Happy May, Madison. 🌸 If you’re anything like us, you’re ecstatic about the sunny days, blooming flowers, and summer on the horizon — and with all that excitement, you’re also looking for fun local events to attend. Read on for all the top events happening this month in the 608.
May 1-May 7
Sun., May 1
- Dorothy | Sun., May 1 | 7 p.m. | Majestic Theatre | $19.50+ | A blues-rock performance from a musician who turned to faith in the wake of trauma.
- Music Foundry Showcase | Sun., May 1 | 11 a.m. | High Noon Saloon | Free | A student rock concert + jam session highlighting local young musical talent.
- The Tempest | Sun., May 1 | 4:30 p.m. | Diane Ballweg Theatre, 1000 Edgewood College Dr. | $15 | A performance of Shakespeare’s spectacular tragedy thought to be one of his final works.
- Derby Dining | Sun., May 1 | 6-8:30 p.m. | DelecTable, 3248 University Ave. | $69 | A cooking class specializing in Kentucky classics just in time for Derby Day.
- Sunday Social Run | Sun., May 1 | 8-10 a.m. | Brittingham Park, 829 W. Washington Ave. | A recurring group run with three loops of varying distances hosted by Movin’ Shoes Running Co.
- Pizza Nights on the Farm | Sun., May 1 | 2:30-8 p.m. | Sprouting Acres Farm, 1746 WI-73, Cambridge | Free entry | Enjoy wood-fired pizza picnic style or inside the greenhouse.
- Spring Art Market | Sun., May 1 | 1-4 p.m. | 4222 Yuma Dr. | Free entry | The inaugural market by Paper Antler with 12+ vendors.
Mon., May 2
- Leon Bridges | Mon., May 2 | 7:30 p.m. | The Sylvee | $69.50 | A Grammy award-winning singer + songwriter showcases his chart-topping R&B talents.
- 2022/23 Season Announcement | Mon., May 2 | 7 p.m. | Virtual | Free | Overture Center’s Chief Artistic Experiences Officer unveils 40+ performances for the coming season.
- Aimee Mann | Mon., May 2 | 7:30-10 p.m. | Stoughton Opera House, 381 E. Main St., Stoughton | $50 | An alternative rock singer-songwriter performs the greatest hits from her new album, Queens of The Summer Hotel.
- Poetry and Nature | Mon., May 2 | 5 p.m. | Lakeview Library, 2845 N. Sherman Ave. | Free | A nature-themed poetry workshop hosted by Madison poet laureate + Audubon Society educator.
- West Madison Baseball Clinic | Mon., May 2 | 6 p.m. | Blackhawk Park, 741 Bear Claw Way | $109 | The first day of a three-week-long hands-on, instructional group session on the basics of baseball for boys + girls ages 3-4.
Tues., May 3
- Alec Benjamin | Tues., May 3 | 8 p.m. | The Sylvee | $29.50+ | A concert from an up-and-coming Phoenix-based artist known for his old English language lyrics + skills singing in Mandarin.
- Grown Up Improv Show | Tues., May 3 | 7:30 p.m. | High Noon Saloon | $15 | An interactive show from an award-winning Madison-based comedy troupe.
- Cookie Decorating | Tues., May 3 | 6-8 p.m. | Village Center, 333 S. Madison St., Waunakee | $10+ | A Mother’s Day-themed cookie-making instructional session for children 5 and up.
- Beginning Bird and Wildlife Action Photography | Tues., May 3 | 7:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m. | Location TBA | $15 | A lesson in capturing moving stills + nature shots taught by photographer Arlene Koziol.
- Northside Arts Social | Tues., May 3 | 8 p.m. | Bierock, 2911 N. Sherman Ave. | Free | a local talent showcase + networking opportunity for aspiring artists
- Eastside Farmers’ Market | Tues., May 3 | 4-7 p.m. | McPike Park, 202 S. Ingersoll St. | Free entry | A weekday farmers’ market with fresh veggies, cheeses, and meats.
Wed., May 4
- Three Days Grace | Wed., May 4 | 8 p.m. | The Sylvee | $35+ | The Canadian heavy-metal band in its signature hard-hitting electric sound.
- Quatro de Mayo Cooking Class | Wed., May 4 | 6-8:30 p.m | DelecTabe, 3248 University Ave. | $69 | A Mexican food-themed culinary lesson with beer + cocktails available for purchase.
- Warbler Walk | Wed., May 4 | 6-8 a.m. | Cherokee Marsh North Unit, 6098 N. Sherman Ave | Free | A 1-3 mile walk + bird watching event through Madison’s premiere watershed.
- Music Bingo | Wed., May 4 | 6-8 p.m | Hy-Vee Market Grille, 3801 E. Washington Ave. | Free | An instrumental themed quiz + game night with prizes for the top 3 finishers.
