Can you believe summer is coming to an end? Technically, we have until September 23 to soak up the last bit of summer, but it’s already the end of August and the air is getting crisper, the nights cooler, the sun lower, and a new school year is nearly upon us. While returning to “normal” and getting back into routine is appealing, we’re all about making the most of what summer we do have left. Here are a few ways to enjoy it in Madison:
Farmers’ Markets
The Saturday Farmers’ Market on the Square is iconic in Madison, and although it runs from mid-April to mid-November, there’s something so special about starting off your summer weekends with fresh fruits, vegetables, flowers, and, of course, cheese curds.
Forward Madison FC games Forward Madison FC is in its inaugural season, but it’s quickly become a staple in the area. Breese Stevens Field is the perfect atmosphere for a summer night game, and luckily there is still time to catch a game or two. Get tickets for games on August 24, August 28, September 7, or September 22.
Water Lantern Festival Head to Warner Park on Madison’s north side for the Water Lantern Festival – a great way to send off summer! Tickets will gain you access to the event grounds, which will feature food trucks, music, design-your-own lantern crafts, and, of course, the lantern launch.
Yoga On The Terrace
If you’re into yoga, or looking to try it for the first time, what better place to enjoy it than at UW-Madison’s Memorial Union Terrace? Stop by Tuesday-Friday at 7 a.m. or on Saturdays at 9 a.m. Plus, it’s just $7.50 a class!
Live Music
Few things say “summer” like outdoor live music. A great way to send off the season is by sipping drinks on a patio and listening to some great live music. Stop by places like Nau-ti-gal, Capital Brewery, Wisconsin Brewing Company, The Lone Girl Brewing Company, Live on King Street, or Concerts in the Park for some amazing music and a great atmosphere!
Surly Summer Beer Dinner As long as you attend events that have “summer” and “beer” in the title, it’s not fall yet! You’re going to want to grab tickets to this event. Admission will get you a five course and six beer pairing – things like Caesar Elotes, Linguine noodles tossed in a smoked gouda cheese béchamel, slow cooked short ribs, and pineapple upside down cake. It doesn’t get more “summer” than that, does it?
Taste of Madison
Known as “The Largest End-of-Summer Picnic”, there’s no better place to spend your Labor Day weekend than at the Taste of Madison. Enjoy foods from more than 80 restaurants, plus 26 beverage stands and three live entertainment stages.
Lake To Lake Food Tour Anything involving food tasting is intriguing, but the Lake To Lake Food Tour also involves learning the basic history of Madison and its historic architecture, all while sampling traditional local foods and ethnic specialties. Plus, beer and ice cream! Win.
UW Football
Close out summer and welcome fall by attending, or even just tailgating for, the UW Badgers football home opener on September 7! Madison residents young and old go all out for these games, making this city one of the most iconic in the US when it comes to college game day.
Madison Night Market It’s clear that Madison knows how to celebrate its creative culture, and the Madison Night Market does just that! There are four night markets throughout summer, and the last one is coming up on September 12! Stop by and check out all of the specials and discounts offered by many downtown businesses, as well as some crafty vendors, plus tasty foods and drinks, of course!
While the end of summer can be a bit of a downer (especially if you’re not one of those looking forward to the impending winter season), there are still so many ways to celebrate the season before we officially send it off. What are you most looking forward to as summer comes to a close?