MADISON, Wis. — The first day of the football season kicked off on Saturday. Thousands of fans made their way to Camp Randall Stadium in downtown Madison to see the first game.
Before the game began, Union South hosted the Badger Bash, a 50-year-old tradition and tailgate event.
Jim Long, associate director for Dining and Hospitality, said it always draws in thousands of people looking to eat and drink before the big game.
“The location here at Union South was built so the curvature of the building, the plaza steps, that was all built because of Badger Bash,” said Long.
Long said one of his favorite Badger Bash events is when the University of Wisconsin marching band starts around 3:30 p.m.
Long has been working for the Wisconsin Union for almost 28 years and he said he loves being able to work with the youth.
“I got to say that through the years, what’s kept me feeling invigorated and young is just watching them grow as a staff,” said Long.
The Badger Bash starts two and a half hours before kickoff every home game. Long said he hopes people will stop by and enjoy some food and drinks at what Union South calls “gameday’s best tailgate.”