- Soggy Prairie | Wed., May 4 | 6 p.m. | Red Rooster, 2513 Seiferth Rd. | Free | A five-piece bluegrass concert from a Sun Prairie-based country band.
Thurs., May 5
- Ben Rector | Thurs., May 5 | 7 p.m. | The Sylvee | $35 | An Oklahoma pianist showcases his musical talents + instrumental dexterity.
- Ricky Velez | Thurs., May 5 | 7:30 p.m. | Comedy on State | $5+ | A stand-up comedy performance from a King of Staten Island star + featured actor on Netflix’s Master of None.
- Ranch Versatility Clinic | Thurs., May 5 | 9 a.m. | Horse First Farm, 5594 Alpine Rd., Brooklyn | $895 | The first day of a hands-on clinic in horsemanship.
- Jackie Ernst | Come Back In Bar and Restaurant, 508 E. Wilson St. | 5-8 p.m. | Free | An eclectic concert from a southeastern Wisconsin-based singer-songwriter.
- Fitchburg Center Farmers’ Market | Thurs., May 5 | 3-6 p.m. | Fitchburg Farmers’ Market, 5511 E. Cheryl Pkwy, Fitchburg | Free | Opening day for the summer outdoor market displaying locally-grown produce for sale.
Fri., May 6
- Fuego Friday | Fri., May 6 | 7:30 p.m. | Majestic Theatre | $15 | Salsa your way through a night of instrumental Latin jams.
- UW-Madison vs. Michigan | Fri., May 6 | 5 p.m. | Goodman Softball Complex, 2415 University Bay Dr. | $5 | Watch the Badgers softball team take on a Big Ten rival.
- His Greatest Hits | Fri., May 6 | 7:30 p.m. | Overture Center | $20+ | The Madison Symphony Orchestra puts on an all-Beethoven concert.
- African Languages Film Festival | Fri., May 6 | 5-7 p.m. | Van Hise Hall, 1220 Linden Dr. | Free | A seminar + showcase of African language and culture in film.
- SPARK! | Fri., May 6 | 10-11:30 a.m. | Arts for All Wisconsin, 1709 Aberg Ave. | Free | A cultural + arts program for adults with early to mid-stage memory loss.
- Adoption Event | Fri., May 6 | 4-6 p.m. | Mounds Pet Food Warehouse, 2110 S. Stoughton Rd., Stoughton | Free | A chance to meet + play with adoptable rescue pets.
- The Bodega | Fri., May 6 | 5-9 p.m. | Breese Stevens Field | Free entry | A market of vendors offering unique foods, antiques, one-of-a-kind art + more.
- Family Friday | Fri., May 6 | All day | Virtual | Free | A demonstration from the Chazen Museum’s Curator of Education of an at-home family-friendly project anyone can do.
- Gallery Night | Fri., May 6 | 5-9 p.m. | Locations vary | Free | A local art showcase featuring dozens of venues, exhibits + works available for purchase.
Sat., May 7
- Hilldale Farmers Market | Sat., May 7 | 8 a.m.-1 p.m. | Hilldale Shopping Center | Free entry | Grab some fresh produce at the pet-friendly outdoor market.
- Drake White | Sat., May 7 | 8 p.m. | Majestic Theatre | $20+ | No, not that Drake. The country music rising star brings his Nashville bluegrass sound.
- Jurassic Parks 5K & 8K Run | Sat., May 7 | 8 a.m. | $23.70 | Stonebridge Estates Community Park, 300 Stonehaven Dr., Sun Prairie | A dinosaur-themed, dog-friendly road race with free t-shirts + a kids’ run.
- 5K and Kids Dash | Sat., May 7 | 9 a.m. | Orchid Heights Park, 3960 Valley Ridge Rd., Middleton | $30 | A family-oriented run/walk event in memory of Lina Vergara with prizes for the top finishers in each race.
- Donald Dash Trail Run | Sat., May 7 | 9 a.m. | Donald Park, 1945 WI-92, Mt. Horeb | $30 | A fast-paced backcountry trail run for racers looking to unleash their wild side.
- Arboretum Garden Tour | Sat., May 7 | 1-3 p.m. | UW Arboretum | Free | An expansive Lilac showcase brought to you by garden curator David Stevens.
- Mariachi Herencia | Sat., May 7 | 7:30 p.m. | Overture Center | $25+ | A Latin Grammy award-nominated music group brings their traditional Mexican musical sound.
- Freaky Friday | Sat., May 7-Sun., May 22 | Times vary | Overture Center | $40 | A live musical theater adaptation of the hit Disney classic.
- Blacksmithing Workshops | Sat., May 7 | 9 a.m.-4 p.m. | Wade House, W7965 WI-23, Greenbush | $195 | A crash course in metalwork + a chance to craft your own iron appliances.
