Top Festivals and Fairs in Madison
If you're looking for festivals and fairs in Madison, you've come to the right place.
These epic events are some of the best Madison has to offer. Think music festivals with all the best up-and-coming artists. Food festivals that feature dozens of delicious local dishes. Makers' markets where you will uncover great gifts and funky finds. Plus dozens of cultural celebrations that reflect the rich history and incredible people of our great city.
Madison's festivals will take you on a journey throughout the region. Discover new neighborhoods, surrounding communities rich with unique personalities and a downtown brimming with exciting things to do.
Don't know where to begin? Discover the top event weekends to visit in 2026.
Check out our event calendar for a full list of all events happening in Madison.
February
Winter Carnival | February 5–7
This annual carnival offers so much to do, from 3D snowflake making to snowshoe rentals and the appearance of Lady Liberty on Lake Mendota Enjoy all things winter in the heart of UW Madison’s campus.
Frozen Assets Festival | February 7–8
A 5K held entirely on the ice? Count us in. After the race, stay for free family-friendly activities on the ice hosted at the historic Edgewater Hotel.
Scandihoovian Winter Festival | February 7–8
One chilly weekend every February, the people of Mount Horeb don their red pointy hats as they celebrate the town's Scandinavian heritage. All are welcome to join in this weekend-long, family-friendly celebration of winter.
Self-Discovery Weekend and Winter Getaway | February 20–21
Escape the winter blues and join the Monona East Side Business Alliance for a transformative experience. This event is designed to breathe new life into the slower winter months. Ideal for adventurous souls seeking new opportunities.
Bockfest | February 28
What’s more beautiful than celebrating beer with your besties? Bockfest happens at Capital Brewery every year to honor the release of the brewery's award-winning Blonde Doppelbock and Maibock. Celebrate with great beer, rockin' music and your best buds.
Fringe Festival | February 28–March 1
This weekend long arts festival at Overture Center for the Arts is a celebration of creative energy around the globe, inspired by Edinburgh Fringe Festival. This festival features six one-of-a-kind performances, including improv, magic, theater and comedy.
Lunar New Year Celebration | TBD 2026
Downtown Madison is the place to celebrate Lunar New Year! State Street comes alive as Chinese Lion Dancers make their way down the street, stopping by stores and restaurants along the way, arriving at Lisa Link Peace Park for their celebratory performance.
March
Fringe Festival | February 28–March 1
This weekend long arts festival at the Overture Center is a celebration of creative energy around the globe, inspired by Edinburgh Fringe Festival. This festival features six one-of-a-kind performances, including improv, magic, theater and comedy.
International Festival | March 7
Join in the celebration of Madison' rich cultural heritage and diversity. Taking place at the Overture Center, this event offers free performances, food from across the world, art available for purchase and more.
Wisconsin Vintage Fest | March 8
Shop the state's premiere vintage market at the Monona Terrace Community and Convention Center! A handpicked selection of vendors will be offering clothing, accessories, home goods, records and more.
Femmestival | March 14
Celebrate and uplift women, femmes and nonbinary entrepreneurs, artists, and producers in a space that cultivates economic inclusivity, equity and proliferation.
Madison Shamrock Shuffle | March 14
The Madison Shamrock Shuffle happens year around St. Patrick’s Day. The race will start and finish on the 600 Block of State Street.
St. Patrick's Day Parade | March 15
It's time for 'the wearing of the green!' Bring your family and friends and gather around the Capitol Square for the 24th annual St. Patrick's Day celebration.
The Big Gay Spring Market | March 15
Celebrate the warmer weather and queer joy at Wisconsin Rugby Club. Shopping local queer and ally vendors, eat delicious food from local food trucks and enjoy tasty drinks.
April
Wisconsin Film Festival | April 9–16
We’ve all had our fair share of Netflix binges. Sure, they're fun, but there's something special about sitting in a theater. No distractions. No ads. No notifications. At the Wisconsin Film Festival, it’s time to sit back, relax and enjoy the magic of big-screen shows.
Wisconsin Cider and Mead Festival | April 11
Mershon's Cidery in Stoughton will be offering the largest selection of Cider and Mead in Wisconsin, featuring 20 unique Cider and Mead Brands and over 60 different offerings to try.
