2026 Wisconsin State Music Conference

October 28–31, 2026
Monona Terrace Community & Convention Center

WELCOME TO MADISON

We are so excited to be the host of the 2026 Wisconsin State Music Conference. With five glistening lakes, 307 parks and 200+ miles of hiking and biking trails and also being one of only two major cities located on an isthmus, we are thrilled to welcome attendees from around the world to the one-of-a-kind destination experience Madison has to offer. We hope you enjoy your stay!

Jump around to find:

• Madison's Fun Facts
• Madison Like a Local
• NEW: One Social Food Hall
• More Things to Do in Madison
• Attendee Resources (Safety, LGBTQ+ Travel, Accessible Travel, Transporation)
• Getting Around Madison

Madison's Fun Facts

• Madison is one of only two major U.S. cities built on an isthmus.
• Madison is surrounded by five glittering lakes: Mendota, Monona, Wingra, Waubesa and Kegonsa.  
• The Capitol was built with 43 types of stone from six countries and eight states. Construction was completed in 1917.
• The Dane County Farmers' Market (located on the Capitol Square) is the largest producer-only market in the U.S.
• Thousands of Native American effigy mounds–the largest concentration in the U.S.–were built along the shores of Madison’s lakes. Twenty-three mounds remain on public land in Dane County.
• Nirvana recorded demos for what would become its breakthrough album Nevermind at Smart Studios in Madison.
• Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Steve Miller is a UW-Madison graduate.
• Find more fun facts here >>                                                    

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Discover Madison Like a Local 

Explore even more of Madison with six free experience passes featuring Madison must-dos, Frank Lloyd Wright sites, biking spots, lakeside adventures and places to eat and drink in between. Explore all experience passes.

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NEW: One Social Food Hall

The newly opened One Social Food Hall is your one-stop-shop for good food and good times. Perched above the shores of Lake Monona, One Social is a vibrant celebration of flavor, culture and community. It’s where neighbors and newcomers come together to enjoy the very best our city has to offer.

Vendors:

• Palio (pizza & pasta)
• Casey's Tavern (classic tavern fare)
• Real Seafood Co. (seafood)
• Senora Machetes (authentic Mexican cuisine)
• Mizu Noodles & Sushi (noodles & sushi)
• Social Grounds (coffee & sweets)
• One Social Bar (local beers & craft cocktails)

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More Things to do in Madison

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Attendee Resources

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For more information on the 2026 WMEA Conference, visit 

wmeamusic.org/conference/