Family events in Madison, WI

Kids can get started with fishing in a welcoming, hands-on session that covers basic fish knowledge, how to cast, and how to land a catch. Staff assist with unhooking and safely releasing fish back into the water. Designed for beginners with little or no experience, the program includes all equipment and instruction. For ages 5 to 12. Cost is $15. Chaperones are required, and one chaperone may accompany each group of up to five children. Chaperones do not need to register or pay.

Enjoy relaxed outdoor play in a spacious yard where little ones can explore through building, digging, climbing, riding, and water play. The playground includes a playhouse, plenty of tricycles, a garden area, a sandbox, and other inviting spots for open-ended fun. This gathering welcomes all families, siblings included, and adults supervise their own children. No preschool enrollment is required to participate. Friends are welcome, and it is a friendly way to connect with families from UHP's parent-run cooperative preschool and 4K program.

Part of the Kids in the Rotunda Summer Sessions, this family-focused concert at Memorial Union Terrace brings tropical energy with steelpan melodies. A duo and a trio combine vocals with steelpans, flute, and marimba for an upbeat set that resonates with both children and adults. Admission is free and open to all ages, with a special focus on children ages 0 to 9 and their families.

At Wingra Park, this no-cost community gathering features live music from Saideira Pagode, along with kids music and art-making led by Monroe Street Arts Center and a variety of food carts. Chocolate Shoppe Ice Cream, HWY1, Soho, Epazote Food Cart, and Sabor Regio are scheduled to be on site.

Little scientists can dive into playful discovery at the Westside Community Market. A child-size pool filled with corn and toy trucks invites hands-on exploration and play, while UHP provides chalk drawing on the pavement, bubble fun, and other activities for preschoolers. It offers a simple, sensory-rich way for young children to explore, create, and have fun during a trip to the market.

Love Thy Neighbor is an ongoing community initiative that unites churches, nonprofits, businesses, volunteers, and neighbors to care for the community through practical compassion and meaningful connection. In collaboration with Love First Ministries and Orchard Church, this free Community Care Day brings individuals, families, and local organizations together to share resources, build relationships, and love their neighbors. Attendees can find free clothing and essential items, free coffee from Mercie's Coffee along with water and refreshments, free food, and free haircuts. Prayer and encouragement are available, and community organizations will be present with local resources. Live music and friendly conversation create space for support and connection. Everything is offered at no cost thanks to generous volunteers, community partners, churches, businesses, and donors who believe every person deserves to be seen, valued, and loved. The event will be held rain or shine, and everyone is welcome.

PokeConnect Card Show gathers Pokémon and TCG fans for a weekend-long celebration at East Towne Mall. Bring your cards to trade with other collectors, browse sealed product and unique finds from professional vendors, and hunt for rare additions to your binder. Newcomers and longtime enthusiasts alike can explore the hobby, connect with the community, and share the excitement of collecting. Admission is free.

Adoptable pets will be at PetSmart Madison East, with a small group of animals on site each month to meet potential families. Same day adoptions might not be possible, so interested adopters are encouraged to submit an application ahead of time for pets that may attend. Check the event comments for updates on which animals are expected.

Stop by for the AUG Night Market for an afternoon of vendors and local finds at The Hub. Entry is free, and free tickets will also automatically put you into the event giveaway.

Take breakfast off shore with a paddle to a cafe set afloat on the lake. Arrive by water by renting a boat or registering your own, then choose what you would like and enjoy a stack of pancakes with coffee, juice, and plenty of toppings. Service is available only to guests who reach the cafe by boat, turning the meal into a short adventure with beautiful lake views.

This special Jumperoo session opens the park exclusively for children ages 5 and under and their parents, offering a safe space to jump, bounce, and crawl. Admission is $14.99 per jumper and includes one free parent pass, plus the cost of socks. Dates are subject to change, so check the event discussion for updates.

Ride the Drive 2026 is a free, one-day celebration that opens about three miles of city streets to people instead of cars. Participants can begin anywhere along the route or visit activity hubs at McPike Park, the Lakefront Porch, and Capitol Square for family friendly activities, food, and fun. Organized by the City of Madison Parks Division, the event brings thousands together to enjoy parks and open streets while promoting healthy, active living, highlighting environmental and economic benefits, and encouraging social connection. No ticket or registration is required. Opportunities to get involved include volunteering in roles such as setup, intersection guidance, cleanup, and booth staffing, with a 2026 Ride the Drive t-shirt provided to volunteers. Businesses and organizations can sponsor to reach attendees in support of an environmentally positive event and healthy living. Local food carts, artists, craft vendors, and businesses along the route can participate as vendors or exhibitors.

Celebrate summer on The Grand Plaza with an outdoor brunch overlooking Lake Mendota. This returning Sundays of Summer series takes place every second Sunday of the month and features a rotating seasonal menu showcasing fresh, local ingredients and sunny, summer inspired dishes. It suits a relaxed morning with friends or a cheerful family gathering, and moves indoors if the weather is unfavorable. A prix fixe three course menu is the centerpiece, offering a flavorful way to enjoy the season.

Families can take advantage of a special offer where children 12 and under receive a complimentary children’s entrée, valued at $15, with the purchase of one adult entrée. The offer is limited to one free children’s entrée per adult entrée. It cannot be combined with other promotions, specials, or dip certificates, and it is not available on holidays.

Enjoy a Lakeside Cinema screening of The Princess Bride at Memorial Union Terrace. This 98 minute USA film, presented on BluRay and directed by Rob Reiner, is rated PG. The story follows a young woman and her true love as they strive to reunite after a long separation, confronting dangers across the mythical kingdom of Florin. Based on the novel by William Goldman. Presented by the student led Wisconsin Union Directorate Film Committee as part of Summer by the Lake programming at the Wisconsin Union. Terrace seating is first come, first served, and if weather does not cooperate the Wisconsin Union team plans to relocate the screening to der Rathskeller inside Memorial Union. The on site Brat Stand offers a movie night deal with $1 hot dogs, chips, and sodas. This event is intended for UW–Madison students, faculty, staff, Wisconsin Union members, and their guests, and anyone can become a Wisconsin Union member. Information on available assistive content for WUD Film screenings is available from the organizers.

Designed for little ones and their caregivers, this outdoor class blends simple movement and mindful activities to encourage connection and calm. It welcomes children ages 1 to 4 and takes place in a Madison park, with make-up dates arranged if weather interferes. Enrollment must reach a minimum 48 hours before the class to proceed. Scholarships are available, and questions can be sent to Director@littleomBIGOM.com.

Settle in beneath the oak tree by the Heritage Center for a nature-themed storytime with the Dane County Library System and a visit from the Dream Bus. The program is brief, followed by a creative craft activity and time to browse and check out books from the mobile library. Readings alternate weekly between English and Spanish, rotating every other week. For the most current language schedule, please check the organizer’s website. This free event welcomes all ages. No registration is needed. Children must attend with an adult chaperone. Feel free to bring blankets, chairs, snacks, and anything else that helps you stay comfortable. If the weather is poor, the gathering will be canceled.