Art Fair on the Square is one of the Midwest’s most highly regarded outdoor celebrations of the arts, transforming downtown Madison into a vibrant gallery of creativity. Organized by the Madison Museum of Contemporary Art (MMoCA), this beloved summer tradition draws nearly 200,000 visitors annually. It features a spirited mix of juried fine art, live music, and local cuisine, serving as the primary fundraiser for the museum to ensure free year-round admission.
Event Location & Schedule
- Location: The fair takes place on the Capitol Square in Madison, Wisconsin. Artist booths line the four streets surrounding the Wisconsin State Capitol and extend into the first block of radiating streets.
- General Schedule: The event is held annually on the first full weekend following Independence Day.
- Saturday: Early morning through early evening.
- Sunday: Mid-morning through late afternoon.
- Expansion Note: Due to construction, the fair occasionally expands into nearby areas such as West Washington Avenue.
Market Highlights
- Juried Artists: Nearly 500 artists from across the United States are selected to showcase original works in various media, including ceramics, glass, jewelry, sculpture, photography, and fiber arts.
- Emerging Artist Block: A dedicated section at the top of State Street highlights up-and-coming talent, providing a major access point to the main artist display area.
- Entertainment: Three stages feature a diverse lineup of approximately 20 different music and dance performances, ranging from jazz groups to contemporary dance.
- Local Dining: Dozens of food vendors offer local fare, and a Beer Garden provides refreshments alongside custom DJ sets.
- Art Fair Off the Square: While browsing the main square, visitors can also easily reach this sister event located along Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd, which focuses exclusively on Wisconsin-based artists.
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