trivia madison

Trivia Madison: Delving into the World’s Largest Trivia Contest

Trivia Madison, officially known as “The World’s Largest Trivia Contest,” is an annual trivia competition held in Stevens Point, Wisconsin, organized by radio station WWSP 90 FM, also known as 90FM. The contest, spanning a full weekend, tests teams’ knowledge on a wide array of subjects, and has become a cultural phenomenon in the region and beyond.

The History and Format of Trivia Madison

The contest began in 1969 and has grown to encompass thousands of players across hundreds of teams. The core of Trivia Madison involves answering eight questions per hour for 54 consecutive hours. Teams phone in their answers to 90FM, hoping to be among the first correct respondents. Points are awarded based on speed and accuracy. The questions are notoriously obscure and often require extensive research or creative thinking.

What Makes Trivia Madison Unique?

Several factors contribute to Trivia Madison’s unique appeal. The contest’s length is a significant draw – a continuous 54-hour marathon. Furthermore, the questions themselves are crafted to be challenging and quirky. The contest’s reliance on traditional radio communication also adds a vintage feel, contrasting with modern digital quiz formats. The spirit of camaraderie and competition among teams is another key element, creating a lively and engaging atmosphere.

How to Participate in Trivia Madison

To participate, teams must register with 90FM well in advance of the contest weekend. Teams can be located anywhere, though those within the Stevens Point listening area often have an advantage due to potential local clues in the questions. Registration details, rules, and past contest information can typically be found on the 90FM website. Preparation is key – teams often gather extensive resources and delegate specific areas of expertise to different members.

The Impact of Trivia Madison

Trivia Madison has a significant impact on the Stevens Point community, bringing thousands of visitors to the city each year. It also raises funds for 90FM, a student-run radio station at the University of Wisconsin–Stevens Point. The contest has inspired similar trivia events around the world, cementing its place in trivia history. More about the history can be found at Wikipedia’s article on Trivia Contests.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some examples of trivia questions asked?

Questions can range from identifying obscure historical figures to naming B-side tracks of popular songs, or even solving complex riddles related to pop culture. They are designed to be difficult and often require collaborative research.

How are teams scored?

Teams earn points based on the speed and accuracy of their answers. The first team to call in the correct answer typically receives the most points for that question.

When is Trivia Madison held?

The contest is typically held annually during a weekend in April.

What is the prize for winning?

While bragging rights are the primary reward, the winning team also receives a trophy and eternal glory within the Trivia Madison community.

How can I listen to Trivia Madison?

The contest is broadcast live on 90FM WWSP and often streamed online via the station’s website.

Summary

Trivia Madison is more than just a trivia contest; it’s a cultural institution that combines knowledge, teamwork, and a love of obscure facts. Its unique format and challenging questions have made it a beloved tradition for participants and listeners alike, continuing to thrive in the digital age.