Welcome Week
A page within New Student & Family Programs
Welcome Week
September 8-20, 2026
The Welcome Week 2026 Schedule is ready!
Welcome Week is our celebration of new students! This week's events help students feel comfortable in their new campus environment, learn information you need for your time at UWL, and participate in activities with other students, staff, and community members.
These events are subject to change. Be sure to check back frequently for the most up to date information.
Sept. 8
| Time | Event | Description | Location |
| Ongoing | Free Group Fitness Week |
Kickstart your semester with free access to all Group Fitness classes—no membership required, no pre-registration needed (except cycling). Just bring your Eagle ID or Rec Sports App barcode and show up!
View the class schedule on the Rec Sports app or website. Ready to commit? Save $5 on a semester or academic year Group Fitness Membership with our Early Bird Special (Ends Sunday, September 13 at noon). The easiest way to sign-up is via the Student Billing Online Form. Sponsored by: Rec Sports |
REC |
| 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. | Drop-in Academic Advising |
Uncertain of your major or your fall classes? Stop by during drop-in hours and chat with an academic advisor.
Sponsored by: Academic Advising Center & Career Services |
1209 Centennial Hall |
| 11-11:30 a.m. | Education Abroad 101 |
UWL offers various study abroad/away programs. To start your search, you must attend an Education Abroad 101 session before meeting with an advisor. Sessions occur weekly on Monday at 10am, Tuesday at 11am, and Thursday at 4pm (on regular academic days). No reservation is needed, and you only need to attend once. More details are available on the Education Abroad 101 site.
|
1140 Centennial Hall |
| 1-4 p.m. | Drops with Cops |
Grab a refreshment and meet University Police!
Sponsored by: University Police Department |
Main Floor, Student Union |
| 5:20 p.m. | Theatre/Dance Major/Minor/All Interested Information Meeting |
Come learn what it means to be part of the Theatre and Dance department!
Sponsored by: Department of Theatre and Dance |
Toland Theatre, Lowe Center for the Arts |
| 7-8 p.m. | S'Mores Social |
Join us on the Student Union Lawn for S'Mores and yard games! All are welcome!
Sponsored by: Rainbow Unity |
Student Union Lawn |
| 7 p.m. | New Officials Informational Meeting |
Want to get paid to stay in the game? Join us at one of the Intramural Officials Info Meeting to learn how you can become an Intramural official, build your leadership skills, and earn money with a flexible schedule. No prior experience needed—we’ll train you!
Sponsored by: Rec Sports |
REC Conference Room 161 |
Sept. 9
| Time | Event | Description | Location |
| Ongoing | Free Group Fitness Week |
Kickstart your semester with free access to all Group Fitness classes—no membership required, no pre-registration needed (except cycling). Just bring your Eagle ID or Rec Sports App barcode and show up!
View the class schedule on the Rec Sports app or website. Ready to commit? Save $5 on a semester or academic year Group Fitness Membership with our Early Bird Special (Ends Sunday, September 13 at noon). The easiest way to sign-up is via the Student Billing Online Form. Sponsored by: Rec Sports |
REC |
| 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. | Drop-in Academic Advising |
Uncertain of your major or your fall classes? Stop by during drop-in hours and chat with an academic advisor.
Sponsored by: Academic Advising Center & Career Services and Financial Aid Office |
1209 Centennial Hall |
| 10 a.m.-1 p.m. | Sample the City & Volunteer Fair |
Check out La Crosse area businesses and non-profit organizations as they promote their services right here on campus! Sample free food, pick up free product samples and coupons for future use, and get to know more about the La Crosse area community businesses and services.
Sponsored by: Campus Activities Board (CAB) and Leadership and Involvement Center (LIC) |
Student Union Lawn |
| 10 a.m.-2 p.m. | Part Time Job Fair |
Employers that will be in attendance can be found in Handshake.
Sponsored by: Career Services & Financial Aid Office |
Student Union, Bluffs |
| 12-1 p.m. | Disability Dialogues |
Bring your own lunch and learn about disability with a campus committed to accessibility.
