How to Spend Your Winter In Madison

It cannot be helped, Fall is coming to an end. Yet, with this end, the beginning of Winter arrives to embrace us with dreams of hot cocoa, frosty mornings in warm pajamas, and an array of activities to keep everyone busy during the darker, colder months. As Madison residents, the city and multiple institutions work towards bringing great activities to engage in all year long. And so, I present you with the best activities to add to your list for Winter of 2022-23.

The Holiday Fantasy Lights at Olin Park

A great way to kick off the season is with the holidays, a time when lights sparkle down state street and adorn mostly every home. However, if you are looking forward to seeing lighting take the next step, The Holiday Fantasy Lights at Olin Park is the place for you–at no extra cost. From the comfort of your car, you can ride around the park and enjoy the magnificent light displays. Plus, candy canes are given out to visitors from 4:30 to 10 p.m. every night.

The Holiday Express Flower & Model Train Show

Now, if your thirst for holiday spirit was not quenched by the magnificent light show at Olin Park, Olbrich Botanical Gardens has something ready for you. Picture the holidays adorned with jolly decorations, flowers, AND trains, could there be a better combination? I don’t think so. The Holiday Express Flower & Model Train Show will run from December 3rd to the 31st, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily. While there is an admission Fee, it will be well worth it. 

Edgewater Hotel Ice Rink

A must do in Madison is ice skating. While the lakes and ponds take some time to freeze over, weather permitting, The Edgewater Hotel offers an opportunity to ice skate early in the season. The decorating lights around the hotel and the view of Lake Mendota makes it a magical experience. The rink will become available starting December 7th, open from Wednesday to Sunday. Ticket purchase is available online. 

CHT Study Break: Cocoa, Coffee, and Cookies

The ultimate Winter must, however,  will be the CHT Study Break event. On December 19th, there will be cozy warm drinks up for grabs in the Roundhouse office, accompanied by delicious cookies. In addition to that, there will be a gingerbread house competition! The CHT team will present beautifully decorated gingerbread houses, and our residents will have the opportunity to vote for their favorite one. 

Winter Carnival 2023

From February 6 to the 11th, the Wisconsin Union organizes an outdoor Winter Carnival located at the Memorial Union by Lake Mendota . As many may know, the Wisconsin Memorial Union is the perfect spot to sit on a warm Summer day, listening to live music and enjoying a cold drink. However, in the Winter it's just as lively with events. Join the fun and get a chance to pose with Lady Liberty.