- Live Music with Casey Day | Sat., May 7 | 6-8:30 p.m | The Cider Farm, 8216 Watts Rd. | Free entry | An evening of locally-made cider tasting + acoustic guitar performance.
- Spring Art Walk & Sale | Sat., May 7 | 9:30 a.m-4 p.m. | Locations vary | Free entry | A local art showcase in the Hill Farms neighborhood.
May 8-May 14
Sun., May 8
- What’s in the Woods | Sun., May 8 | 1-3 p.m. | UW-Madison Arboretum, 2880 Longnecker Dr. | Free | A children’s nature walk hosted by UW-Madison.
- Doodle POP | Sun., May 8 | 3 p.m. | Overture Center | $20+ | A non-verbal show featuring two sketch artists who create breathtaking illustrations while accompanied by live music.
- Beatles for Kids | Sun., May 8 | 12-5 p.m. | High Noon Saloon | $27+ | The Rock and Roll Playhouse puts on a family-friendly Beatles concert.
- Mother’s Day Skate | Sun., May 8 | 1-4 p.m. | Fast Forward Skate Center, 4649 Verona Rd. | Mothers skate free today at the indoor rollerblading rink.
- Orchard Tour | Sun., May 8 | 2-3 p.m. | The Cider Farm, 7258 Kelly Rd., Mineral Point | $15+ | A walking tour of a 166-acre apple orchard + spring blossoms display in the Driftless Region.
Mon., May 9
- Wingra Wind Quartet | Mon., May 9 | 3-4 p.m. | Stoughton Opera House, 381 E. Main St., Stoughton | TKTK | An instrumental ensemble brought to you by UW-Madison faculty.
- Book Discussion | Mon., May 9 | 6-8 p.m. | Best Western Premier Park Hotel, 22 S. Carroll St. | Free | An in-depth, analytical conversation focused on Nella Larson’s classic novel Passing.
- An Artful Affair | Mon., May 9 | 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. | Madison Senior Center, 330 W. Mifflin St. | $20 | An art show + opportunity to craft your own work for ages 55+.
- Michael K. Rosen | Mon., May 9 | 3-4 p.m. | DeLuca Biomedical Sciences Building, 420 Henry Mall | Free | A biochemistry lecture on a phase separation model for chromatin organization hosted by the UT Southwestern Medical Center Biophysics Chair.
- Monday Group Run | Mon., May 9 | 5:45-6:45 p.m. | Movin’ Shoes, 528 S. Park St. | Free | An evening of exercise for runners of all ability levels
Tues., May 10
- Dear Evan Hansen | Tues., May 10-Sun., May 15 | Times vary | Overture Center | $40+ | The Tony award-winning Broadway show + coming-of-age-story.
- Warbler Walk | Tues., May 10 | 6:30-8:30 a.m. | UW Madison Arboretum, 1207 Seminole Hwy | Free | An early morning group bird watching session.
- Toco Beach Steelpan | Tues., May 10 | 5:30 p.m. | Buck & Honey’s, 804 Liberty Blvd., Sun Prairie | Free | A Caribbean-themed concert from a steel drum trio.
- Strand of Oaks | Tues., May 10 | 8 p.m. | High Noon Saloon | $19.50+ | Rock musician Tim Showalter showcases new music influenced by personal hardships.
- Eastside Farmers’ Market | Tues., May 10 | 4-7 p.m. | McPike Park, 202 S. Ingersoll St. | Free entry | A weekday farmers’ market with fresh veggies, cheeses, and meats.
Wed., May 11
- Conservation Park Tour | Wed., May 11 | 5:30-7 p.m. | And Edna Taylor Conservation Park, 802 Femrite Dr. | Free | A guided 90-minute rain or shine walk through one of Madison’s renowned conservatories.
- Tween/Teen Art Camp | Wed., May 11 | 3:45-5:45 p.m. | Mt. Horeb Recreation Department, 105 N. Grove St., Mt. Horeb | $140 | An evening of learning the ins + outs of mandala painting for adolescents.
- Pandemic Struggles and Silver Linings | Wed., May 11 | 6-7:15 p.m. | Virtual | Free | A conversation on the science, outcomes + mitigation strategies for COVID-19 hosted by infectious disease researcher Dr. Nasia Safdar.
- Ghost of Paul Revere | Wed., May 11 | 8 p.m. | High Noon Saloon | $15+ | A folk concert from a trio whose songs have become the state ballad of Maine.
- Waunakee Farmers’ Market | Wed., May 11 | 3-6 p.m. | Rocky Rococo Pizza and Pasta, 301 S. Century Ave., Waunakee | Free | A chance to shop for some locally grown produce from area farmers + vendors.
Thurs., May 12
- Horizons: A 21st Century Space Odyssey | Thurs., May 12 | 7 p.m. | Overture Center | $62 | English physicist Brian Cox takes viewers on a cinematic ride outlining the known history of humankind + the universe’s origin story.