Sponsored by: Disability Resource Center |
3105 Student Union |
| 12:45-2:15 p.m. | Free Cookie Wednesday with LuMin |
Grab a FREE, locally baked cookies from LuMin and celebrate National Suicide Prevention Week with the Peer Health Advocations
Sponsored by: LuMin and Health & Wellness |
Clocktower |
| 1-4 p.m. | Murphy Library Open House |
Stop by Murphy Library and learn all about what is offered. Find your study space, perfect cup of coffee, tutoring and learning assistance, and everything in between. It's one of the hottest spots on campus for a reason!
Sponsored by: Murphy Library |
Murphy Library |
| 6 p.m. | UWL Soccer |
Cheer on your Eagle's as they take on Gustavus Adolphus College! Students get in free with GoFan App!
Sponsored by: Athletics |
Veterans Memorial Sports Complex |
| 6-7 p.m. | Free Inline Skate Ride |
Meet at the Outdoor Connection in the Recreational Eagle Center to join us as we explore the local marsh trails and ride downtown to Riverside Park. Inline skate and helmet rentals are included.
Sponsored by: Rec Sports |
Outdoor Connection |
| 7 p.m. | Welcome Back Bingo |
Welcome Back BINGO with CAB and It Make$ Cents
Join CAB and It Make$ Cents for Welcome Back BINGO! Tons fo fun to kick off the new school year with lots of fun prize packs and gift cards to be won! Wednesday September 9th @ 7 PM in the E-Cafe! Sponsored by: CAB and It Make$ Cents |
Student Union, The Bluffs |
Sept. 10
| Time | Event | Description | Location |
| Ongoing | Free Group Fitness Week |
Kickstart your semester with free access to all Group Fitness classes—no membership required, no pre-registration needed (except cycling). Just bring your Eagle ID or Rec Sports App barcode and show up!
View the class schedule on the Rec Sports app or website. Ready to commit? Save $5 on a semester or academic year Group Fitness Membership with our Early Bird Special (Ends Sunday, September 13 at noon). The easiest way to sign-up is via the Student Billing Online Form. Sponsored by: Rec Sports |
REC |
| 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. | Drop-in Academic Advising |
Uncertain of your major or your fall classes? Stop by during drop-in hours and chat with an academic advisor.
Sponsored by: Academic Advising Center & Career Services |
1209 Centennial Hall |
| 2 p.m.-4:30 p.m. | Campus Thread Closet |
Campus Thread is a FREE UWL community clothing closet. We have jeans, pants, blouses, shirts, skirts, dresses, UWL apparel and career clothing.
Sponsored by: The Center for Civil Dialogue and Civic Engagement |
1120 Centennial Hall |
| 4-4:30 p.m. | Education Abroad 101 |
UWL offers various study abroad/away programs. To start your search, you must attend an Education Abroad 101 session before meeting with an advisor. Sessions occur weekly on Monday at 10am, Tuesday at 11am, and Thursday at 4pm (on regular academic days). No reservation is needed, and you only need to attend once. More details are available on the Education Abroad 101 site.
|
1140 Centennial Hall |
| 4 p.m. | REC Orientation Tour |
New to the Recreational Eagle Center (REC)? This welcoming tour is designed for first-year students, transfer students, and anyone who wants to feel more comfortable using the REC. Participants will explore key spaces, learn where equipment and amenities are located, see how to check out recreation equipment, and discover simple ways to get started. REC staff will also share helpful tips, facility expectations, and insider tricks for making the most of your visits. No workout or prior experience is required—just come ready to explore, ask questions, and learn how the REC can support your recreation, fitness, and well-being.
Sponsored by: Rec Sports |
Meet in REC Lobby |
|
5:30-8 p.m.
Screaming Eagles Marching Band plays at 7 p.m. |
Maroon Tunes: UWL Alumni & Friends night at Moon Tunes |
You're invited to join the UWL Alumni & Friends Foundation for Maroon Tunes, a special Moon Tunes concert celebrating community, connection, and live music. Bring a lawn chair or picnic blanket and enjoy a special performance by the UWL Screaming Eagles Marching Band!
Sponsored by: UWL Alumni & Friends Foundation |
Riverside Park |
| 6:30-8 p.m. | International Student Organization (ISO) Welcome Back Bash |
Please join ISO in a fun evening of games to kick off the start of the Fall 2026 semester. Sponsored by International Student Organization (ISO)
Sponsored by: International Student Organization |
Student Union 3310 |
Sept. 11
| Time | Event | Description | Location |
| Ongoing | Free Group Fitness Week |
Kickstart your semester with free access to all Group Fitness classes—no membership required, no pre-registration needed (except cycling). Just bring your Eagle ID or Rec Sports App barcode and show up!
