Celebrate the spirit of UW Homecoming at this family-friendly event that includes festive activities around every turn. Then, give your Badger pride an even bigger boost during the pep rally featuring the UW Marching Band and Bucky, followed by a show-stopping fireworks display (weather permitting). This drop-in extravaganza, held rain or shine, has been entertaining Badgers of all ages since 2017.
Schedule
| 7 p.m. | Block Party begins (immediately following the parade) |
| 8–10 p.m. | Multicultural Homecoming Yard Show, Shannon Hall |
| 8:15–8:45 p.m. | Pep rally on the Memorial Union Terrace stage |
| 8:45–9 p.m. | Fireworks over Lake Mendota (weather permitting) |
Featured Activities
- Silent disco in Alumni Park featuring DJ Mike Carlson ’88, DJ Nick Nice ’92, and DJ Ree Maniac ’18; rain location in the Pyle Center’s Alumni Lounge
- DJay Mando (Armando Saafir ’16) spinning tunes on the Terrace stage from 6 to 8:30 p.m.
- Photo booth experience with Little Chic Shasta
- Stargazing with telescopes and staff from Washburn Observatory (weather permitting)
- Face painting and glitter tattoos with Funny Faces Balloon Décor & Family Entertainment
- Friendship-bracelet making with Revel Madison
- Wisco Bingo with fun, spirited prizes
- Hot cocoa, popcorn, and other treats (while supplies last)
- Spirit Station tent in Alumni Park jam-packed with fun activities for Badgers of all ages
- Pep rally featuring the UW Marching Band, led by Dr. Corey Pompey; the UW Spirit Squad; Bucky Badger; WAA’s chief alumni officer, Sarah Schutt; and special guest Phoebe Bacon, champion swimmer on the UW women’s swimming and diving team and member of the US Olympic Swimming Team
- Performance by Optima Dance
- Performance by Fundamentally Sound (Student A Cappella Group)
- Fireworks over Lake Mendota (weather permitting)
Locations are subject to change
Parking
There are numerous campus parking ramps near One Alumni Place and Alumni Park. Lot 6, the Helen C. White Library Parking Garage, is located across the street from Memorial Union at 600 N. Park Street. Lot 46, at the corner of Lake Street and Johnson Street, is also a good option, as is the State Street Campus Garage at 430 N. Frances Street. Visit the UW’s visitor parking page for more information, parking maps, locations, and hours.
Additional Information
The Wisconsin Alumni Association will hold this event in accordance with all local public health guidance. Mask usage is welcome but not required. Participants who are sick are asked to stay home to help keep our Badger community safe and healthy. If conditions require a change to this event, you will be notified via email or phone call.
