University of Wisconsin-Madison

Featured Event: Earth Fest Forum

The Earth Fest Forum will be held April 21, 2026. Last year's forum was a day of art, action, and stories of resilience as we explored what it means to show up for the planet, each other, and ourselves. The event featured inspiring speakers, interactive art, and demonstrated how we can build emotional resilience for the work ahead.

Highlights from 2025

Earth Signals Concert

We explored the tropical Pacific climate through sound with an unforgettable concert at the Hamel Music Center.

Planetwalker Screening

John Francis' 17-year journey across America on foot and in silence redefined environmental activism. This event featured a screening of the film that was shortlisted for the 2025 Oscars and an appearance from Francis himself.

Sustainability Roundtable Dinner

Students, faculty, and community members came together for an evening of food, community, and conversation about UW–Madison’s energy future.

Green Cities, Green Students Resource Fair

We learned about the critical role of utility services in our communities and discovered how improvements in energy efficiency can lower emissions and your energy bills.

Spring Wildflower Walk

A celebration of spring with a nature walk in the UW Lakeshore Nature Preserve to look for spring ephemeral wildflowers.

Civil Rights Activism and Agriculture: A Family That Kept the Land

Though most Great Migration scholarship focuses on those who left the south, millions of African American farmer families stayed. We explored the story of one such family — the Paris family — whose legacy offers a lesson of resistance and resilience.

What is Earth Fest?

Earth Fest is for all members of the Badger community: from students to alumni, faculty to friends, and seasoned experts to future Badgers. Dive into groundbreaking research or dig in the dirt as you pot your own plant. Sift and winnow the latest research or sort and filter recyclables. Make career connections for your future or master sustainable techniques for your home.

For Your Listening Pleasure

Engage your auditory senses with our Earth Fest-themed playlist.