July is just around the corner and Madison is the place to be. But where to begin? We’ve curated a list of different ways to spend the month and dug into more events in the City Cast Madison podcast.
Live Music & Festivals
- McPike Park will host La Fête De Marquette from July 11-14. This is a free festival with a ton of artists from all over the world.
- July 18-21 is Maxwell Street Days. Taking place on State Street and the Capitol Square, there will be many local shops and restaurants offering different discounts, larger patio spaces, and live music.
- Looking for more tunes? Check out this roundup of where to catch live music around town.
Lake Activities
- Burgers by the Bay is a great way to spend a summer afternoon. Brittingham Boats will hold this event July 5,12,19, and 26. Get your appetite ready for burgers from the floating burger pontoon in the middle of Monona Bay.
- The Pontoon Porch is a two-level pontoon boat that can hold you and up to 29 of your friends. Bring your own food and drinks and enjoy the grill that’s onboard.
Where to Find Fireworks
- Shorewood Hills Fireworks will be at the Black Hawk Country Club. These will take place July 4 at dusk. They will also host a parade, picnics, and more.
- Monona Community Festival will take place between July 3-4 at Winnequah Park. The fireworks will be on July 4 at dusk. There are also scheduled events throughout both of the days to celebrate the holiday. This is (potentially) the fest’s last year, so don’t miss out!
- The Madison Mallards will have a fireworks display after their game July 3 against the Wisconsin Rapid Rafters. What’s a better summer activity than a softball game and some fireworks?!
- Get on a pontoon and cruise on Lake Mendota to get the best seat for the fireworks. Book a pontoon now from 8-10 p.m. on July 4.