Midwest Horse Fair | April 17–19
The Midwest Horse Fair is the top three-day horse fair in America hosted at Alliant Energy Center. Every year the fair gets bigger and better.
Doundrins Annual Bloody Mary Fest | April 18
The Annual Bloody Mary Fest at Doundrins Distilling in Cottage Grove is your opportunity to sample Bloody Marys from dozens of bars and restaurants and vote for your favorite.
Sprout Spring Market | April 25–26
Discover handmade treasures, unique artworks, ingenious creations and more at this free annual celebration of local artisans. Enjoy live music, delicious treats and food trucks throughout the market at Warm Belly Farm in Cottage Grove.
May
Latino Art Fair | May 2
Celebrate the heritage of Latino art and culture with artists throughout Wisconsin selling and exhibiting paintings, pottery, jewelry and more.
Madison Derby Party at The Edgewater | May 2
Join us for the 9th annual Derby Party featuring live music from local Madison bands. Play race day inspired yard games like ring toss, bags, shuffleboard and more! Derby attire not required, but encouraged.
Uncork Me Wisconsin | May 9
Yard games, snacks and ice cream accompany this all-you-can-sample wine event at Breese Stevens Field.
Syttende Mai Norwegian Heritage Festival | May 15–17
Come for the food, stay for the Viking Games. It’s three full days of parades, food, drinks, art, music, athletic competitions and kids’ activities, all centered around Norwegian cultural traditions.
World's Largest Brat Fest | May 23–25
The World’s Largest Brat Fest happens in Madison. Over 40 years after its small parking lot start, the family-friendly event features 100 free musical acts, fireworks, a carnival and of course, brats. Brat Fest has donated more than $2 million to local charities since 1983.
Vegan Sausage Fest | May 23
Head to Ahsuka Park in Monona for this free fest and enjoy delicious food options for a variety of plant-based vendors!
Verona Hometown Days | May 29–31
When they call Verona "Hometown, USA," they mean it! This festival is a family event full of music, carnival attractions and kid's activities, and serves as a fundraiser for local nonprofits.
Distill America XVIII | May 30
Distill America is returning to Breese Stevens Field! Celebrate American craft distilling with tastings from various national and local vendors, delicious food and more!
Festa Italia | May 30–31
Hosted by the Italian Workmen's Club, this annual event in Fitchburg is a three-day celebration of family, food and Italian culture.
Madison Night Market | TBA 2026
The annual Madison Night Market takes place on five Thursdays throughout the year. With local art, food, produce and shopping vendors lined up and down State Street along with live music, food trucks and pop-up restaurant experiences, downtown Madison is the place to be on a Thursday night.
Midwest Vintage Flea | TBA 2026
Shop 40+ established and up-and-coming vintage stores and independent vendors during the state’s largest vintage clothing trade event at Garver Feed Mill.
LunART Festival | TBA 2026
LunART is an annual festival in Madison dedicated to promoting women’s creativity in the arts. See website for more information and for the full festival schedule.
Madison Irish Fest | TBA 2026
Enjoy all things Irish music, food, drinks, dancing and more! One ticket gets you three days of fun at three locations including Awildan Distilling, Four Winds Farm and Garver Feed Mill.
AAPI Celebration | TBA 2026
This event unites Asian American and Pacific Islanders to celebrate their incredible cultures, traditions and stories of their communities. Enjoy a day full of delicious food, live music and performances, kid's activities, an Asian heritage exhibit and more at Madison College.
June
CapitalQ Theatre Festival | June 5–7 & June 11–13
Join in the fun at this annual pride month celebration when StageQ takes over the Drury stage for two weekends. See new play readings, 10-minute shorts and one-plays by up-and-coming queer playwrights from around the country.
Mad Gluten Free Fest | June 7
Head to Breese Stevens Field for this vibrant, family-friendly fest celebrating gluten-free cuisine from local food vendors.
Mount Horeb Summer Frolic | June 11–14
Nothing says summer like a good frolic. Kick off your summer with a full weekend of entertainment including a carnival, live music, the Norsk Run, basketball, volleyball, fireworks, a parade and more.
