bakke Block Party
- September 4, 3–6 p.m.
Held at the state-of-the-art Bakke Recreation & Wellbeing Center, this celebration showcases one of the coolest spots on campus, while hosting fun, well-being focused activities. Enjoy a skate in the Sub-Zero Ice Center, play games, and meet other new students. Plus, it’s totally free—you can’t miss it.
MCOR: A Cultural Showcase
- September 4, 6–9 p.m.
Kick off the year with a spectacular showcase of performances by multicultural students and organizations. Held in Shannon Hall at Memorial Union, you can enjoy diverse performances from dance and music to stepping and strolling!
Each of these events is a chance to meet new students, explore campus, and ease the transition into Badger life. So get ready, take in the moment, and make your first week unforgettable.
For more information on Wisconsin Welcome events, check out the full schedule on the Wisconsin Welcome app!