Enjoy a New Game or Puzzle

Accomplishing a new puzzle or bonding over a classic board game is something almost anyone can get behind. Bring the fun home for the holidays with a new game or puzzle from I’M BOARD! Games & Family Fun, a game store that is home to a vast selection of entertainment items. Plus, the store has an “open gaming” area where patrons can play games and test items before purchasing.

Gingerbread House Kits

This time of year, Clasen’s European Bakery transforms into a winter wonderland. Clasen’s is a must-stop spot in December, from the bakery’s child-sized gingerbread house (perfect for photos) to their assortment of homemade, seasonal baked goods and candies. Additionally, Clasen’s sells gingerbread house kits — perfect for those looking to accomplish a classic, seasonal craft. Each kit is filled with everything needed to make a magical mini holiday home, including gingerbread pieces, chocolates, colorful assorted candy and white chocolate glue — all hand-cut and hand-made by Clasen’s master bakers. The gingerbread house kits are available for store pick-up, local delivery, and nationwide shipping.

Golf for Any Weather

We get it — sometimes you need to switch up the scenery and get out of the house, especially during long holiday breaks, X-Golf is the perfect place to do just that. Gather your friends or family and take on a round of indoor golf at X-Golf, located in Middleton’s Greenway Station shopping district. This premier indoor golf and entertainment facility offers state-of-the-art golf simulators that are fun for all ages and levels. X-Golf also provides a full food and bar menu to help fuel your game.

Free Museum and Activities

You can’t let your friends or family leave town without a visit to the world’s mustard mecca — The National Mustard Museum. This quirky  — and free — museum is home to more than 6,700 jars, pots, and tubes of mustard, more than 200 of which are available for sale at the upstairs gift shop. The museum features the Mustardpiece Theatre, interactive displays and plenty of photo opportunities. All patrons can sample mustard before buying at The National Mustard Museum’s tasting bar. And if mustard isn’t your thing, the gift shop also sells other delicious food items, like barbeque sauce, chocolate toppings, jams, maple syrup, and hilarious gift items and Wisconsin-themed souvenirs.

Burn off Energy at PlayN Wisconsin

If you’re a parent with young kiddos, you’ll thank us later for this suggestion. PlayN Wisconsin is the place to go when your children need to burn off a little extra energy when the weather isn’t warm enough to be at one of Middleton’s many parks. Known for being a retailer of superior outdoor play equipment, PlayN Wisconsin also offers an on-site, indoor play facility where kids and parents can test equipment before purchasing. All ages are welcome to play — including toddlers, tweens and grandparents. The play facility is open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday and Thursday, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday.

Children’s Art Kits and Classes

If you need an activity for the young artists in your life, check out Rock Paper Scissors art studio. Children can discover the little things that make their imaginations soar in this dreamy crafting space. The studio frequently offers in-person art classes and events, as well as the option to craft at home with their take-home art kits, which include everything from birdhouse decorating to weaving and so much more.

Warm up with a drink

It’s simply not the holiday season without a peppermint mocha or a steaming cup of hot chocolate. No matter what you like filling your mug with, multiple spots in Middleton sell seasonal beverages that’ll make your taste buds pop and warm you up.  Check out Grace Coffee Co. downtown and its seasonal drinks, including gingerbread-flavored cold brew, lattes and chai tea, as well as Barriques Coffee Roasters, where you’ll find yourself an eggnog, gingerbread or peppermint latte. When on the northeast side of town, stop into Prairie Café & Bakery to order a seasonal hot drink and a warm breakfast. Swing by the drive-thru at Starbucks, MOKA or Scooters Coffee for various holiday-themed drink options.  

Treat Yourself to a Holiday Goodie

Who can say “No” to a sweet treat? Exploring Middleton’s bakeries is a fun outing for the whole family. Check out a variety of delicious, made-from-scratch loaves of bread, cakes, pastries, confections and more at Middleton’s longest-standing bakery, Clasen’s European Bakery. Each year, Clasen’s goes into full winter holiday mode, with seasonal treats galore and, most notably, a child-size gingerbread house in the back of the shop.

A stop at Miggy’s Bakes puts a smile on anyone’s face. This pretty, pink bakery has a dessert case filled with unique-flavored cookies, cookie cups, cakes, brownies and bars. During the holidays, you’ll find the cutest winter-themed cut-out sugar cookies. Plus, on Saturdays and Sundays, the bakery serves fresh cinnamon rolls.

Longtable Beer Cafe has added a holiday “dessert board” which includes eggnog, peppermint chocolate cake, and cookies.

And do not forget Hubbard Avenue Diner’s bakery counter filled with pies, cakes, cookies, brownies and seasonally decorated sugar cookies. Hubbard also carries Chocolate Shoppe Ice Cream, perfect for a sundae or milkshake.