New Glarus Polkafest | June 12–13
Step into Switzerland with a tribute to Roger Bright, a beloved figure in the polka world. Celebrate with live polka music, local beer and lively dancing.
Beer, Bacon & Cheese Fest | June 13
Attention foodies! The New Glarus Beer, Bacon & Cheese Fest is an afternoon of sampling some of the region’s most unforgettable flavors.
Marquette Waterfront Festival | June 13–14
This annual music festival also features the iconic Fools Floatilla, an eccentric float down the Yahara River with hundreds of your new best friends. Enjoy live music on the lakeshore, games, unique vendors and more.
Midwest Fire Fest | June 13–14
This is the hottest event in the Midwest. Midwest Fire Fest is a celebration of all things created with fire, heat and smoke including clay, metal arts, glass and more. There is an onsite firing and reveal of a giant clay sculpture, community iron pour, fire dancers, Saturday night’s fire feast and smoking hot music all weekend.
Harry Whitehorse International Woodcarving Festival | June 19–27
This international fest will feature artists from Turkey, France, Czech Republic, Germany, Poland, Yukon Territory, Switzerland, Peru and Ukraine. Watch the incredible process as these artists transform huge locally collected trees, into beautiful pieces of art from the shade of hand-built wigwams.
Taste of Stoughton | June 20
Local Stoughton restaurants offer up the best of their menus for this food festival. Of course, you can’t have local fare without local beer, cider, wine and live music. Taste of Stoughton has it all.
Make Music Madison | June 21
Join us as Madison comes alive with sound on World Music Day. Free outdoor performances will pop up across the city and showcase a variety of genres at venues you might not expect.
Madison Jazz Festival | TBA 2026
The Madison Jazz Festival returns with 10 days of jazz across Greater Madison, including two days at the Memorial Union Terrace. Don't miss free concerts, presentations and ticketed shows featuring some of today's finest jazz artists.
Madison Night Market | TBA 2026
The annual Madison Night Market takes place on five Thursdays throughout the year. With local art, food, produce and shopping vendors lined up and down State Street along with live music, food trucks and pop-up restaurant experiences, downtown Madison is the place to be on a Thursday night.
Delta Pride Celebration | TBA 2026
Celebrate LGBTQ+ Pride at Delta Beer Lab with live music, local food vendors and specialty cocktails. Queer-friendly local vendors, nonprofits and community organizations will be present with booths to visit and learn more. Mark your calendars and bring your friends!
The Big Gay Pride Market | TBA 2026
Show off your LGBTQ+ Pride at Alliant Energy Center with three days of activities including queer comedy shows, shopping, a drag show, drag bingo and more!
Heidi Folk Festival | TBA 2026
Experience the European flavor only New Glarus — lovingly-known as Little Switzerland — can offer. This weekend-long celebration is highlighted by local actors recreating the classic play, Heidi.
SummerPalooza | TBA 2026
Summer comes screaming in with family fun at the Madison Children's Museum. Free admission to the museum, free performances outside and more are in store.
Schumacher Farm Summer Lawn Party | TBA 2026
Schumacher Farm Park's summer lawn party features live music by the Waunnastrummers, lawn games and evening refreshments.
Strawberry Fest | TBA 2026
Strawberries invade the Fitchburg Farmers' Market! Grab a Culver’s strawberry sundae, enjoy live music and discover lots of strawberry themed offerings.
Juneteenth Celebration | TBA 2026
Hosted by Kujichagulia-Madison Center for Self Determination, this historical celebration of Black American emancipation, history and influence on American history and culture will take place over the weekend of June 19 featuring a parade followed by a park celebration.
The Sessions at Garver Feed Mill | TBA 2026
Catch musical performances all weekend long during the Sessions at Garver Feed Mill. Check the website for the full 2025 schedule and line up!
Bodega Night Market | TBA 2026
The Bodega at Breese Stevens Field hosts more than 60 local artisans and food vendors. Shop local, enjoy family friendly entertainment and yard games, plus food and drink options at this unique night market.
July
Stoughton Fair | July 1–5
From 4-H and bingo to a barn dance and a fish fry, the Stoughton Fair connects you to the local agricultural community in a fun, interactive way.
