Homecoming kicked off with a splash of pink! The annual Fill the Hill fundraiser brought a wave of flamingo fun to Bascom Hill, inspired by the Pail and Shovel Party’s legendary 1979 prank. Each pink lawn flamingo planted marks a gift made to the university. With 4,359 gifts, Fill the Hill raised more than $737,849, making it a record-breaking year!
Campus transformed from flamingo pink to Badger red as UW Homecoming celebrations rolled into Friday night. Students, alumni, and the campus community came together for the beloved Homecoming parade, proudly sponsored by the Wisconsin Union and UW–Madison’s Homecoming Committee. State Street came alive with spirited floats, the booming sounds of the UW Marching Band, and cheers from enthusiastic spectators, who lit up the evening with tradition and pride.
The parade flowed seamlessly into the Block Party at One Alumni Place and Alumni Park, where the celebration kept going strong. Thanks to our talented alumni DJs, the silent disco pulsed with energy, drawing dancers into the rhythm. For those looking for other fun, there was something for everyone — crafting stations, face painting, photo booths, yard games, stargazing at Washburn Observatory, and plenty of hot chocolate and sweet treats to go around.
Badger spirit hit a high note when DJay Mando ’16 took over the Terrace stage for the Homecoming pep rally. The energy was electric when the UW Marching Band, the spirit squad, and special guest Bucky Badger fired up the crowd. The night ended with a dazzling fireworks display over Lake Mendota, lighting up the sky in true Badger style.
The energy stayed sky-high at the Multicultural Homecoming Yard Show inside Shannon Hall.
Hosted in partnership with the Office of Fraternity and Sorority Life, the event brought the crowd to life as members of the National Pan-Hellenic Council and Multicultural Greek Council showcased dynamic step, stroll, and salute routines. The performances had the audience cheering, dancing, and celebrating the vibrant spirit of Homecoming.
For Badgers who weren’t ready to call it a night, the fun continued at the Badger Meet-Up: HoCo Edition! DJ Julian Gross kept the dance floor buzzing at the Rigby, spinning tracks that had late-night Badgers on their feet. Meanwhile, others mingled, networked, or put their skills to the test in the third annual Badger Spelling Bee. (No studying required!)
What’s a Homecoming game without a tailgate? At the Multicultural Homecoming Tailgate and Watch Party, Badgers gathered at the Pyle Center and Alumni Park to keep the energy high. The celebration featured yard games, an interactive photo booth, music and dancing, and a delicious spread of food and beverages. Some fans stayed to cheer on the team via the big screen, while others dashed off to catch the 6 p.m. kickoff live. Either way, the Badger spirit was in full swing!
Did you catch the game against Iowa? The Badgers showed up in full force, packing Camp Randall with unmatched energy and pride. From kickoff to the late-night Fifth Quarter, the stadium was alive with tradition, music, and pure Badger spirit. Especially during Homecoming, it’s special to see Badgers of all ages come together to relish in UW traditions.
