Madison Reporter

Madison's State Street was filled with excitement during the University of Wisconsin–Madison's annual Homecoming Parade on Friday, October 25. This event is a key part of Homecoming week activities, organized by the Wisconsin Alumni Association and the Wisconsin Union, leading up to Saturday’s football game against Penn State.

The weather for the parade was described as "crisp, cool and clear." Madison and Andrew Schwabe attended with their three-year-old daughter Aila Schwabe, all noted fans of Bucky Badger. Chancellor Jennifer Mnookin and her husband, Professor Joshua Foa Dienstag, were seen waving to spectators from their car.

Participants included members of the Mad Jugglers group who juggled while marching. Miss Madison Halle Bender and Miss Madison's Teen Natalie Popp also made an appearance on State Street. The UW Spirit Squad received cheers from children in attendance, while Bucky Badger displayed a W paw sign to engage with the crowd.

A member of the UW Boxing Club playfully interacted with children along State Street. A cutout of mascot Bucky Badger featured prominently on a float by the American Society for Agricultural and Biological Engineers. Delta Sigma Theta Sorority members also participated in the parade.

Later that evening at Memorial Union Terrace, Rebekah Rhyne, Abby Bartleson, and Lindsey Cholewczynski joined others in singing “Varsity” during the Homecoming Block Party. The UW Spirit Squad and Marching Band performed at a pep rally there. Tia Maeder cheered on her sophomore undergraduate student from the crowd.

Bucky Badger entertained attendees by body surfing during this rally. Cheryl Dennis expressed pride as she posed for a selfie with her daughter Sara Dennis amidst fireworks closing out the block party.