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.
On this Page
Meet Your Campus Community
Wisconsin Welcome 2026
August 29–September 20
The UW Events app will be available later this summer. Follow us on Instagram for the latest updates!
Fall 2026 Featured Events
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
The W Project: Bucky’s 5th Quarter
Monday, Aug. 31
Gates open at 6:30 p.m.
Camp Randall Field
Bakke Block Party
Friday, Sept. 4
3–6 p.m.
Bakke Recreation & Wellbeing Center
Fall Student Organization Fair
Wednesday, Sept. 9 and Thursday, Sept. 10
5–8 p.m.
The Kohl Center
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!
Have Questions?
Whether it’s getting involved, planning an event, or volunteering to support new students, there are opportunities with Wisconsin Welcome!
Additional Resources
Other Upcoming Events
August
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August 31Back to School Bash at the ChazenWelcome UW-Madison Students! Kick off the school year with FREE art activities, snacks, and exploration at the Chazen Museum of Art.2:30 PM, Chazen Museum of Art
September
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September 1
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September 1
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September 1
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September 2Study & Intern AbroadFirst-Year Student Welcome!