This week, Madison is the exact center of the jam-band universe. The venerable rock band Phish is kicking off its 2026 summer tour with two shows at the Kohl Center, July 7 and 8.
If you’re in town for the shows and want to connect with other Phish Heads (or “phans”), here’s what you need to know – from ticket info, pre- and post-show parties, and, of course, our local weed laws.
🤔 So What Is Phish, Anyway?
First of all, for those locals who are wondering what all the fuss is about, Phish was formed in Burlington, Vermont back in 1983. Blending different genres and known for their lengthy improvisational jams, Phish ensures that no two of the over 2,000 shows they’ve played are ever the same, building a large and loyal audience who will travel far (including 13 shows at Las Vegas’ Sphere) to experience their live concerts.
The two shows in Madison kick off a busy summer for Phish that includes five nights at Taylor Swift’s wedding venue and two nights at Boston’s Fenway Park, so it’s a big deal that they decided to start the tour here.
🎟️ Can I Get a Miracle?
If you haven’t gotten tickets yet, you’re not out of luck! The Kohl Center opened up a bunch of $118 tickets behind the stage for both shows, and there’s a few more tickets ($96-130) scattered here and there in the arena.
🚗 How To Get There
There are several parking garages around the Kohl Center operated by UW Athletics, but they can fill up fast. Lots open at 5 p.m. A bunch of privately-owned lots will also offer spaces to park, and there is neighborhood parking, although you might have to walk a bit.
As another option, the Annex is offering a free shuttle to and from the stadium as part of its pre-show party. If you’re a local, expect the area around the Kohl Center and Regent Street to be busy!
🌱 What’s the 411 on 420?
Not to generalize about Phish fans or anything, but you might want to know about Madison’s weed laws before you come to town. TL;DR: recreational marijuana is illegal in Wisconsin, but possession is decriminalized in Madison, and police won’t pursue charges without a reason. Similar products like delta-8 and delta-9 THC are also legal (for now).
The UW-Madison Memorial Union Terrace is a great place to hang out before seeing Phish at the Kohl Center. (UW-Madison News)
🎉 What To Do Before The Show
Speaking of pre-show parties, in addition to the Annex, Lola’s Hi/Lo Lounge will be pre-gaming starting at 1 p.m. with themed tacos and cocktails and DJ Mars Starstuff spinning jam bands on vinyl. Joe Marcinek is playing a free show on the patio at the High Noon Saloon at 4 p.m.
Hungry? I’d recommend starting your Madison experience with brats, beer, and cheese curds on the UW Memorial Union Terrace, which is only three blocks from the Kohl Center. Closer to the arena, get an iconic Madison burger at either Dotty’s Dumpling Dowry or the Nitty Gritty. Grab a slice at Ian’s Pizza on Frances Street, some great vegetarian tacos at Bandit Tacos, or head down Regent Street for some terrific fried chicken at Butterbird.
🥳 Keep the Party Going
After the show, head over to Liquid to see Pink Floyd-Talking Heads-Fish cover band Pink Talking Fish play starting at 11 p.m. Or see Armchair Boogie at the Majestic Theatre, or Dead Funk Summit at the High Noon.
If you’re looking for late-night eats, Conrad’s on State Street offers sandwiches and wraps until 2 a.m.
☕ The Morning After
If you’re nursing a hangover the next day, or just need to clear your head, downtown Madison has many great locally-owned coffee shops to perk you up. Or maybe head outside and enjoy the natural beauty of the city with a rejuvenating hike.
