As a University of Wisconsin–Madison student, fall semester is always exciting, with classes beginning, colors changing, and Madison becoming more lively than ever. Throughout the fall, UW–Madison as well as non-UW organizations host many fun outdoor activities and events before the infamous Wisconsin winter. As an intern at the Office of Sustainability, I’d like to present 6 Must-Visit Madison Spots Hosting Fall-Themed Outdoor Events that promote social and environmental sustainability.
1. Lake Mendota and the Lakeshore Nature Preserve
Immerse yourself in Madison’s natural spaces and explore the Lakeshore Nature Preserve by attending one of these Outdoor UW, Hoofers, and/or Lakeshore Nature Preserve events.
Destination Picnic Point with Outdoor UW and Hoofers
September 21, September 29, October 6
Picnic Point, located on Madison’s Lakeshore Nature Preserve and snug in Lake Mendota, is known for its innate beauty and view of Madison. Combining these two ideas, Destination Picnic Point is an event that will connect you with the lake while also learning about Madison’s history. Paddle along, reach Picnic Point, and complete the trip with a bonfire and some s’mores.
Fall Colors Hike
September 26, October 2
Not a fan of being on the water? No worries, join Outdoor UW and Hoofers for their Fall Colors Hike. Traverse yourself through Picnic Point’s many colorful paths all while seeing the fall leaves changing. Learn why trees and leaves change biologically during fall and finish the hike reflecting back on the lake.
Full Moon Hike
October 17, November 15
If you enjoy looking up at night at the moon and the stars, then this late-night full-moon hike is for you. Join Outdoor UW and Hoofers for a Full Moon Hike and go for a moonlit stroll through Picnic Point. Keep warm with some hot cocoa and breathe in the crisp cool air.
Drop-in Volunteer Events
September 21, October 12, October 19
Looking for some sustainability-themed events that are also volunteer experiences? Stop by at the Lakeshore Nature Preserve’s Drop-in Volunteer Events. Learn more about how the Nature Preserve tends to their plants and partake in ecological restoration activities like removing invasive plants, planting, cleaning up paths and more.
2. Harvest Folk Festival – Allen Centennial Garden
September 28
Allen Centennial Garden showcases a variety of native and exotic plants with themed landscapes that connect UW students and the greater Madison community with nature. Join the Allen Centennial Garden at the Harvest Folk Festival to gain an educational yet fun experience by dancing, eating, and learning harvest traditions of Teejop, the ancestral home of the Ho-Chunk Nation, as well as traditions from around the world. This year’s theme, “Enchanted Ground,” will emphasize the importance of grounded ecological elements like seeds and how we can create useful things from plants.
3. Harvest Fest – The People’s Farm
October 6
Located near the Eagle Heights community, the student-run People’s Farm (previously known as FH King Students for Sustainable Agriculture) will host their own Harvest Fest. Connect with this student organization by playing yard games, eating fresh produce, and listening to live music all while enjoying a bonfire.
4. Garden Tours and Walks – Arboretum
The Arboretum is home to 1,200 acres of prairies, savannas, wetlands, and forest plants, flowers, and animals. Above all, the Arboretum is an educational resource that supports research and land care. The Arboretum hosts weekly classes and garden tours led by experienced staff members who can teach you all about the ecosystems the Arboretum supports. Learn more by joining in one of the tours below.
Fall in the Native Plant Garden – Garden Tour
September 21
Learn about the wonderful native species of Wisconsin and how they interact with the chilling changes of fall. Fall in the Native Plant Garden – Garden Tour, led by garden curator Susan Carpenter, will teach you many details about how late-season plants & insects work with the fall colors, seeds, and fruits.
Night Walk: Fall Equinox
September 21
Invite the new season with a Night Walk: Fall Equinox hosted by the Arboretum. Trot along the many paths at night, sightsee, and listen in on the nocturnal animals and insects living within the Arboretum. Bring bug spray and be prepared for chilly weather.
Fall Colors – Garden Tour
October 19
Are you curious about the science behind why leaves change colors during the fall? Learn more about this by embarking on Fall Colors – Garden Tour with garden curator, David Stevens. Meander throughout the Longenecker Horticultural Gardens and spot all the diverse leaves and their vibrant colors.
5. GLEAM – Art in a New Light – Olbrich Botanical Gardens
August 24 – October 26, Wednesday-Saturday
If you’re looking for an interactive experience involving people, glowing lights, nature, and art, GLEAM – Art in a New Light at the Olbrich Botanical Gardens is the perfect event. This nocturnal exhibit invites you to explore this magical world and leisure in the glowing environment. Olbrich brings in art from all over the world to feature in this exhibit. Featured art pieces that capture surrealism and geometric abstraction include: “Nocturnal Bloom” by Oliver Lewis, “Time Stretched Thin” by Josh Miller, “Forest Choir” by Ottomata, and many more.
6. Full Moon Paddle – Lake Wingra
September 17, 7-9pm
One of Madison’s four beautiful lakes, Lake Wingra is located on the south side of Madison and is a great location for ecological sightseeing. Explore this lake by kayak or paddleboard by renting a watercraft at Wingra Boats. Wingra Boats hosts a monthly event, Full Moon Paddle on Lake Wingra, and you don’t want to miss the last one of the season. Not only can you bask in the moonlight while being on the water, but you can also enjoy roasting s’mores over a floating fire pit and listen to live music, where the musicians are also floating with you on a stage. A unique Madison experience!
By: Alicia Lopez