- Jared Fried | Thurs., May 12 | 7:30 p.m. | Comedy on State | $5+ | A night of stand-up from a New York-based comedian who specializes in finding the humor in romance, relationships + dating apps.
- Thursday Women’s Group Run | Thurs., May 12 | 5:45-6:45 p.m. | Movin’ Shoes, 528 S. Park St. | Free | an opportunity for female runners of all skill levels to enjoy some exercise + fresh air.
- Accelerate Sustainability | Thurs., May 12 | 8:30-9:30 a.m. | Sustain Dane, 821 E. Washington Ave. | $99 | A workshop designed to help you brainstorm + enact eco-friendly policies in your workplace.
- Wine & Charcuterie Class | Thurs., May 12 | 6-7 p.m. | Lewis Station Winery, 217 N. Main St., Lake Mills | $30 | A chance to learn the science behind wine + appetizer pairing with three featured bottles for instruction.
Fri., May 13
- Led Zeppelin 2 | Fri., May 13 | 8 p.m. | Majestic Theatre | $20+ | A tribute band pays homage to the original legendary English rock group with a performance of their greatest hits.
- Free Beer Friday | Fri., May 13 | 5:30-7:30 p.m. | WineStyles, 2824 Prairie Lakes Dr., Sun Prairie | Free | A beer tasting featuring fresh hops from Japas Brewery.
- The Cuz | Fri., May 13 | 6-9 p.m. | Wisconsin Brewing Company, 1079 American Way, Verona | Free | A southern Wisconsin pop-punk band showcases their gritty electric sound.
- Noon Musicale | Fri., May 13 | 12-12:45 p.m. | First Unitarian Society, 900 University Bay Dr. | Free | An afternoon performing arts recital with complimentary coffee + tea.
- Adaptive Yoga | Fri., May 13 | 11:15 a.m. | UW Health Research Park Clinic, 621 Science Dr. | $49.50+ | An introductory yoga class for beginners.
Sat., May 14
- The Regrettes | Sat., May 14 | 8 p.m. | Majestic Theatre | $22+ | A power-pop performance from the rising-star L.A. Group’s sophomore album.
- Native Plant Sale | Sat., May 14 | 10 a.m.-2 p.m. | UW-Madison Arboretum, 2880 Longnecker Dr. | Free entry | Your one-stop shop for 200+ plant life for purchase.
- Crabapples | Sat., May 14 | 1-3 p.m. | UW-Madison Arboretum, 2880 Longnecker Dr. | Free | A tour + informational session on the most-planted flowering tree in the Midwest.
- Nick Venturella | Sat., May 14 | 6-8:30 p.m. | The Cider Farm, 8216 Watts Rd. | Free | A live folk/pop concert with cider tasting.
- Uncork Me | Sat., May 14 | 3-6 p.m. | Breese Stevens Field | $45 | An unlimited wine tasting festival with commemorative glasses to take home.
- All Ages Improv Show | Sat., May 14 | 6 p.m. | Wil-Mar Center, 504 S. Brearly St. | $2+ | A family-friendly interactive comedy show.
- Kids Building | Sat., May 14 | 9 a.m.-3 p.m. | McKee Farms Park, 2930 Chapel Valley Rd., Fitchburg | Free | A kid-friendly, interactive construction career fair.
- Tracy Jane Comer | Sat., May 14 | 5:30-8:30 p.m. | Buck & Honey’s, 800 W. Broadway, Monona | Free | A performance from an award-winning jazz + folk singer-songwriter whose acoustics are country-influenced.
May 15-May 21
Sun., May 15
- An Evening with Neil Gaiman | Sun., May 15 | 8-11 p.m. | Orpheum Theatre | $279+ | Stories from the best-selling author in partnership with the Wisconsin Book Festival.
- WHPS Spring Plant Sale | Sun., May 15 | 12-4 p.m. | West Madison Agricultural Research Station | Free entry | A mix of perennials for sun and shade available for purchase.
- Full Moon Night Walk and Lunar Eclipse Watch Party | Sun., May 15 | 8-11 p.m. | UW-Madison Arboretum Visitor Center, 2880 Longenecker Dr. | Free | A full-moon naturalist-guided walk + lunar eclipse viewing through telescopes.
- Walk MS: Madison | Sun., May 15 | 9 a.m. | Warner Park, 2930 N. Sherman Ave. | Free+ | Raise money for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society on mobility-friendly paths.
- Walk for Williams 2022 | Sun., May 15 | 10 a.m. | Brittingham Park, 829 W. Washington Ave. | Free+ | Support programming, research, and connections that ensure the success of the WSA.
