August in Madison is full of festivals for every interest. Whether you're craving delicious food, eager to catch diverse music performances, or searching for fun activities for the kids, there’s something for you. We’ve wrapped up 15 festivals for you to hit up this month.
Wisconsin State Fair: While it isn’t in Madison, the Wisconsin State Fair is always a must. This huge event is from Aug. 1-11 in West Allis. Check out different rides, fried food you couldn’t imagine, petting zoos, and more.
North Star Fest: On Aug. 3, North Star Fest will take over Pocket Park. There will be live music, food vendors, and a 50/50 raffle. There are also a ton of events for kids including crafts, an obstacle course, and more.
Madison Night Market: Aug. 8 will be another one of Madison’s Thursday night markets. With vendors all along State Street and around Capitol Square, you can get everything from food to vintage clothing.
McPike Park Sessions: For the second time this summer, McPike Park Sessions is back from Aug. 8-11. Enjoy music from artists all around the world each day of the festival.
Africa Fest: On Aug. 17, Africa Fest will be at McPike Park. This free festival will take place from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. and is put on by the Africa Association of Madison. Their goal is to emphasize diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Really Really Free Market: On Library Mall, Aug. 17, the Really Really Free Market will return, focusing on mutual aid. They accept items like period products, toiletries, and bedding, but no clothing. Masks are required.
Madison Taco & Margarita Fest: The Alliant Energy Center will host this festival with tacos and margs as far as the eye can see on Aug. 17. You can also catch some live pro wrestling while enjoying your margarita and tacos.
Coffee Break Festival: Stoughton will have its 24th annual Coffee Break Festival Aug. 17 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. This event includes a coffee brew-off, Cup O’ Joe All Wheels Show, crafts, and more.
Eken Park Festival: Aug. 17 will be the annual Eken Park Festival. From 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., enjoy five different musical artists along with plenty of food vendors. This festival will take place at 2407 Coolidge St.
Magic Pride Festival: OutReach LGBTQ+ Community Center will host their sixth annual Magic Pride Festival at Warner Park Aug. 18 from 1-6 p.m. and features local LGBTQ+ performers, different food vendors, and more.
Orton Park Festival: This three-day festival is full of live music for the community to enjoy. Taking place at Orton Park from Aug. 23-25, there is plenty of time to catch the action.
Good Neighbor Festival: Middleton will host its Good Neighbor Festival Aug. 23-35. There will be six different musical acts, a 5k run/walk, an art fair, and the announcement of the Good Neighbor Award recipient.
Seltzer and Cider Fest: From 4-7 p.m. on Aug. 24, Seltzer and Cider Fest will be at Breese Stevens Field. Featuring local and national vendors, there will be a ton of different beverages for people to sample.
Water Lantern Festival: Head over to Warner Park on Aug. 24 for the Water Lantern Festival. Gates will open at 5 p.m. where folks can enjoy music and food trucks. At 7:30 p.m., people can decorate their lanterns which will be released between 8-9 p.m.
Curd Fest: The most Wisconsin festival of them all — Curd Fest! This festival will be at Breese Stevens Field from 3-6 p.m. on Aug. 25. From traditional cheese curds to ones that break boundaries, there will be a ton to sample. There will also be different activities for kids like face painting and yard games. Oh yeah, and a cheese curd eating contest.
Taste of Madison: On Aug. 31 and Sept. 1, Capitol Square will host the Taste of Madison, featuring over 80 food vendors and live music at multiple stages. Sample delicious bites and enjoy the tunes!
