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How Bucky Badger spends his summer

It’s a year-round job representing the University of Wisconsin–Madison with a red-and-white-striped shirt, a large furry head and irrepressible energy. Summer is an increasingly busy time for Bucky Badger, given the growing number of courses and activities on campus. Since the start of Summer Term, everybody’s favorite mascot has been popping up around town to do what he does best: striking dramatic poses, high-fiving awestruck fans, and whipping up enthusiasm for the world’s greatest university.

Here’s a sampling of Bucky’s jam-packed summer schedule.

Bucky’s Workout

Camp Randall Stadium, May 23

Bucky joined UW-Madison faculty, staff, and students for a midday workout to celebrate the end of spring semester and the start of Summer Term. He strutted through the crowd like a seven-foot aerobics instructor, keeping the energy level high. Sure, he stole the occasional water bottle just for fun, but that only took everyone’s mind off the blazing heat.

Photo by David Giroux
Photo by David Giroux
Photo by David Giroux

Brat Fest

Willow Island at Alliant Energy Center, May 27

Bucky didn’t let a full coat of fur stop him from zipping around Brat Fest in 95-degree temperatures. Smiles broke out wherever he stopped, from food stands to firetrucks. At one of the music stages, a hard-rock foursome was surprised to find it had temporarily become a quintet.

Bucky Badger at Brat Fest

Bucky Badger at Brat Fest

Bucky Badger at Brat Fest

Monona Memorial Day Parade

Monona Drive, May 28

With competition from floats and flags, bagpipers and marching bands, Bucky still stood out on Memorial Day. It’s no wonder everyone wanted a picture with him. The guy’s a red-and-white rock star.

Bucky Badger at Monona Memorial Day Parade

Bucky Badger at Monona Memorial Day Parade

Bucky Badger at Monona Memorial Day Parade

All in a day’s work for Bucky.