Wisconsin Welcome

Wisconsin Welcome is a multi-week celebration that invites incoming freshmen and transfer students to discover Madison, meet fellow Badgers, and find their campus community.

Looking to host or sponsor an event? Find more information about hosting and promoting a Wisconsin Welcome event on our Event Hosts and Sponsors webpage.

Meet Your Campus Community

Wisconsin Welcome 2026

August 29–September 20

Download the Wisconsin Welcome app and start planning your official welcome to UW–Madison today!

Download the app

Follow us on Instagram for the latest updates!

Follow @UWNewStudent on Instagram

Fall 2026 Featured Events

A large group of people dancing with headphones from the silent disco party.

Sunburst Festival

Sunday, Aug. 30
7–11 p.m.
Union South

New Student Convocation

Tuesday, Sept. 1
Doors open at 12:30 p.m.
The Kohl Center

MCOR: Cultural Showcase

Friday, Sept. 4
6–9 p.m.
Shannon Hall

Students from the Wisconsin Alumni Student Board (WASB) lead new students in cheering during The W Project.

The W Project: Bucky’s 5th Quarter

Monday, Aug. 31
Gates open at 6:30 p.m.
Camp Randall Field

People playing on a giant inflatable game.

Bakke Block Party

Friday, Sept. 4
3–6 p.m.
Bakke Recreation & Wellbeing Center

Members from the Society for Creative Anachronism (SCA) speak at the Student Org Fair.

Fall Student Organization Fair

Wednesday, Sept. 9 and Thursday, Sept. 10
5–8 p.m.
The Kohl Center

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Resources & Updates

Check Out the Bucky List

In between Wisconsin Welcome events, don’t forget to explore your new home. The Bucky List gets you started with iconic Madison experiences like hiking Picnic Point, visiting the free Henry Vilas Zoo, and more!

Learn More

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A student takes a photo with Bucky Badger outside Library Mall.

Have Questions?

Whether it’s getting involved, planning an event, or volunteering to support new students, there are opportunities with Wisconsin Welcome!

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