View the class schedule on the Rec Sports app or website. Ready to commit? Save $5 on a semester or academic year Group Fitness Membership with our Early Bird Special (Ends Sunday, September 13 at noon). The easiest way to sign-up is via the Student Billing Online Form. Sponsored by: Rec Sports |
REC |
| All Day | Free Friday Rentals at Outdoor Connection |
Start your weekend with adventure—on us. Outdoor Connection is offering free gear rentals all day for UWL students. Whether you're into hiking, camping, hammocking, or paddling, this is your chance to explore La Crosse without spending a cent.
All gear is available on a first come, first served basis. Just bring your UWL student ID. Make it a weekend to remember. Try something new. Get outside. Sponsored by: Rec Sports |
Outdoor Connection |
| 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. | Drop-in Academic Advising |
Uncertain of your major or your fall classes? Stop by during drop-in hours and chat with an academic advisor.
Sponsored by: Academic Advising Center & Career Services |
1209 Centennial Hall |
| 4-8 p.m. | Eagle Fest | Join us around campus to enjoy Live Music, Games, Snacks, and FREE Prizes! Visit uwlax.edu/event/eaglefest/ for all event details! | Everywhere! |
| 8-10 p.m. | After Party Silent Disco | Student Union Lawn |
Sept. 12
| Time | Event | Description | Location |
| 12-6 p.m. | Pride in the Park |
Everyone is welcome to attend the City of La Crosse's annual Pride event. This event is free and open to the public. There will be entertainment, food, and lots of organizations that support the LGBTQ+ community. Come on down and say hello to the Pride Center!
Sponsored by: The 7 Rivers Center LGBTQ Connection |
Riverside Park |
| 1 p.m. | UWL Football |
Cheer on your UWL Eagles at their first home game of the season as they take on Hardin-Simmons University! All UWL students get in for free with GoFans app!
Sponsored by: Athletics |
Roger Harring Stadium |
| 5 p.m. | UWL Soccer |
Cheer on your UWL Eagles as they take on Millikin University! All UWL students get in for free with GoFans app!
Sponsored by: Athletics |
Veterans Memorial Field Sports Complex |
Sept. 13
| Time | Event | Description | Location |
| 3:25 p.m. | Packer Game |
Need a place to watch the game? Cheer on the green and gold as they take on the Minnesota Vikings!
Sponsored by: University Centers and New Student and Family Programs |
Entertainment Cafe, Lower Lever Student Union |
Sept. 14
| Time | Event | Description | Location |
| 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. | Drop-in Academic Advising |
Uncertain of your major or your fall classes? Stop by during drop-in hours and chat with an academic advisor.
Sponsored by: Academic Advising Center & Career Services |
1209 Centennial Hall |
| 10-10:30 a.m. | Education Abroad 101 |
UWL offers various study abroad/away programs. To start your search, you must attend an Education Abroad 101 session before meeting with an advisor. Sessions occur weekly on Monday at 10am, Tuesday at 11am, and Thursday at 4pm (on regular academic days). No reservation is needed, and you only need to attend once. More details are available on the Education Abroad 101 site.
|
1140 Centennial Hall |
| 12-1 p.m. | Money Matters @ Murphy Library |
Murphy Library presents...
Money Matters: Financial Literacy Workshop Series with UW Credit Union and It Make$ Cents! Money Management Center It's back! Murphy Library will partner with financial experts from the UW Credit Union and money managers from It Make$ Cents! to teach UWL students about financial literacy. Over the course of five subject-specific workshops on Mondays this fall, students will learn the basics of credit, holiday saving/budgeting, scholarships, and investing during customized one-hour, drop-in events held in Murphy Library. Bring your lunch, questions, and appetite to learn the aspects of financial wellness. Sponsored by: It Make$ Cents and Murphy Library |
121 Murphy Library |
| 5 p.m. | UWL Soccer |
Cheer on your UWL Eagles as they take on Concordia University! All UWL students get in for free with GoFans app!
