It’s no secret Madison, Wisconsin holds a unique plethora of entertainment options each summer — so much so that it can be overwhelming to decide where to spend an afternoon or evening.
The Daily Cardinal compiled a list previewing just a few of the most notable arts events happening this summer.
May 22-Aug. 28
Memorial Union
Free
Every Wednesday, Memorial Union will host an open mic night, welcoming all styles of music, comedy, spoken word and poetry.
Under-A-Rest
Free
Technically, this one is already out. The University of Wisconsin-Madison a cappella group “Under-A-Rest” released their first album May 17, with covers of Beyonce, Adele and Panic! at the Disco.
June 6, 13, 20 and 27
The Chazen Museum of Art
Ticketed
Owner of the classic art school Atwood Atelier and UW-Madison alum Philip Salmone leads a group through the Chazen each Thursday in June. On the tour, participants explore figure drawing through inspiration from the Chazen.
June 7-16
Various locations
Free and Ticketed events
Madison Jazz Festival offers 10 days of free concerts, presentations and ticketed shows, with a two-day finale at Memorial Union June 15-16.
July 13-14
Capitol Square
Free
The Capitol Square fair brings together over 500 artists and offers jewelry, live music and more.
June 14-15
Madison Youth Arts Center
Free
Proud Theater offers a safe space for young LGBTQ+ people to produce high-quality theater. Their 25th anniversary showcase is free, with donations encouraged.
June 15
The Bur Oak
Ticketed
The puppet-led musical adapts the H.P. Lovecraft Cthulhu monster with the aid of a full rock band, stopping in Madison for one night at the Bur Oak during the company’s summer-long tour.
June 19-July 26
4070 Vilas Hall
Free
The UW Cinematheque is showing 18 unique films at Vilas Communications Hall this summer, open to both students and community members.
June 21
The Sylvee
Ticketed
Seeking to fill the gap created when “Live on King” was canceled, “Live on Queen” is a pride-themed Madison music celebration.
June 21
Free
Free outdoor performances will be playing all across the city of Madison for this day of music, ranging from afrobeat, celtic, soul and more.
CapitalQ Theatre Festival 2024
June 21-23
Bartell Theatre
Free and Ticketed
StageQ, Wisconsin’s queer theater troupe, will host a weekend-long pride celebration, offering free workshops and masterclasses as well as ticketed showcases.
June 29-30
Overture Center
Free
Though not only for art, the International Festival features art and music from all around the world.
July 9-21
The Overture Center
Ticketed
The Bohemian revolution hits Madison this summer in this energetic jukebox musical, stopping at the Overture Center for a fortnight.
July 24-28
Memorial Union Terrace
Free
Contribute to the Kindness Rock Project by stopping by Memorial Union and painting a rock. The event runs for four evenings.
July 26
Memorial Union
Ticketed
Memorial Union’s Wheelhouse Studios will host an evening on instructor-led painting alongside a glass of wine.
July 31
Memorial Union
Ticketed
Learn how to elevate your photography at this event at this workshop through the functions of your camera and basics of photography composition.
Aug. 2
The Sylvee
Ticketed
For Madison metal-lovers, the Mad With Power festival elevates the sound of heavy metal, inviting fans to head-bang all night long.
Aug. 2-3
W.G. Lunney Lake Farm County Park
Free
With a beautiful natural landscape, this festival immerses listeners in roots music.
Aug. 6
Memorial Union
Free
Memorial Union hosts a variety of free, live music events each summer — this night features a female-fronted throwback band Star 67.
Aug. 16
Breese Stevens Field
Ticketed
Irish indie singer Hozier is visiting Madison along the tour for his third studio album “Unreal Unearth.”
Aug. 23-25
Orton Park
Free
The Orton Park Festival returns with music, food and vendors to create a beautiful day in the park for friends and family.
Rebekah Irby is an arts editor for The Daily Cardinal.
Bryna Goeking is an arts editor for The Daily Cardinal. She also reports on campus news. Follow her on Twitter @BrynaGoeking.