- Pizza Nights on the Farm | Sun., May 15 | 2:30-8 p.m. | Sprouting Acres Farm, 1746 WI-73, Cambridge | Free entry | Enjoy wood-fired pizza picnic style or inside the greenhouse.
Mon., May 16
- Lunch for Libraries 2022 with Guy Raz | Mon., May 16 | 11:30 a.m. | Monona Terrace | $125 | 11th annual fundraiser with the award-winning journalist and podcaster.
- Monday Group Run | Mon., May 16 | 5:45-6:45 p.m. | Movin’ Shoes, 528 S. Park St. | Free | A 3-5 mile run at the 9-12 min/mile pace.
Tues., May 17
- Trivia at the Wisconsin Brewing Company | Tues., May 17 | TKTKT
- Sequoya All Ages Chess Club | Tues., May 17 | 6 p.m. | Sequoya Library | Free | A friendly game of chess with friends and neighbors.
- Live Music Night | Tues., May 17 | 6-8 p.m. | Harvest Moon Pond, N3540 Wisconsin 22, Poynette | $8 | Music from High & Rising and food from Soho and Ben’s Pretzels to benefit NAMI.
- Eastside Farmers’ Market | Tues., May 17 | 4-7 p.m. | McPike Park, 202 S. Ingersoll St. | Free entry | A weekday farmers’ market with fresh veggies, cheeses, and meats.
Wed., May 18
- 2022 Historic Preservation Awards | Wed., May 18 | 6-8 p.m. | The Tinsmith, 828 E. Main St. | $30+ | A recognition of projects that have demonstrated historic preservation in the greater Madison area.
- Jackson Kayak Fun Tour | Wed., May 18 | 4 p.m. | Rutabaga Paddlesports, 220 W. Broadway | Free | Learn about upcoming events in the whitewater rafting sphere.
- Clean Lakes Alliance Community Coffee & Annual Meeting | Wed., May 18 | 7:30-10 a.m. | $100+ | A meeting for local leaders and officials to collaborate on lake clean-up actions.
- Fried Chicken and Favorites | Wed., May 18 | 7 p.m. | Sur La Table, 712 N. Midvale Blvd. | $79 | You know we like our chicken fried… and our biscuits flaky and our mac and cheese extra cheesy.
Thurs., May 19
- Words with Nerds | Thurs., May 19 | 7:30-9:30 p.m. | 3116 Commercial Ave. | $10 | TED Talks, but way funnier.
- Learn Sign Language | Thurs., May 19 | 7-8 p.m. | Bierock, 2911 N. Sherman Ave. | $15 | Grab a drink + learn sign language with Our Vibrant Community.
- Trivia Night at State Line | Thurs., May 19 | 7-9 p.m. | State Line Distillery, 1413 Northern Ct. | $1+ | Test your knowledge with six rounds and a new rapid lightning round.
- Cabernet Sauvignon Wine Tasting | Thurs., May 19 | 6-8:30 p.m. | WineStyles Tasting Station, 2824 Prairie Lakes Dr., Sun Prairie | $15 | Try five different California Cabernets.
- Starkweather Creek Clean Up with “Women Who Kayak” | Thurs., May 19 | 5-7 p.m. | Olbrich Park Boat Rentals | Free | Paddle from Olbrich Park Boat Rentals up Starkweather Creek to collect litter and garbage.
- Thai Flavors | Thurs., May 19 | 4 p.m. | Sur La Table, 712 N. Midvale Blvd. | $79 | From Pad Thai to Stir Fry, you’ll learn about the five major flavors of Thai cuisine — sweet, salty, bitter, sour, and spicy. 🇹🇭
Fri., May 20
- Don’t Spook the Horse | Fri., May 20 | 6:30-9:30 p.m. | Lakeside St. Coffee House, 402 W. Lakeside St. | Free entry | The local band for a night of music + drinks in the cozy space.
- Cruisin Round | Fri., May 20 | 6-9 p.m. | Come Back In, 508 E. Wilson St. | Free entry | Music from the Wisconsin-based folk and blues band.
- Greg Zelek with the Diapason Brass & Timpani | Fri., May 20 | 7:30 p.m. | Overture Center | $20 | The Madison Symphony Orchestra presents a performance of Gigout’s Grand Choeur Dialogue and more.
- Artist Chat with Kayla Bauer: “I Left My Heart...” | Fri., May 20 | 10 a.m. | Chazen Museum of Art | Free | An informal artist discussion on the exhibition that is a love letter to San Francisco.
- Free Beer Friday - Giant Jones | Fri., May 20 | 5:3-7:30 p.m. | WineStyles Tasting Station, 2824 Prairie Lakes Dr., Sun Prairie | Free | Try some local beers from the women-owned brewery.
- Rare Element in the Garver Atrium | Fri., May 20 | 7:30 p.m. | Garver Feed Mill | $15 | Local music with cocktail seating + room to dance.