Sponsored by: Athletics |
Veterans Memorial Sports Complex |
| 6 p.m. | Condom Bingo |
Kick off the semester with some friendly competition! The Peer Health Advocates and Planned Parenthood invite you to Condom Bingo with prizes with Pleasures
Sponsored by: Wellness & Health Advocacy |
Entertainment Cafe, Lower Level of the Student Union |
Sept. 15
| Time | Event | Description | Location |
| 9 a.m.-4 p.m. | Free Credit Check |
Get a better understanding of your finances with an Express Credit Check-up from UW Credit Union. These free, confidential, one-on-one meetings offer the chance to review your finances with a UW Credit Union financial specialist. Tailored to your specific needs, an Express Credit Check-up offers you the chance to take a deep dive into your credit score and explore money-saving opportunities, all in about 30-minutes.
Sponsored by: UW Credit Union |
Student Union, UW Credit Union |
| 11-11:30 a.m. | Education Abroad 101 |
UWL offers various study abroad/away programs. To start your search, you must attend an Education Abroad 101 session before meeting with an advisor. Sessions occur weekly on Monday at 10am, Tuesday at 11am, and Thursday at 4pm (on regular academic days). No reservation is needed, and you only need to attend once. More details are available on the Education Abroad 101 site.
|
1140 Centennial Hall |
| 4-5:30 p.m. | LGBT+ Welcome Social |
Join the Pride Center for dinner, DJ Abby, tables by local non-profits, giveaways, and meet the Pride Center staff, and the executives of Rainbow Unity and Transform.
Sponsored by: The Pride Center |
Student Union Lawn |
| 5:30 p.m. | Rolling in the Dough |
Being a college student can be tough—we get it! But there’s no knead to stress about your dough. Join our financial peer mentors to learn how to make ends meet with confidence. They’ll serve up helpful tips, practical resources, and a bowl of (cookie) dough to sweeten the deal. You’ll leave ready to roll in your own $$ and enjoy the delicious rewards at our cookie dough bar. Smart money moves + sweet treats = a recipe for success. Yum!
It makes cents to learn life-skills! Don't forget! There are two ways to make your time & money count! By attending our events you have the chance to win a $50 scholarship each time! What's even better? Double up your odds to win a $150 scholarship if you attend an event AND come in for a financial consultation. Cha-ching! Sponsored by: It Make$ Cents |
3310 Student Union |
| 5:30-7 p.m. | Auditions: Art in Motion |
Open auditions for Art in Motion: A Concert of Dance. Auditions will be held September 15 at 5:30-7:00 p.m. in the dance studio, 103 Mitchell Hall (UWL). The studio will open at 5:00 p.m. so that auditioners can warm up, etc.
Sponsored by: Department of THeatre & Dance |
Dance Studio, 103A Mitchell Hall |
Sept. 16
| Time | Event | Description | Location |
| 11 a.m.-2 p.m. | Involvement Fair |
Involvement Fest is a campus classic open to all students. Take the first steps to becoming involved at UWL by connecting with more than 100 Student Organizations!
Sponsored by: The Leadership and Involvement Center |
Student Union Lawn |
| 1-4 p.m. | Drops with Cops |
Grab a refreshment and meet University Police!
Sponsored by: University Police Department |
Main Floor, Student Union |
| 6 p.m. | Outdoor Yoga: Real Talk |
Real Talk is a monthly program designed to engage in conversations about their well-being. To create a welcoming and authentic environment, we encourage students to join us with open minds and bring a friend! Join us for an outdoor yoga class and explore ways to build healthy habits for the new semester.
Sponsored by: Wellness & Health Advocacy |
Drake Field |
Sept. 17
| Time | Event | Description | Location |
| 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. | CAB Lunchtime Event |
Every Thursday, from 11:30AM-1:30PM in the E-Cafe, join CAB for a lunchtime event! Take a break between classes and enjoy a different fun event each week! We'll see you then!
Sponsored by: CAB |
Student Union, Entertainment Cafe |
| 12:40 p.m. | Yalla Drum and Pizza |
Yalla Drum is a community Arabic percussion ensemble based in Minneapolis and presented by New Arab American Theater Works. The ensemble brings together people of diverse backgrounds and experience levels to learn, preserve, and share the rich rhythmic traditions of the Southwest Asian and North African (SWANA) region through performance, education, and community engagement. Their performances feature traditional rhythms and interactive audience participation, offering an engaging introduction to Arabic music and culture while celebrating the power of rhythm to connect people across communities.