Monona Community Festival | July 3–4
This festival takes place in one of Wisconsin's most beautiful community parks and features a craft fair, carnival, fireworks, live performances and the Wisconsin Wife Carry Championship.
WaunaBoom | July 4
Celebrate Independence Day with live music, free family activities, food and a large firework show.
La Fête de Marquette | July 9–12
This iconic summer festival is free and features dozens of musical acts, fare from local restaurants and a movie under the stars.
Art Fair on the Square | July 11–12
With its mix of music, entertainment and outdoor dining, as well as more than 500 artists exhibiting paintings, prints, photographs, sculpture, jewelry, handmade clothing and accessories, and fine craft, this fair draws nearly 200,000 visitors to Madison’s Capitol Square every year.
Dane County Fair | July 16–19
Ah, the magic of the county fair. This one features a world-class carnival, free nightly concerts, great food, animals, youth projects and commercial exhibitors.
New Glarus Blues, Brews & Food Truck Festival | July 18
Jam with local musicians while you savor craft beers from New Glarus Brewing Company. A variety of delicious foods from local food carts makes this free festival a summer essential.
Mount Horeb Art Fair | July 18–19
Mount Horeb’s Art Fair takes place on their Trollway (AKA the town's historic Main Street) and highlights fine artists and crafters from around the Midwest.
WaunaFest | July 23–26
Family fun is on full blast at this Waunakee community festival. Carnival rides, live music and daily family events are just a few of the fun things in store.
Disability Pride Festival | July 25
This family-friendly celebration at Warner Park ensures everyone is welcome and included. The festival highlights disability culture and pride while showcasing talented artists with disabilities through music, dance, art and inclusive activities.
Atwood Fest | July 26–27
One of Madison's hippest neighborhoods comes together for its favorite annual music festival. Food and craft vendors abound in an artistic, and delicious, weekend of fun.
Sugar Maple Music Festival | July 31–August 1
This isn't your normal music festival. An outdoor celebration of traditional music and dance, the two-day festivities involve intimate educational workshops and jams.
Catfish River Music Festival | TBA 2026
Check out the annual Stoughton Opera House Friends Association fundraising event with live music in the Rotary Park gazebo, food and drink vendors and local art vendors.
Maxwell Street Days | TBA 2026
Maxwell Street Days has been a Madison tradition for more than 40 years. The State Street sidewalk sale provides attendees with great bargains on clothes, art, sporting goods and more.
Seltzer & Cider Fest | TBA 2026
Head to Breese Stevens Field for a taste of seltzers, ciders, teas and kombuchas made locally and across the country. Enjoy music, games and food with your sips.
Urban League Unity Picnic | TBA 2026
Celebrate at the Urban League's Black Business Hub for a free, family-friendly event with delicious food, live music, fun activities, community resources and more!
August
Sugar Maple Music Festival | July 31–August 1
This isn't your normal music festival. An outdoor celebration of traditional music and dance, the two-day festivities involve intimate educational workshops and jams.
NGFD Firefest | August 1
It’s fun for the whole family during this New Glarus festival, which features firetruck rides, water fights, inflatable rides and fire safety information.
Swiss Volksfest | August 2
Enjoy all things Swiss and celebrate Swiss Independence Day. Yodeling, thalerschwingen and alphorn music will teleport you to the rolling hills of Switzerland.
Great Taste of the Midwest | August 8
One of America's premier beer festivals makes it home in Madison. More than 190 of the Midwest's craft brewers — and 6,000 beer fanatics — descend on Olin Park for a delicious dive into the world of beer.
Agora Art Fair | August 15
Surround yourself with art from over 100 local and regional artists from every medium, amid the unique architecture of the agora and the natural prairie landscape of southern Wisconsin.
Eken Park Festival | August 15
Head to Madison's north side for a family-friendly festival that honors community. Diverse music creates a memorable soundtrack as you dine on local cuisine and beer.
Sun Prairie Sweet Corn Festival | August 19–23
With over 80 tons of sweet corn in one place, plus family-friendly fun, this is Sun Prairie festival is one to add to your calendar.
Wilhelm Tell Festival | August 22–23
The quaint downtown of New Glarus is your host for historic revitalization. Lederhosen will be plentiful as the community gathers for the story of Swiss Independence.
