Partner Programs & Events
One of the perks of being a Destination Madison partner is getting invited to a year's worth of events dedicated to networking, learning and creating connections! We've refreshed our offerings for 2025 to offer three different event series:
- Partner Start Up Series: Kick-start your partnership by joining one of our quarterly orientation sessions. Each is designed to help new partners meet, mingle and maximize the benefits of being a Destination Madison partner.
- Partner Pop Up Series: This experiential event series takes our guests behind the scenes at the Greater Madison hot spots everyone is talking about! It's your chance to get out and about + stay in the know as Madison grows.
- Partner Workshop Series: This educational event series features short sessions with big tourism takeaways. From data deep dives to trending topics in our industry, you'll walk away with tools you can use to build your business.
Save your spot now for the upcoming events listed below. Questions? Email Ana Cordova for event details or information on our full 2026 event calendar.
Summer Summit + Destination Madison Awards | June 25, 2026 | 4-6 p.m.
It’s here, it’s here—the highlight of our year!
This early evening social at the Overture Center for the Arts will feature light bites, cocktails and camaraderie in celebration of the people who make Madison, Wisconsin an unforgettable destination.
It’s where we’ll reveal the winners of the 2026 Destination Madison Awards—from rising stars to long-time legends—and honor the successes and strengths of our hospitality community. Together, we’re making Madison a place where all are welcome, and we can’t wait to celebrate with you!
REGISTRATION HAS CLOSED!
Partner Start Up Series
Partner Start Up | August 11, 2026 | 8–10 a.m.
Join us at the premier meet and greet event designed to kick-start your partnership. This onboarding orientation series — held quarterly to welcome new partners — is your chance to meet our team, mingle with partner peers, and learn tips and tricks for making the most of your partnership with Destination Madison.
Ideal for new partners and new employees joining existing partner businesses.
Partner Pop Up Series
Partner Pop Up x Carnelian Art Gallery | July 23, 2026 | 3:30-5:30 p.m.
Never before has there been a Partner Pop Up event so immersed in imagination and innovation!
Carnelian Art Gallery Owner Evan Bradbury and Marketing Director Emilie Heidemann are our hosts for an evening of creative connections, including a behind the scenes tour of the gallery, studio and event space prior to getting a guided look at Of Clowns and Artistic Depth—an exhibition featuring the works of local artist and UW-Madison grad Doug Hyslop. His captivating, expansive oil paintings play with depth, reflection and perspective, creating a truly awe-inspiring arts experience. Linger longer to enjoy a beverage and light bites from Great Dane Brewing Company among your partner peers.
Location: Carnelian Art Gallery, 221 King St., Suite 100, Madison, WI 53703
Special thanks to our sponsor Madison Gas and Electric for sponsoring our Partner Pop Up events.
Past Events & Webinars
Creating Confidence in Conflict Resolution (April 15, 2026) – Watch Recording | View the Slide Deck
AI in Action: Practical Tips for Teams (August 21, 2025) – View the Slide Deck
Influencer Marketing Power Hour with the Hummingbirds (March 6, 2025) – Watch Recording | View the Slide Deck
DM Partner+ Deep Dive (December 12, 2024) – View the Slide Deck
Hospitality Workforce Buzz & DM Partner+ Launch (September 26, 2024) – View the Slide Deck
Summer Summit + DMAs (June 27, 2024) – View the Slide Deck
Earth Day Every Day: Tips for Sustainability Success (April 25, 2024) – View the Slide Deck
Consumer Behavior Study: Capturing Visitor Mindsets Webinar (March 20, 2024) – Watch Recording | View the Slide Deck
The Social Social (June 6, 2023) – View the Slide Deck
Summer Celebration (June 16, 2022) – View the Slide Deck | Watch the Brand Campaign Video
Maximizing Our Marketing Efforts (December 1, 2021) – Watch the Recording | View the Slide Deck
Travel for Everybody - How Can Businesses Help? – (June 9, 2021) – Watch the Recording
Virtual Partner Roundtable: The Future of Madison – (March 25, 2021) – Download the Recap
Pivoting During a Crisis: A Panel Discussion (November 19, 2020) – Watch the Recording
Travel Sentiment & Trends (October 7, 2020) – Watch the Recording
