April showers brought May flowers, and since it's a new month, here are our event picks for May 2026:
MadHatters ACapella Spring Show
The Overture Center of The Arts
May 1, 2026; 7 PM
The MadHatters, based in Madison, Wis., are the premier men’s a cappella group of the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Founded in 1997, the MadHatters were the first of their kind at UW—and have seen their humble beginnings boom into sold-out shows across campus, filled with adoring fans. Comprised of 13 singers and a vocal percussionist, the MadHatters croon the songs of decades past to the Top 40 present. Built on the foundation of goofy guys making good music and bringing fun to the community, the MadHatters have achieved much success in their short life.
From filling the seats at Madison’s historic Orpheum Theater and acclaimed Overture Center for the Arts to singing for the Obamas at the White House, the MadHatters seem to have their world on a string and their opportunities endless. The MadHatters have one live and seven studio albums, with another live album in the works. Their first album, “State Street,” released in 2002, had a track earn a spot on the 2002 Best of College A Cappella (BOCA) CD and is credited as the first a cappella album recorded in 5.1 Dolby Digital Sound. Their second album, 2004’s “Friday After Class,” exploded their fan base, becoming a “best seller” on a cappella website worldwide. “Not For Credit,” their third studio release, was produced in 2007 and received two national recording awards, including another BOCA inclusion with “I Believe (When I Fall in Love).”
With their unmistakable attire in their Wisconsin red jackets, the MadHatters are a presence on the UW campus that brings everyone to clap their hands and stomp to the beat. Not only does the audience enjoy the show, but the MadHatters love performing it. Whether it be another sold-out show in Madison or singing at your grandma’s 80th birthday party, the MadHatters bring the fun wherever they go. They’ll dance, they’ll shout (shout!), and they’ll shake your body down to the ground. They are the MadHatters.
Wisconsin State Capitol Square
Saturdays, 6:15 AM-1:45 PM
The largest producer-only farmers’ market in the country is on the Capitol Square on Saturday mornings during the warmer months.
Marquette-Atwood Neighborhood Art Walk
May 3, 2026; 11 AM - 5 PM
The Marquette-Atwood Neighborhood Art Walk is a beloved springtime tradition on Madison’s near east side, inviting visitors to explore a vibrant, self-guided outdoor gallery set among neighborhood homes. Held annually on the first Sunday in May, this free event features dozens of local artists showcasing everything from pottery and jewelry to paintings and mixed media across front yards, porches, and studios. With maps guiding the way, it’s a relaxed, walkable experience that blends art, community, and the charm of the Marquette and Atwood neighborhoods—perfect for spending a creative Sunday afternoon discovering local talent.
Disney’s Newsies: The Musical (Starlight Theatre at MYARTS)
The Overture Center of The Arts
May 2-17, 2026; Various showtimes
When powerful New York newspaper publishers raise distribution prices at the newsboys' expense, Jack Kelly rallies his ragtag group of “newsies” to fight back. Inspired by true events, this high-energy musical tells the story of young people discovering their voice and proving that courage and determination can change the world.
Music by Alan Menken. Lyrics by Jack Feldman. Book by Harvey Fierstein. A musical based on the Disney film.
Beauty and The Beast
The Overture Center of The Arts
May 12-17, 2026; Various showtimes
“Be Our Guest” at Disney’s 30th Anniversary production of “Beauty and the Beast,” the breathtaking musical filled with the romance and grandeur audiences know and love.
This enchanting and timeless tale has been brought to life like never before with spectacular new sets and dazzling costumes. The show boasts the Oscar®-winning and Tony Award®-nominated score, including the classic songs “Be Our Guest” and “Beauty and the Beast.”
Reuniting to create this new production are members of the original Tony Award®-winning artistic team, including composer Alan Menken, lyricist Tim Rice, book writer Linda Woolverton, with direction and choreography by Matt West, scenic design by Stanley A. Meyer, costume design by Ann Hould-Ward, and lighting design by Natasha Katz.
“Beauty and the Beast” is the beloved musical that will fill your heart with joy and Disney magic.
Mother’s Day Market
May 10, 2026; 12 - 5 PM
We're super excited to announce that we will be working with WYSO to host a Craft Fair on Mother's Day at the WYSO Performing Arts Center on East Washington Ave!
This amazing space will be able to hold well over 100 artists and makers, will host bars and tenders, and space for food trucks out front as well- we're so excited!
This will be part of a series of events taking place in our home neighborhood, so please stay tuned for more information!
These are ALL AGES, family-friendly events, free to the public with no tickets needed to come and enjoy the fun! You only pay for the items you want to buy from vendors, and the drinks or food you want to consume.
Downtown Madison
May 14, 2026; 5-9 PM
The Madison Night Market is a lively, open-air street festival that transforms downtown Madison into a vibrant evening marketplace each summer and fall. Held along State Street and the Capitol Square, this free monthly event features more than 100 local vendors offering handmade goods, art, artisan foods, and fresh produce, alongside live music, pop-up dining, and performances. It’s a celebration of the city’s creative spirit and small business community—perfect for strolling, shopping local, and soaking in Madison’s energetic downtown atmosphere after hours.
Brat Fest
Alliant Energy Center
May 22-25, 2026
World’s Largest Brat Fest is a beloved Madison tradition that takes place each Memorial Day weekend, bringing together food, music, and community for an unofficial kickoff to summer. Held at Willow Island at the Alliant Energy Center, this free, family-friendly festival features sizzling bratwursts, live music across multiple stages, a carnival, fireworks, and activities for all ages. What started in 1983 as a small customer appreciation cookout has grown into a major nonprofit fundraiser, raising millions of dollars for local charities while celebrating Wisconsin’s iconic bratwurst culture.
Madison Mallards (Opening Day)
May 25, 2026; 4:05 PM
The Madison Mallards are excited to release their 2026 schedule, which will begin on Memorial Day. Visitors at the “Duck Pond” have a wide array of activities to enjoy. Upon entering the gates, families can stop at the Kids Zone and enjoy the Mallards playground, bounce house, sandbox, and more. The Mallards Team Store, located behind home plate, is great for finding the perfect Mallards gear to support the team. If your appetite catches up with you, the Mallards have over 10 areas inside the stadium to satisfy your ballpark food needs.
May 29, 2026; 6 - 8 PM
This family-friendly program allows you and your child to spend an evening together exploring the zoo! Join us for a Pajama Jam and see what zoo animals do after the zoo gates close for the day. Enjoy an animal encounter, story time, and a craft.
Cost: $25. This program is designed for families with children ages 4-10. Children must be accompanied by a paying adult. Pre-registration required.
There’s always more happening around Madison than what you see here, so definitely check out the Isthmus Event Calendar or Destination Madison for more ideas that you can add to your Madison itinerary, whether you’re here for a visit or planning a staycation.
And if you’re planning a staycation, why not choose The Madison Concourse Hotel and Governor’s Club? With our central location and close proximity to many of Madison’s popular points of interest, our hotel offers cozy guest rooms and many amenities during your stay here.