Sponsored by: UWL Music |
Lowe Center for the Arts, Annett Recital Hall |
| 1-4 p.m. | Murphy Library Open House |
Stop by Murphy Library and learn all about what is offered. Find your study space, perfect cup of coffee, tutoring and learning assistance, and everything in between. It's one of the hottest spots on campus for a reason!
Sponsored by: Murphy Library |
Murphy Library |
| 4-4:30 p.m. | Education Abroad 101 |
UWL offers various study abroad/away programs. To start your search, you must attend an Education Abroad 101 session before meeting with an advisor. Sessions occur weekly on Monday at 10am, Tuesday at 11am, and Thursday at 4pm (on regular academic days). No reservation is needed, and you only need to attend once. More details are available on the Education Abroad 101 site.
|
1140 Centennial Hall |
| 4:30-6 p.m. | Strength Redefined |
Strength Redefined is a special program designed to help you feel confident and comfortable in the Fitness Center. Whether you're new to lifting or just prefer a more relaxed environment, this program is for you. Everyone is welcome—regardless of experience level—as long as you support this welcoming space.
Pre-registration is required. Click the link or visit the Rec Sports website or app to view the full schedule and reserve your spot. Sponsored by: Rec Sports |
REC Fitness Center |
| 6-7 p.m. | Tie Dye with Transform |
We'll provide the bandanas, t-shirts, and tie dye! All are welcome!
Sponsored by: Transform |
Student Union Lawn |
Sept. 18
| Time | Event | Description | Location |
| 6 p.m. | Outdoor Yoga |
Take time for yourself with Yoga while connecting with others under the sun! This FREE class is for everyone and provides numerous options/variations. Taught by a certified Rec Sports yoga instructor. Yoga mats will be provided. No pre-registration or group fitness membership required. Rain site: Recreational Eagle Center
Sponsored by: Rec Sports |
Drake Field |
| 7 p.m. | Eagles @ Nite: Casino Night! |
Casino Night! Try your luck at casino games; maybe you'll hit the jackpot!
Sponsored by: Eagles @ Nite |
Entertainment Cafe, Student Union (Lower Level) |
Sept. 19
| Time | Event | Description | Location |
| 11 a.m. | Sand Blast 4v4 Sand Volleyball Tournament |
Start your semester with some sun, sand, and friendly competition! The Sand Volleyball Tournament is a 4v4 showdown with pool play in the morning and a single-elimination bracket in the afternoon.
$10 per team Play starts at 11:00am on courts across campus Register on IMLeagues before the deadline hits. Register by Thursday, Sept 17. Sponsored by: Rec Sports |
Volleyball Courts around campus |
| 12:30-1 p.m. | Cru Beanbag Tournament Registration | Eagle/Coate Field | |
| 1-6 p.m. | Cru Beanbag Tournament |
Whether you call it corn hole or bags, come join Cru for our 3rd annual bean bag tournament! Find a teammate, warm up the ‘ol arm, and try your hand at winning some prizes playing against other competitors. We’ll also have chances to win raffle prizes along with free food, drinks, and snacks for all who come! For information on how to register, visit a weekly meeting on Thursdays at 8:00 PM in 260 Graff Hall.
Sponsored by: Cru |
Eagle/Coate Field |
Sept. 20
| Time | Event | Description | Location |
| 11 a.m. | UWL Men's and Women’s Tennis |
Cheer on your UWL Eagles as they take on Carroll University! All UWL students get in for free with GoFans app!
Sponsored by: Athletics |
Central High School |
| 12 p.m. | Packer Game |
Need a place to watch the game? Cheer on the green and gold as they take on the New York Jets!
Sponsored by: University Centers and New Student and Family Programs |
Student Union, Entertainment Cafe |
| 5 p.m. | 8th Annual Game Day in the Vineyard with the Screaming Eagles |
Enjoy the energy and excitement of the Screaming Eagles Marching Band in a festive outdoor performance at Elmaro Vineyard.
This is a ticketed event |
Elmaro Vineyard, Trempealeau, WI. |
