UW Homecoming
Way to Paint the Town Red!
Badgers of all ages returned for the love of red during UW Homecoming 2026. It was a weeklong celebration that saw students jump into traditions they’ll carry into the future, and alumni relive blasts from the past. Friday alone was overflowing with beloved traditions. There was the Fill the Hill FUNdraising event where the famed pink plastic flamingos — symbolizing valuable donor support — flocked to Bascom Hill. Later, the UW Homecoming Parade marched through the heart of Madison and into the hearts of Badger spectators. The evening culminated along the shores of Lake Mendota with the popular Block Party, pep rally, Multicultural Homecoming Yard Show, and a breathtaking fireworks display. Saturday didn’t let anyone catch their breath either with a frenzy of activity at the Multicultural Homecoming Watch Party — including music, games, food, and of course, the football game. Speaking of the big game, Wisconsin bowled over Michigan State, 31–3, to complete a winning Homecoming. Through it all, alumni, students, fans, friends, and community members enjoyed the red-carpet treatment. Until next year!
Be Part of the Tradition All Year Long
Hold on to the special feelings of UW Homecoming by taking advantage of the following spirited activities.
- Purchase The Red Shirt™ — the official shirt of UW Homecoming.
- Become a Social Badger by sharing what you love about the UW (like Homecoming) and get entered to win great prizes.
- Add some color to your day by downloading spirited coloring sheets here and here.
- Guess the Homecoming Birdles!
- Hype your UW pride on social using @WisAlumni and #UWHC by snapping a selfie or sharing a favorite Badger/Homecoming memory.
A Special Thank-You