Sat., May 21
- Lake Wingra Watershed Gathering | Sat., May 21 | 1-4 p.m. | Henry Vilas Park | Free | Join the Dudgeon-Monroe Neighborhood Association WATER Team to learn about water stewardship.
- Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire in Concert | Sat., May 21-Sun., May 22 | Times vary | Overture Center | $55+ | Watch the magic of Harry Potter with music from the Madison Symphony Orchestra.
- Dragonfly Monitoring Virtual Training | Sat., May 21 | 9:30-11 a.m. | Virtual | Free | Learn how to identify common dragonfly species, conduct surveys, and record data.
- Midnight Angel | Sat., May 21 | 8 p.m. | Lazy Oaf Lounge, 1617 Stoughton Rd. | Free entry | Music to dance the night away.
- Badger Bonsai Society Annual Show | Sat., May 21-Sun., May 22 | Times vary | Olbrich Botanical Gardens | Free | Explore the art of bonsai + talk with local masters of the trees.
- May Paddle | Sat., May 21 | 12 p.m. | Yahara Place Park, 2025 Yahara Pl. | Free | An easy paddle through the city — bring your own kayak.
- 75th Alice in Dairyland Banquet and Finale | Sat., May 21 | 5:15 p.m. | Monona Terrace | Free+ | Celebrate the history and future of the program with the selection of the 75th Alice in Dairyland.
- Hilldale Farmer’s Market | Sat., May 21 | 8 a.m.-1 p.m. | Hilldale Shopping Center | Free entry | Shop local vendors at the dog-friendly market.
- The Mountain Goats | Sat., May 21 | 8 p.m. | The Sylvee | $40 | A night of tunes from the indie-folk band.
- Thrive in Stride | Sat., May 21 | 10 a.m.-2 p.m. | Orchid Heights Park, Pheasant Branch Conservancy, Middleton | $15+ | A 3-mile run and walk with a scavenger hunt throughout the nature trails to raise money for the Wisconsin Youth Company.
- Knife Making | Sat., May 21 | 9 a.m.-4 p.m. | Wade House Historic Site, W7965 Hwy. 23, Greenbush | $195 | Create two knives with custom handles in the workshop.
- Kanopy 2 and Academy Showcase | Sat., May 21 | Times vary | Overture Center | $20+ | The next generation of dancers and choreographers in a showcase performance.
- 2nd Annual Felicia’s Donation Closet Casino Night and Live Auction | Sat., May 21 | 5-10 p.m. | Bonfyre American Grille, 2601 W. Beltline Hwy. | $50 | Get dressed up + enjoy a night of fun playing poker, roulette, and blackjack.
- Forward Madison FC vs. Charlotte Independence | Sat., May 21 | 7 p.m. | Breese Stevens Field | $20+ | The flamingos take to the field against Captain Jack.
- United Way of Dane County Golf Outing | Sat., May 21 | 12-5 p.m. | Pleasant View Golf Course, 1322 Pleasant View Rd., Middleton | $100 | A standard golf scramble format tournament benefiting United Way.
- Croissants from Scratch | Sat., May 21 | 9 a.m. | Sur La Table, 712 N. Midvale Blvd. | $79 | Learn from a professional chef instructor how to make two types of croissants. 🥐
May 22-May 28
Sun., May 22
- Patton Oswalt | Sun., May 22 | 7 p.m. | Orpheum Theater, 216 State St. | $45+ | A night of laughs from the American comic, screenwriter + actor.
- Carcass | Sun., May 22 | 8 p.m. | Majestic | $30+ | A death metal performance from a group with three decades worth of musical storytelling.
- The Big Big Big Charity Show | Sun., May 22 | 7 p.m. | The Bur Oak | $15 | Madison’s must-see night of stand-up comedy supporting The American Heart Association.
- Sunflower Bean | Sun., May 22 | 8 p.m. | High Noon Saloon | $16+ | The NY-based rock group brings its trio of talent to the Isthmus.
- Monona Farmers’ Market | Sun., May 22 | 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. | Ahuska Park, 400 E. Broadway, Monona | Free entry | Shop a mix of fresh produce, meats + cheeses, plus specialty gifts and other retail goodies.
- Birds, Bikes, Brews | Sun., May 22 | 12-5 p.m. | Capital Brewery, 7734 Terrace Ave., Middleton | $25+ | An afternoon of visiting Middleton nature hubs while enjoying a brew during birding activities.
- Handmade Pasta | Sun., May 22 | 1 p.m. | Sur La Table, 712 N. Midvale Blvd. | $79 | Learn how to make fresh pasta from scratch and bonus: sample a limoncello sorbet.
Mon., May 23
- Flume | Mon., May 23 | 7:30 p.m. | The Sylvee | $35+ | The Australian DJ + producer brings a mix of EDM and house music to the Isthmus.
