Summer in Madison starts with a bang. Or should we say it starts with bangers? World’s Largest Brat Fest has long been considered the kickoff to summer in the capital city, drawing visitors from near and far for three days of live music and one of Wisconsin’s most beloved foods: brats. Across town, Vegan Sausage Fest offers a plant-based version of the tradition, featuring vegan eateries from across the Midwest alongside live music. In true Madison fashion, there’s more than just one way to celebrate over the Memorial Day Weekend.

Grills are sizzlin', people are groovin' to live music and these culinary festivals are can’t-miss Memorial Day Weekend events in Madison! Read on and find out why you should attend.

Jump around to plan your "kickoff to summer" weekend in Madison:

World’s Largest Brat Fest

For over 40 years, this volunteer-run nonprofit event has brought the community together for a Memorial Day Weekend celebration. From classic Johnsonville sausages to cheddar chicken or vegetarian bratwursts, we can guarantee the hype around the brats is warranted. Enjoy with a craft beer, wine or spirit from a local Wisconsin distributor, followed by ice cream…what more could you ask for?

Of course, live music is a large part of this fest, too. Each day, discover a different lineup of musical artists ranging from country and rock, to pop and indie. Traveling with the kiddos? No worries! Brat Fest is a super family-friendly festival. From the Kids Zone to the Sports Zone to the Farm Zone there is non-stop fun for both kids and adults.

Benefiting over 100 local charities, the fest is more than just food, drinks and live entertainment—it's coming together and giving back to our community, making it even more special. For all the details, check out Brat Fest’s website.

Know Before You Go:

  • Date: Friday, May 22–Sunday, May 24
  • Time: 6 a.m. (Take Your Brat to Work Day*) to 10 p.m. on Friday; 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturday; 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Sunday
  • Location: Alliant Energy Center
  • Cost: Free
  • Parking: Free, on-site parking. The main entrance is off of Rimrock Road. Find more parking info here.

*Take Your Brat to Work Day is a Brat Fest tradition where you can drive up to the grill and purchase your brats to-go! For our local brat lovers, bring them into the office and treat your coworkers. If you're visiting for the fest, grab some bangers for breakfast and enjoy them back at your hotel!

Back to top.

Vegan Sausage Fest

The festival for plant-based foodies is back for its fourth year! A variety of vendors from Midwest cities including Madison, Milwaukee and Chicago will showcase their vegan dishes at this lively event. With traditional vegan brats, unique spins on vegan sausages, picnic-themed side dishes like dairy-free mac and cheese, plus vegan desserts, we promise you will not leave the fest hungry! Sip on refreshing homemade lemonade, locally-brewed beers and other beverages while enjoying fun games, live music and delicious eats.

This eco-friendly, cruelty-free fest brings the community together to kick off the season of sunshine, good food and fun fests galore! Find all the details and a list of this year’s vendors on the festival’s website.

Know Before You Go:

  • Date: Saturday, May 23
  • Time: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
  • Location: Breese Stevens Field
  • Cost: Free
  • Parking: Public transportation, Madison Metro Transit, BRT, taxis, Ubers, Lyfts and other rideshare services are highly encouraged. Free, street parking is available in non-residential areas. Paid parking lots within walking distance are likely available. Find all parking information here.

Back to top.

More Things to do during the Kickoff to Summer Weekend

When you’re not enjoying live music and bangers, find more ways to explore the capital city and make the most of your Memorial Day Weekend in Madison! For a full list of events and fests, check out our events calendar.

Madison Eats Food Tours

Experience even more of Madison's culinary culture by joining a Madison Eats Food Tour. Check out the guided tours happening over this event weekend and claim your spot today.

Farmers' Market on the Square

Start your Saturday morning at the largest producer-only farmers’ market in the country. The Dane County Farmers’ Market is located on the Capitol Square and is a Madison staple in the summer. Get all the tips on how to shop the market like a local to ensure the best possible experience.

Self-Guided Tours & Tastings

With our free experience passes, you can choose your own adventure and explore the city your way! Discover the most iconic food in the capital city with Madison’s Iconic Eats Experience—a self-guided food tour where you can earn prizes while eating at delicious local spots. For our craft beverage lovers, sign up for Madison on Tap—your free roadmap to 30+ breweries, distilleries and wineries throughout the Madison area. Get discounts and win prizes along the way!

Discover Madison's Five Lakes

In Madison, we make it easy to experience our lakes with boat rentals on Lake Mendota, Monona and Wingra. Try kayaking, canoeing, SUPing and more watersports at Brittingham Boats, Wingra Boats, Outdoor UW or Rutabaga at Olbrich Park. If staying on land is preferred, enjoy a picnic at a lakeside park or take a walk along one of the shorelines while experiencing the stunning views.

Back to top.

Recommended Hotels

All this summer fun is best enjoyed over the full weekend. These recommended hotels are conveniently located near Alliant Energy Center or Breese Stevens Field, making your commute to either fest easy and accessible! View the map below for hotel locations.

Near Alliant Energy Center:

Near Breese Stevens Field:

Back to top.