Good Neighbor Festival | August 28–30
Middleton has come together to celebrate neighborly spirit for over 60 years. Good music, good food and good neighbors – what more could you ask for?
Orton Park Festival | August 28–30
The east side's Orton Park Festival is one of the country's longest-running outdoor music festivals. Enjoy four days of great music, a wide array of vendors and spectacular aerial trapeze performances.
National Mustard Day | TBA 2026
A funky festival dedicated to the king of condiments? You gotta be there. Bring the family to sample mustards from the enormous collection at the National Mustard Museum and enjoy live music.
Food Truck Festival | TBA 2026
Join fellow food lovers for a delicious night at Four Winds Farm in Fitchburg. Enjoy food from local vendors, live music, yard games and more at this family friendly event!
Africa Fest | TBA 2026
Come celebrate and share in African traditions and cultural heritages. This festival provides opportunities for inclusiveness in the Madison area.
Coffee Break Festival | TBA 2026
Back in 1880, Stoughton's Coffee Street had daily breaks for coffee. Today, the tradition lives on in this annual festival, held every third Saturday in August.
New Glarus Whiskey, Wine and Cheese Fest | TBA 2026
A wonderful afternoon of Whiskey, Wine, Cheese, Mead, apps and other food pairings. This event always promises to be a good time!
OutReach Magic Festival: A Pride Celebration | TBA 2026
With an atmosphere of community, live entertainment and more, this Pride festival is one of a kind.
Madison Night Market | TBA 2026
The annual Madison Night Market takes place on five Thursdays throughout the year. With local art, artisan, food, produce and shopping vendors lined up and down State Street along with live music, food trucks and pop-up restaurant experiences, downtown Madison is the place to be on a Thursday night.
Art in the Park | TBA 2026
New Glarus Art in the Park is an annual fine arts and crafts event. Art in the Park takes place every labor day weekend on Sunday in beautiful downtown New Glarus.
Black on State | TBA 2026
Black on State Fest is a bold cultural initiative redefining what power, presence and creativity look like in the heart of our cities. Enjoy live music, local vendors, food, wellness spaces and more all while celebrating creativity and unity.
Paoli Fall Fest | TBD 2026
Kick off fall in Paoli with special offers at local shops, enjoy live music, discover new fall flavors and shop for autumn treasures.
September
Taste of Madison | September 5–6
A free two-day event on Madison's beautiful Capitol Square over Labor Day weekend (Saturday and Sunday) with three stages of music, food from 80 vendors and fun for all ages.
Shifting Gears Bike Path Dance Festival | TBA 2026
Grab your bike, your scooter, roller skates, or just put on your favorite walking shoes! This year’s festival brings you new interactive activities and new appreciation for our beautiful city at various Madison parks.
Curd Fest | TBA 2026
Fried curds, fresh curds and more! Celebrate the 12th anniversary of Curd Fest at Breese Stevens Field.
Thirsty Troll Brew Fest | TBA 2026
What's a festival season without beer sampling? The Thirsty Troll Brew Fest is celebrating 20 years with a festival that will feature 30 craft brewers serving more than 125 different beers. Don't forget to join the "masskrugstemmen" aka steinholding competition!
Wauktoberfest | September 10–13
Enjoy food, beer, music, inflatables, hammer sluggin' and pumpkin decorating during this four-day festival.
New Glarus Oktoberfest | September 24–27
New Glarus welcomes October with their own version of the traditional German Oktoberfest. Wagon rides and chainsaw carving add unique local flair.
Madison Vegan Fest | September 26
This annual festival’s mission is to bring people together to enjoy delicious vegan food, hear from speakers and explore ways to live more compassionately.
Monona's Chili Cook-Off | September 26
Join Monona East Side Business Alliance for Monona's 43rd Chili Cook-Off. Find flavors ranging from mild to spicy, and dishes featuring bold new ingredients or recipes passed down many generations.
True North Festival | September 26
This food and music festival celebrates all things Madison's north side has to offer! Join in at Warner Park to celebrate year two of True North Festival!
Verona Fall Fest | September 26
Join the Verona community for a celebration of fall including bonfires, hayrides, a petting zoo and more.
