June means sunshine, markets, and festivals galore in Madison. In fact, the summer can be packed with so many fun events, it’s hard to keep up. Here’s a look at what we’re excited about this month.
Festivals
Summer is festival season in Madison, the first weekend in June alone will bring Festa Italia, Cows on the Concourse,Dragon Art Fair, Cars on State, and Free Outdoor Fun Weekend hosted by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.
The second week of June brings the annual Marquette Waterfront Festival — don’t miss the Fools’ Flotilla! — and Madison Jazz Festival, which celebrates music and culture over 10 days across Madison.
The Sessions at McPike Park is a benefit for local nonprofits that runs June 14-16 featuring an array of talent. Be sure to stop by and say hi to City Cast Madison podcast host Bianca Martin, who will be an emcee at the event.
Anyone like to play in the dirt? Dirt Camp is an independent music festival in Sauk City June 15 that features Midwestern artists, camping, family fun, and more. Stay tuned for an upcoming podcast episode with more detail.
Pride
June is national LGBTQIA+ Pride Month. Being the queer-friendly city that Madison is, there are multiple Pride events happening around town, including the Forward Madison FC Pride Fest Market, the Delta Pride Market, and The Big Gay PRIDE Market.
For what it’s worth, Madison formally celebrates Pride in August with the annual OutReach Magic Pride Festival. But you can find queer-friendly events all year round thanks to the folks at Our Lives Magazine.
The Water’s Fine!
It’s getting warmer outside, so why not cool down on one of Madison’s many beaches?
Boat rentals are available at multiple locations via Madison Boats. And starting June 14, Brittingham Boats will host Burgers on the Bay where residents can paddle out to the middle of Monona Bay and snag a burger from the floating “Burger Barge.”
Before gearing up for a lake adventure, be sure to check a beach’s open status and water quality.
If you prefer to sit poolside, you’re in luck. There are several area public pools opening in June, including the Mount Horeb Family Aquatic Center, the Walter R. Bauman Aquatic Center in Middleton, Goodman Pool on Olin Avenue, and the Monona Community Pool.
Batter Up …
Sporting season is well underway in Madison. But June brings the inaugural season of Madison’s newest sports team, the Night Mares.
The new softball team will play their first home game June 16 at Warner Park.
Looking for more summer fun? Check out the Cap Times’ summer performing arts guide, Isthmus' 2024 summer festival calendar, and of course the City Cast Madison podcast.