- Open Mic Comedy Night | Mon., May 23 | 7-10 p.m. | The Bur Oak | Free entry | A night of open mic performances by Madison comic classics + newcomers testing material.
- Artful Affair | Mon., May 23 | 9 a.m.-3 p.m. | Madison Senior Center, 330 W. Mifflin St. | Free | An opportunity for Dane County artists age 55+ to exhibit and share works with the community.
- Monday Group Run | Mon., May 16 | 5:45-6:45 p.m. | Movin’ Shoes, 528 S. Park St. | Free | A 3-5 mile run at the 9-12 min/mile pace.
- Book Club: Read Between the Wines | Mon., May 16 | 6-8 p.m. | Nineteen09, 1909 Main St., Cross Plains | Free | Discuss books, drink wine + engage with community members.
- Mastering French Macarons | Mon., May 23 | 9 a.m. | Sur La Table, 712 N. Midvale Blvd. | $79 | Manic Monday? Never heard of her — treat yourself on a Monday morning and learn how to make this quintessential French cookie.
Tues., May 24
- Invisible Wonders | Tues., May 24 | 7:30 p.m. | Overture Center | $25+ | Get a glimpse of the incredible natural world through the lens of National Geographic photographer Anand Varma.
- CSF Solar Series | Tues., May 24 | 3:30-5:30 p.m. | Couillard Solar Foundation, 10 Liberty Street, Deerfield | A conversation + educational program about solar energy and our Earth for children aged 8-12.
- Live from Leo’s: Toyger Jazz Quartet | Tues., May 24 | 6-8 p.m. | Leopold’s Books Bare Caffe | Free | A night of spring tunes from the local four-piece group.
- Chunky Blanket Workshop | Tues., May 24 | 5:30-9 p.m. | Capital Speed, 118 Industrial Dr., Marshall | $92 | Learn from the team at Wine & Design as you craft your own blanket + sip on wine.
- Eastside Farmers’ Market | Tues., May 10 | 4-7 p.m. | McPike Park, 202 S. Ingersoll St. | Free entry | A weekday farmers’ market with fresh veggies, cheeses, and meats.
- Capital Brewery Bike Club Ride | Tues., May 24 | 5:30 p.m. | Capital Brewery, 7734 Terrace Ave., Middleton | Free | Subscribe + enjoy a season’s worth of weekly Tues. and Thurs. rides with brewery friends.
- General Trivia | Tues., May 24 | 7-9 p.m. | The Rigby Pub | Free entry | Test your trivia knowledge with friends to compete for weekly prizes.
Wed., May 25
- Hilldale Farmers’ Market | Wed., May 25 | 8 a.m.-1 p.m. | Hilldale, behind L.L Bean | Free | Spend an afternoon at the mall and shop outdoors for produce, gifts + more.
- Friends Theme Trivia Night | Wed., May 25 | Times vary | The Eloise, 2212 County Highway Jg, Mount Horeb | $40+ | Compete for Friends-themed prizes + use a surprise drinking cup for the night.
- Board Game Night | Wed., May 25 | 6-10 p.m. | Bierock, 2911 N. Sherman Ave. | Free entry | Join the monthly tradition of playing tabletop games until close.
- Jim Berkenstadt in conversation with Doug Moe | Wed., May 25 | 6 p.m. | Mystery to Me, 1863 Monroe St. | Free | Hear about the author’s new book in discussion with host Doug Moe.
- Waunakee Farmers’ Market | Wed., May 25 | 3-6 p.m. | Rocky Rococo Pizza and Pasta, 301 S. Century Ave., Waunakee | Free | A chance to shop for some locally grown produce from area farmers + vendors.
Thurs., May 26
- Elements | Thurs., May 26 | 7-9 p.m. | The Bur Oak | $10.55 | Strap in for a nice of space rave tunes from the 3-part electronica band.
- Makaya McCraven | Thurs., May 26 | 7:30 p.m. | High Noon Saloon | $15 | Explore the intersection of jazz + electronic music with the renowned Chicago-based musician.
- Capital Brewery Bike Club Ride | Thurs., May 26 | 5:30 p.m. | Capital Brewery, 7734 Terrace Ave., Middleton | Free | Subscribe + enjoy a season’s worth of weekly Tues. and Thurs. rides with brewery friends.
- Nikon Camera Basics | Thurs., May 26 | 5:30-7:30 p.m. | The Camera Company, 6742 Odana Rd. | $50 | Take a two-hour instructional course diving into camera tips + tricks to help understand your DSLR.
- Sounds of Summer Concert Series | Thurs., May 26 | 5:30-8:30 p.m. | Below Deck at Grand Crossing Park, 6320 Inland Wy., Monona | Free | Bring your lawn gear to set up shop and enjoy a night of tunes + refreshments by Buck and Honeys.