Monroe Street Festival | TBA 2026
Stop by Monroe Street to snag some of the best deals you'll see all year. Take part in children's activities, entertainment and sidewalk sales galore.
Sala Thai Festival | TBA 2026
The community is invited to celebrate Thai culture at the Olbrich Botanical Gardens. Enjoy a day of food, music and dance performances, workshops and demonstrations and more!
Madison Night Market | TBA 2026
The annual Madison Night Market takes place on five Thursdays throughout the year. With local art, artisan, food, produce and shopping vendors lined up and down State Street along with live music, food trucks and pop-up restaurant experiences. Downtown Madison is the place to be on Thursday night.
Willy Street Fair | TBA 2026
Join Madison's longest-running neighborhood gathering in the trendy Willy Street neighborhood. Five stages of entertainment and 150 vendors will keep the good vibes flowing.
Art of Cheese Festival | TBA 2026
From cheese ball to cheese crawl, this cheese festival has it all. Art of Cheese is an exclusive, artisan cheese festival created for the world’s biggest cheese lovers with events in and around the city.
October
Fall Village Market | October 3–4
Visit Mount Horeb's historic downtown for a weekend full of fall fun including live music, local handmade goods, food trucks and more.
Wisconsin Book Festival | October 15–18
Enjoy free author events that celebrate books and spark conversations. Each year, the festival creates a robust schedule of accomplished and new writers whose books appeal to all ages.
Wisconsin Science Festival | October 15–25
The Wisconsin Science Festival is a statewide celebration with activities for people throughout Wisconsin. Events include hands-on science exhibitions, demonstrations, performances, tours, pub nights, workshops and more. Check out their website for Madison events.
Annual Celebration Gala: La Magia del Pueblo | TBA 2026
La Magia del Pueblo / The Magic of our Community is the theme of Centro's annual celebration. Join for an evening dance, arts, live music, dinner and more. This annual celebration honors the spirit, strength and creativity of the Latinx community.
Madison Night Market | TBA 2026
The annual Madison Night Market takes place on five Thursdays throughout the year. With local art, artisan, food, produce and shopping vendors lined up and down State Street along with live music, food trucks and pop-up restaurant experiences, downtown Madison is the place to be on a Thursday night.
Witches Night Out | TBA 2026
Calling all witches and warlocks. People come from all over for Witches Night Out, where everyone dresses up like witches and warlocks and enjoys shopping, dining and spending time with friends.
Bodega Night Market | TBA 2026
The Bodega at Breese Stevens Field hosts more than 60 local artisans and food vendors. Shop local, enjoy family friendly entertainment and yard games, plus food and drink options at this unique night market.
The Big Gay Spooky Market | TBA 2026
The mission of The Big Gay Market is to host inclusive, welcoming and fun markets for the Madison community and beyond. Check back for more information on the 2026 spooky market.
November
Winter Art Fair Off the Square | November 7–8
The companion of the annual summer Art Fair on the Square features more than 135 local Wisconsin artists with selections of pottery, paintings, photography and more!
Holiday Fantasy in Lights | November 14–December 31
Drive through Olin Park for one of Madison's favorite holiday traditions! The light show is free with the lights shining from dawn until dusk through the holiday season.
Madison Hmong New Year | TBA 2026
Celebrate the rich festivities of the Hmong culture by remembering ancestors, sacrifice, and accomplishments and preserving traditions in honor of the upcoming new year.
Native Art Market | TBA 2026
The 2025 Native Art Market is held at the Arts+ Literature Laboratory and will feature an all-day market, workshops and other special events. More than 40 Native artists will be sharing and selling their work throughout the galleries and education studio.
Flannel Fest | TBA 2026
All the fall feels in one spot. Music, food and, of course, flannels mark this annual festival.
Black Friday Madison Maker's Market | TBA 2026
Shop local this holiday season! Visit multiple locations in Madison to shop more than 80 local and regional vendors.
Winter Holiday Bodega | TBA 2026
Breese Stevens Field is hosting its first ever winter-themed Bodega market featuring more than 60 local makers. Shop local, enjoy performances by TubaChristmas, decorate cookies, craft holiday gifts and meet Santa!
