For almost 10 years, the Madison Night Market has been a warm weather staple in our city and it has only grown larger overtime. With more than 100 local art, shopping and food vendors, as well as live music, the market offers an unforgettable experience that highlights the city's creative spirit. Hanging out at the night market remains one of the city's favorite free summer things to do. Tell your friends, grab your favorite tote bag and keep scrolling to get the insider scoop on all things Madison Night Market.

When and where is the Madison Night Market held?

The Madison Night Market is held the second Thursday of each month, rain or shine, from 5–9 p.m. Vendors dot several streets around downtown Madison including State Street, Gilman Street, the Capitol Square, North Carroll Street and West Mifflin Street.

2025 Market Dates

  • May 8
  • June 12
  • August 21
  • September 18
  • October 16

What to Expect at the Madison Night Market

From shopping to food carts to family-friendly activities, live music and more, there's a lot to take in. We're here to break it all down for you.

Shopping Local

The market features 90+ local art, clothing, gift and craft vendors lined up throughout downtown. If you've attended the night market before, you'll recognize some friendly faces as well as some first time night market vendors! 

In addition to vendors, many of the State Street businesses keep their doors open later than usual for the market nights. To learn more about which State Street businesses are offering specials and to find a list of participating local vendors, check out the official Madison Night Market website.

Where to eat

If we could recommend one piece of advice before you attend the night market, we'd tell you to come hungry! The 200–400 block of West Gilman Street becomes food truck central during the market. With more than 15 food vendors, you'll be glad you saved room to indulge in all the delicious flavors Madison's foodie scene has to offer.

Are you the type to crave something sweet after a meal? No fret! Mixed in with the street vendors you'll find a variety of treats including bakery items, popsicles and more.

Live music

Finding live music in Madison is never a difficult task ... and we've always said that.

Located on the 400 block of State Street is Lisa Link Peace Park a.k.a where music performances take place during the market. Different artists will be featured at every night market in this intimate concert space. Grab a spot on a bench or spread out on the lawn and take in the music while enjoying an icy bev or bite to eat from the food carts. If you want to keep moving and shopping, you can still enjoy music as other performers and buskers will be scattered throughout the market.

Getting there and parking information

With street closures on market nights, we highly recommend public transit, though there are still plenty of options when it comes to parking downtown. Here are some suggestions. 

Where to park

are plenty of downtown parking garages just a quick walk away from the Capitol Square and State Street . Garage and ramp recommendations include Dayton/Pinckney Garage with entrance/exit points at at 21 E. Dayton Street and 118 N. Pinckney Street, the Tenney Plaza Ramp at 142 E. Main Street or the Madison Opera Parking Lot at 333 W. Mifflin Street. View more downtown parking options here.

Public Transportation

Walking, biking or taking public transportation is highly recommended for large downtown events. With BCycle electric bike rental stations at Peace Park on Gilman Street, the corner of Wisconsin and E. Mifflin Street and the corner of State Street and North Carroll Street, you can roll right up to the action.

If you're opting to take the bus, be sure to check Madison Metro Transit or the Bus Rapid Transit schedules as some routes may shift for the market. 

After the Night Market

Don't want the night to end at 9 p.m.? No worries! There are plenty of bars, restaurants and things to do downtown. 

Food and Drinks

Late Night Drinks