Upcoming Winter Fun at the Wisconsin Union
The leaves on the Terrace trees have fallen, and the air has officially turned frosty. As we always do, we, at the Wisconsin Union, embrace the fall and winter seasons with a lineup of revelry and delicious eats that would make even the Grinch crack a smile.
Whether you want to craft, lean into cocoa-and-cozy energy or catch a holiday movie (Yes, we’re calling “Die Hard” a holiday movie.), we’ve got you covered. Grab your mittens, friends, and let’s have some fun!
AN ARTISTIC WINTER
If you’ve been craving a moment of peace or a chance to be creative for the fun of being creative, Wheelhouse Studios has you covered with winter and holiday-themed
Handbuilt Holiday Trees – Dec. 1
Shape your own holiday-tree sculptures out of clay, glaze them and feel fantastically accomplished while having holiday decor no one else will have. And when people ask where you got it, you can proudly say, “I made that.”
More info: union.wisc.edu/events-and-activities/event-calendar/event/handbuilt-holiday-trees
Winter Wreath Workshop – Dec. 4
Evergreen and festive, this class will have you feeling like you’re in a holiday rom-com montage or a Hallmark movie. Craft a wreath so stunning that your friends will ask if you can make theirs, too.
Sip & Paint: Kitschy Christmas Trees – Dec. 11
Create your version of one of this Christmas season’s hottest, most sought after holiday decor trends: the kitschy ceramic tree. Sip a beverage, and paint your unapologetically festive tree.
Info: union.wisc.edu/events-and-activities/event-calendar/event/sip-paint-kitschy-christmas-trees
YOUR FREE WINTERTIME MOVIE THEATER
Winter movie nights are even better when they’re free at the Marquee at Union South. And our fall and winter film lineup has wintertime and holiday additions for those perfect seasonal vibes. Don’t forget your sodas and popcorn from Sett Recreation and your burgers from the Sett Pub. You can bring it all into the Marquee! No tickets or pre-registration needed for most film screenings!
“The Muppets Christmas Carol” – Dec. 5
Kermit as Bob Cratchit. Miss Piggy as Mrs. Cratchit. Michael Caine acting like he’s performing Shakespeare.
It’s perfect.
“Love Actually” – Dec. 6
Is it a holiday movie? Absolutely.
Is it messy? Also yes.
Will you cry at least once? Probably.
“Die Hard” – Dec. 6
Open-caption screening and officially settling the “Is it a Christmas movie?” discussion for the 372nd time.
(Our stance: If it has holiday office-party chaos and festive explosions, it counts.)
GEAR UP FOR SNOW SEASON
61st Annual Hoofer Ski & Snowboard Resale – Dec. 6-7
This event is the winter version of a treasure hunt. Need skis? Snowboards? Boots? Cool winter gear that will keep you warm that you didn’t know you needed until now? The Hoofer Ski & Snowboard Resale has you covered.
This has been running for 61 years and is a can’t-miss for outdoor enthusiasts and aspiring outdoor adventurers.
Full details: union.wisc.edu/snsresale2025
LIVE PERFORMANCES FOR YOUR COZY-SEASON PLAYLIST
Not winter or holiday-themed, but these events deserve honorable mention and your winter revelry consideration.
Badgerpalooza – Dec. 5-6
At the Badgerpalooza student music showcase, expect emerging artists, original songs and a whole lot of Badger student talent. Students will be on the stage, but all are welcome to attend.
More info: https://union.wisc.edu/events-and-activities/event-calendar/event/badgerpalooza-student-showcase
Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center – Dec. 5
Presented by the Wisconsin Union Theater and Wisconsin Union Directorate Performing Arts Committee, this performance is your chance to experience world-class musicians right here on campus. You deserve an evening of elegance and relaxation in the midst of holiday hecticness.
COZY DELICIOUSNESS
As the Wisconsin winter chill sets in, now is the perfect time to warm up with a steaming bowl of house-made soup at der Rathskeller, Carte, Sett Pub or one of our markets and cafes across campus. For something quick yet nourishing and cozy, swing by Carte in Memorial Union for a freshly toasted sandwich.
And, of course, we serve rich hot chocolate and other warm beverages that hit just right between classes, meetings or a day of fun at Peet’s Coffee at Memorial Union, Prairie Fire at Union South and many markets and cafes throughout downtown Madison.
And don’t forget about our Friday fish fry options at Lakeview Lounge at Memorial Union and Smitty’s Study Pub at the Fluno Center.
Warm, comforting bites and beverages await you along with many spots to sit and watch snow fall in beautiful downtown Madison: https://union.wisc.edu/dine/find-food-and-drink.
MAKING WINTER FUN
Whether you want to be crafty, cozy, outdoorsy or are simply ready for a little seasonal cheer, the Wisconsin Union has a winter moment waiting for you.
Let’s make every season a great season, Badgers and Badgers-at-heart.
