- Event Overview
About
Madison, WI
Santa Pub Crawls
Madison’s SantaCon brings the City of Four Lakes’ bar culture and Wisconsin holiday spirit to one of the most politically and creatively charged December celebrations in the Midwest. State Street and the downtown Madison bar district are the heart of Badger State nightlife and when SantaCon arrives the combination of University of Wisconsin Badger energy, the progressive state capital community, and the excellent local bars creates a holiday celebration with a Madison quality that is warm, creative, and completely Wisconsin.
Madison is consistently ranked among the best college towns in America and the SantaCon reflects that quality. State Street is one of the finest bar corridors in the Midwest and the Santa costume competition draws on the UW community, the Capitol Hill arts scene, and the progressive Madison creative community to produce entries that are imaginative, well-crafted, and genuinely enthusiastic.
December in Madison is cold, typically ranging from 15 to 22 degrees at night, with Wisconsin lake-effect snow possible from the surrounding lakes. The Madison winter is serious and State Street’s warm bar community provides the ideal SantaCon setting with holiday lights reflecting off the nearby lakes.
Our hosts manage the Madison route through State Street and the downtown bar district. Specials confirmed at every stop, wristbands handle entry, and the Santa competition celebrates Badger State creativity.
Event Details
Everything you need to know about the largest SantaCon pub crawl in Madison.
Largest Pub Crawl Event
Top SantaCon Bar Crawl in Madison.
40,000+ Attendees
Thousands join the annual SantaCon pub crawl
100+ Participating Bars
Organized Event
- What's Included
What You Get With a Pub Crawl Ticket
Pub crawls for the biggest party holidays. Choose your event and join the party in 100+ cities across the USA.
Santa Costume Contest
Best Santa outfit wins a prize. Creativity and commitment both count.
Welcome Shot at Check-In
One complimentary shot poured the moment you arrive.
Bar-to-Bar Drink Specials
Exclusive SantaCon pricing at every stop on the route.
Official SantaCon Wristband
One wristband unlocks every participating bar.
On-Site SantaCon Hosts
Our team keeps the route moving and the costume judging fair.
Priority Entry at Select Venues
Skip the line at participating bars with your wristband.
Holiday Party Accessories
Festive gear handed out at check-in.
Curated Bar Route
Stops selected for atmosphere, drink quality, and Santa energy.
Participating Venues on the Pub Crawl Route
Explore the most popular bars and nightlife venues in Madison during the SantaCon pub crawl. Each participating venue features exclusive drink specials, music, and a unique atmosphere.
How the Pub Crawl Works
Four simple steps to join the SantaCon pub crawl and start bar hopping.
Secure your spot at pubcrawls.com. Tickets sell out in popular cities.
Check-in address is in your confirmation email. Don't be late for the welcome drink.
Get your drink, gear, and wristband at the first stop. The route starts moving at 7:30 PM.
Our hosts keep the energy high and the route on schedule all night.
Event Agendas
Your complete SantaCon pub crawl timeline from check-in to after-party.
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about the Madison SantaCon Bar Crawl 2026
What do I wear?
A Santa costume is the theme. Full suit, Santa hat, or creative Santa spin all work.
Where does it start?
Madison WI. Exact address in your ticket confirmation email.
What's the weather like in December?
Madison WI in December averages 15 to 22 degrees. Cold Wisconsin winter. Serious layering under your Santa suit is required.
What is included?
Welcome drink, wristband, drink specials at every stop, holiday accessories, and the costume contest.
Is there a group option?
Groups of ten or more receive priority entry. Contact pubcrawls.com for group packages.
Age requirement?
21 and over. Valid photo ID required at check-in.
Can I buy tickets at the door?
Subject to availability. Advance purchase strongly recommended.
How many bars are on the route?
Typically four to six stops. Full route details in your confirmation.