December
New Glarus Christkindli Market | December 4–6
Transport yourself to the winter wonderland that is Little Switzerland during Christkindli Market. With locally sourced gifts, holiday decorations and warm food, there’s a little something for everyone. St. Nick himself might even make an appearance.
Hometown Holidays | TBA 2026
Get in the holiday spirit in downtown Verona during the Hometown Holidays celebration. Come for the holiday spirit and stay for the annual tree lighting celebration, ice skating, Holiday Trolley Express rides, hot cocoa and more!
Victorian Holiday Weekend | TBA 2026
Explore Norwegian heritage during downtown Stoughton's Victorian Holiday Weekend. Check out the holiday lights, enjoy delicious food and drink, shop local, vote for your favorite festive window display and more during this family-friendly weekend event.
Madison Fair Trade Holiday Festival | TBA 2026
Looking for unique, socially responsible, handmade gifts this year? If so, you can enjoy the fun and festive atmosphere of the 29th Annual Fair Trade Holiday Festival at Monona Terrace.
Holiday Black Bazaar | TBA 2026
Get into the holiday spirit at this vibrant, two-day marketplace featuring local Black-owned businesses. Shop local, enjoy food and drink and support small businesses at this family-friendly event!
Get Festive with Agora | TBA 2026
This event kicks off Fitchburg's weekend-long Holiday Lights Tour and Jubilee. Join for an enchanting holiday event featuring festive lights, delicious food and drink, cookie decorating, carriage rides and more!
Christkindl Market at Seven Acre Dairy Co. | TBA 2026
With hand-selected vendors, this event will bring together top makers, artists and small businesses alike for a highly curated holiday shopping experience. Guests will feel like they’ve stepped inside a curated Wisconsin winter lodge fit with beautiful gifts to ease their holiday shopping needs.
The Big Gay Holiday Market | TBA 2026
The mission of The Big Gay Market is to host inclusive, welcoming and fun markets for the Madison community and beyond. Visit the Alliant Energy Center to find art, gifts and goods from local LGBTQ+ makers.
Starkweather Winter Solstice Celebration | TBA 2026
Join the Friends of Starkweather Creek for the 24th annual winter solstice celebration! Bring your thoughts to forget and wishes to ascend from the fire's ash during this gathering of community, nature, humanity and life on earth on the shortest day of the year.
January
Wisconsin Fest | TBD 2027
Wisconsin Fest is back! This three weekend music festival gives the opportunity to showcase our state's diverse musical artistry. Enjoy seven unique genres over four nights across three of Madison's venues.
Beer & Cheese Fest | TBD 2027
Beer & Cheese Fest is a can’t-miss. Warm up in the heart of winter with samples of hundreds of delicious cheeses and beers while you mingle with brewers and cheesemakers from across the state.
N/A Day: A "Dry January" Beverage Festival | TBD 2027
N/A Day is back for it's second year at The Bur Oak. Purchase tickets for the opportunity to enjoy unlimited samples of more than 50 products in the wide-ranging, ever-evolving and rapidly-growing non-alcoholic drink market.
Wisconsin Drag Awards | TBD 2027
The Wisconsin Drag Awards will be returning to The Sylvee. The 2026 theme is black & white, so get those dazzling, monochromatic looks ready to celebrate the incredible talent in the drag community.
Midwest Django Fest | TBD 2027
Formally known as Midwest Gypsy Swing Fest, each year, world class musicians from across the country gather for two nights of swing music, joyful connection and celebration!
Folk Ball Festival | TBD 2027
The 36th annual Folk Ball Festival is an international dance festival held at the Memorial Union featuring multiple bands and dance parties. Enjoy a full weekend of dinner, workshops and dance parties! Registration is required.
Fun Prairie Frozen Fest | TBD 2027
Join in the annual celebration of all things snowy and cold in Sun Prairie. Mark your calendars for multiple days of frozen fun, ending with the 78th annual Groundhog Day Prognostication on February 2.
Wisconsin Grown Up Book Fair | TBD 2027
The 5th annual adult book fair is back! Stop by The Sylvee as it is transformed into one of the fondest places from your childhood, the book fair. Enjoy food, beverages and other on-site activations. Saturday sessions are grown-ups only (18+) and Sunday sessions are family friendly.