- Raising Red | Thurs., May 26 | 6-9 p.m. | Come Back In, 508 E. Wilson St. | Free entry | Hear the band’s new album during the five-piece jam session with friends.
Fri., May 27
- The Cuz | Fri., May 27 | 7-10 p.m. | The Bur Oak | $10.55 | Listen to a set from the band dedicated to restoring the good name of rock and roll.
- The Last Revel | Fri., May 27 | 8 p.m. | High Noon Saloon | $15 | A night of relaxing porch tunes blending indie, folk + other sounds.
- Hilldale Farmers’ Market | Fri., May 27 | 8 a.m.-1 p.m. | Hilldale, behind L.L Bean | Free | Spend an afternoon at the mall and shop outdoors for produce, gifts + more.
- World’s Largest Brat Fest | Fri., May 27-Sun., May 29 | 10 a.m.-9 p.m. | Willow Island, Alliant Energy Center | Check out the must-see community festival + philanthropy that’s raised nearly $2 million selling brats for local charities.
- PKFit Field Trip | Fri., May 27 | 5-9 p.m. | 1012 S. Park St. | Relive the glory days of grade school field day while completing a series of games and events with community members.
Sat., May 28
- Tori Amos | Sat., May 28 | 7:30 p.m. | The Orpheum Theater | $39.50+ | Take a musical journey with the prodigious signer + songwriter with a storied past.
- Free Disc Golf Day | Sat., May 28 | 4 a.m.-10 p.m. | Elver Park, 1250 McKenna Blvd. | Free | Play a round or two during a no permit required day on the course.
- Damien Jurado | Sat., May 28 | 8-10 p.m. | The Bur Oak | $25+ | An eclectic show from musical storytellers Damien + Chris.
- Memorial Mile | Sat., May 28 | 9 a.m. | Olbrich Park | Free | Volunteer to help Veterans for Peace commemorate lost ones during the annual mile event.
- Bird and Nature Outing | Sat., May 28 | 10-11:30 a.m. | Aldo Leopold Nature Center, 330 Femrite Dr., Monona | Participate in the naturalist-led walk for some outdoor time with some education along the way.
May 29-May 31
Sun., May 29
- The Dead Bolts, The Present Age, The Scratch Offs | Sun., May 29 | 8-11 p.m. | The Bur Oak | $15 | Rock tunes performed by the Chicago-based garage band.
- Run Madtown | Sun., May 29 | Times vary | Capitol Square | $50+ | Race through one of Madison’s favorite traditions with the half marathon or 5k events.
- Monroe Street Farmers Market | Sun., May 29 | 9 a.m.-1 p.m. | Edgewood High School, 2219 Monroe St. | Free | Shop a mix of fresh produce, meats + cheeses, plus specialty gifts and other retail goodies.
- Annie Emmenegger | Sun., May 29 | 10 a.m.-1 p.m. | Hop Garden Brewery Tap Room, 6889 Canal St., Belleville | Free entry | Enjoy a serenade from the folk + blues musician plus imbibe with local brews.
- Pints for Pups | Sun., May 29 | 11 a.m.-3 p.m. | Garver Feed Mill | Free entry | Support Underdog Pet Rescue with $1 drink donations and play with adoptable pups in the Madison area.
Mon., May 30
- Open Mic Comedy Night | Mon., May 30 | 7-10 p.m. | The Venue on Winnebago, 2262 Winnebago St. | Free | Hear five-minute sets from local comedians engaging with the Madison standup scene.
- Madison Mallards vs. Lakeshore Chinooks | Mon., May 30 | 4:05 p.m. | Warner Park, 2920 N Sherman Ave. | $13+ | Watch the Mallards take on the ball club from Mequon, WI.
- Monday Group Run | Mon., May 30 | 5:45-6:45 p.m. | Movin’ Shoes, 528 S. Park St. | Free | An evening of exercise for runners of all ability levels
- Memorial Day Concert and Ceremony | Mon., May 30 | 9:15 a.m.-11:30 a.m. | Forest Hill Cemetery, 1 Speedway Rd. | Commemorate the holiday and honor loved ones with music from the VFW Band.
Tues., May 31
- Never Come Down | Tues., May 31 | 7-10 p.m. | The Bur Oak | $12+ | A five-piece Americana and Bluegrass fusion set to soothe the ears and soul.
- Eastside Farmers’ Market | Tues., May 31 | 4-7 p.m. | McPike Park, 202 S. Ingersoll St. | Free entry | A weekday farmers’ market with fresh veggies, cheeses, and meats.
- Sweet and Savory Grilling | Tues., May 31 | 7 p.m. | Sur La Table, 712 N. Midvale Blvd. | $79 | Can’t decide between sweet or savory — try your hand at grilled rustic bread, grilled fish, and grilled nectarines.