'Tis the season to head to downtown Madison for the perfect winter celebration and holiday shopping. From holiday lights and the famous tree in the Capitol to carolers and a holiday trolley, plan for a festive frolic right in the heart of the city with these upcoming events.
Holiday Fantasy in Lights
Grab a hot cocoa and drive through a magical winter scene at Olin Park every night from dusk til dawn until December 31.
Holiday Dane County Farmers' Market
Every Saturday leading up to Christmas weekend, the Dane County Farmers' Market is holding an indoor holiday market at Monona Terrace Community & Convention Center. This bustling market features more than 60 vendors and is your one-stop shop for all of your local food needs for the holidays.
Madison Winter Night Market
The Madison Night Market is back one more time in 2022 with an outdoor winter shopping experience for the whole family. On Saturday, November 19, from 4-8 p.m., walk up and down State Street and peruse unique gifts in a festive, outdoor experience. From seasonal cards, gifts and décor to tasty treats, you're bound to find something for everyone on your list. Businesses are encouraged to stay open late for this one-of-a-kind downtown shopping extravaganza. At 6:08 p.m., join Santa, Mrs. Claus and other special guests as the seasonal lighting celebration marks the start of downtown holiday lights.
Holiday Open House & Shopping Trolley
On the weekend of November 25-27, take part in the Holiday Open House, a downtown Madison tradition that jump-starts seasonal shopping with early Thanksgiving weekend sales. During this weekend, enjoy gift bags (while supplies last) filled with goodies, coupons, promo items and more if you ride the Holiday Shopping Trolley.
Holiday Carolers
Every Saturday in December, enjoy local choirs as they spread holiday cheer by caroling downtown.
Wisconsin State Capitol Tree Lighting
Head inside the Capitol Rotunda on December 3 at 12 p.m. for an hour-long presentation with remarks from the Governor and music from a youth choir before the Capitol tree is light up for the season. Learn where this year's giant tree is from, and see the ornaments created by kids from across Wisconsin.
Fair Trade Holiday Festival
Looking for unique, socially responsible, handmade gifts this year? If so, you can enjoy the fun and festive atmosphere of the 26th Annual Fair Trade Holiday Festival on Saturday, December 3 at Monona Terrace Community & Convention Center. There will be hundreds of fairly-traded, international products for you to choose from--the handiwork of weavers, knitters, metal-workers, wood-carvers, and creative artists from around the world.
Find holiday cheer in every corner of downtown Madison this year with these events and more. And for ever more Madison holiday magic, check out our Guide to the Holidays.
