Atmosphere
The second you step onto campus on game day in Madison, you can feel the energy and excitement in the air. We’ve yet to find a place where the fans wear so much game day swag, namely the GameDay Bibs, Throwback Wisconsin Gear, Guys wearing badgers, Cheeseheads, kids with jerseys of the current stars, and the occasional painted Red Guy running around campus.
Traditionally, the older alumni and families stay around the stadium, but students will either be near the Frat Row, at apartment parties, or at the neighborhoods next to the stadium. Each area will have its vibe, but the constant is that all college aged Badger fans will be slamming brewski’s and taking pulls off their favorite hard liquor from plastic bottles in copious amounts.
However, one thing that is different from Wisconsin than other large party schools is the small amount of traditional tailgating. There’s limited parking near the stadium (since the school shares Madison with the Capitol) so most fans tend to park & then go to one of the popular places on campus or bars near the stadium. Either way, about 30 minutes before kickoff, 95% of fans will still be outside of the stadium, getting their last bites or drinks. Be sure to wear Red, join the ‘Sea of Red”, grab a brat & join the hurried march to the stadium!
Traditions
Badger Bash - Union South
One of the most fun things to do (and very family friendly) is the Badger Bash held at Union South. The UW-Madison “Union” is very well known for the Terrace, but Union South is the spot on Gameday. The band comes and plays, there’s food, drinks, and a huge crowd. The best part is that it’s steps away from the Stadium!
Camp Randall Arch
The Camp Randall Memorial Arch commemorates one of the most turbulent times in our nation's history: the Civil War. It’s a giant stone arch that most fans walk through on their way to the stadium.
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Beer Bongs
UW has perfected the art of the beer bong. They have 2 story beer bongs, octobongs (8 bongs in one) and plenty of standards. Be sure to get one!
Frats Tailgating on Lake
UW-Madison is one of the few lucky schools to be located on a lake, and when the weather is still good enough, the lucky Frats on the water get after it. Too bad it gets so cold!
Breese Terrace
All around the stadium, there is almost endless activity. Be sure to walk down Breese Terrace next to the stadium and see if you can join a house party / tailgate!
Follow the Band!
After you stop by the Badger Bash at Union South, be sure to follow the band as they lead fans to the Stadium. You'll walk straight through the Camp Randall Arch!
Where to tailgate
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Badger BashThe Badger Bash is a pre-game tradition at Union South, which is across the street from Camp Randall. Here you’ll find 1000’s of Wisconsin fans, a gift shop, brats & beer served almost everywhere. Most importantly, the band performs here before the game for about 30 minutes and then leads the fans into the stadium. It’s a must for all 1st Timers!
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Parking LotsEven though Madison isn’t known for their ‘traditional tailgating’ it’s still better than most places! The map shows where fans can / can’t tailgate, but most fans typically will have trucks out in the South-East of the stadium. If you’re not making food, then most Badger fans can be convinced to trade some cheese curds for a brat or a brew, so come packing!
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Breese TerraceThis is the street to the West of the Stadium. Almost every student house has a party, so either throw the KegMaster $5 for some access to the Keg or bring your own and share. Most of the guys will be cool with it unless you’re wearing the opposite colors! (a $20 should suffice then..)