Delight in Downtown’s Winter Window Stroll

Stroll through downtown Middleton and see windows decorated with adorable, hand-painted gnome winter scenes. Local artist Anne Bamberg intricately hand-painted festive gnomes on 14 windows across downtown Middleton with sweet nods to the stores they adorn — for example, the gnomes are decorating a tree at The National Mustard Museum using pretzels and mustard! You’ll be amazed by the beauty of these charming window paintings.

Enjoy Capital Brewery’s Keg Tree

Stacked 18 feet high with 287 half-barrels, Capital Brewery and Bier Garten’s “keg tree” is a sight to see. Admire this tree while enjoying one of their award-winning beers inside the cozy Bier Stube. This brewery has been around since 1986, brewing German-style lager, and now also offering a variety of American-style ales, barrel-aged beers and IPAs.

Find the Unexpected at The National Mustard Museum

This is a fun place to bring visiting family for an afternoon. The museum is free and full of memorabilia and more than 6,700 jars and tubes of mustard to look at. The shop upstairs contains more than 200 kinds of mustard for sale and other delicious food items, like barbeque sauce, chocolate toppings, jams, maple syrup and more, as well as hilarious gift items and Wisconsin-themed gifts.

Join the Fun at These Middleton Events

• Hidden Cave Cidery Drag Brunch: On Dec. 16, Mr.Gay Wisconsin, Michael Lynn, will host a drag brunch at Hidden Cave Cidery. There will be performances by three dancers and a full breakfast buffet featuring food from Vessel Café. The doors open at 10 a.m., brunch will be served at 10:30 a.m., and the show will begin at 11:15 a.m.
• Gingerbread House Workshop: Children aged 5 and older are invited to celebrate the holidays with a crafting workshop from 2-4 p.m., Dec. 17, at Rock Paper Scissors. Children will decorate paper gingerbread houses and ornaments.
• Middleton Community Orchestra Holiday Concert: Enjoy Middleton Community Orchestra’s Holiday Concert at Hamel Music Center. The concert begins at 7:30 p.m. on Dec. 20 and will feature two soloists, Lindsay Flowers on oboe and David Perry on violin. Tickets can be purchased at Willy Street Co-op West and at the door on the night of the show.  
• Make Music Winter: Celebrate the shortest day of the year, Dec. 21, with music in Stone Horse Green and a parade around downtown Middleton. The parade will begin at 3 p.m. All are welcome to join the parade to play instruments and sing carols.
• Fleet Feet New Year’s Day Dash: The 19th Annual Fleet Feet New Year’s Day Dash will begin at 10 a.m., Jan. 1, 2024, at KEVA Sports Center in Middleton. This event is a 5-mile chip-timed run and a 2-mile walk, followed by a party, great prizes, complementary beverage tokens, and giveaways.

From gifts for fashion-forward friends to local art pieces for family members, here in Middleton, you’ll find something special for everyone on your shopping list.

For the fashion-minded

There are plenty of places to find the perfect piece for the fashionista in your life. If looking for women’s apparel that’s stylish, trendy and sure to impress, head to Cloth & Metal, Chauette Fashion & Home, and Tradition Women’s Market in Downtown Middleton. Also in downtown is Journeyman Co., a high-quality men’s clothing store that sells products and brands made in the U.S. but not often easy to find in the area.

And if looking to shop top-retail brands like J.Crew Factory, DSW, J. Jill, Loft, Chico’s and more, then check out Greenway Station, a 51-acre outdoor shopping center minutes from downtown.

For the outdoorsy and active types

If you have some active friends and family members on your list, head to one of Middleton’s sporting goods stores to load up on the latest gear. Wheel & Sprocket is home to great bikes and affordable gear for cyclists, and Playtri Swim Bike Run sells bikes and scooters, as well as all the accessories and apparel for swimming and running. Golf Galaxy is your go-to source for top-quality, brand-name golf equipment, apparel and accessories. Speaking of golf, Middleton’s award-winning golf course, Pleasant View Golf Course, offers gift certificates to golf, shop or take lessons. And, if you’d like to take the golfing indoors, X-Golf in Greenway Station offers an indoor golf simulator.

Cross-country skiers will love being treated to a gift certificate or day pass to Middleton’s CXC Outdoor Recreation and Sports Center, home to miles of beautiful, groomed ski trails. Marshall Boats at Lake Mendota is closed for the season, but water lovers might appreciate gift certificates for lessons or rentals for kayaks, canoes, pontoon boats or paddleboards.

For the kids

Find something for kids of all ages at I’m Board! Games & Family Fun, which sells board games, card games, puzzles and everything else you need for a fun family get-together.  At Tradition Children’s Market, you’ll find a wide variety of apparel, accessories and toys (and there’s Tradition Women’s Market next door for Mom, too). Not only will you find adorable seasonal gifts and party supplies at Little Pop Color Shop, but great kids’ toys, games and art supplies.

For the art and home decor lovers

If you have a family member who has an eye for design or appreciates local and regional art, there are multiple places in Middleton to pick up a gift for them. Stop by The Regal Find for a selection of local and regional artists’ work and take in fine art and a framing gallery at Gary’s Art & Frame Shop. Little Pop Color Shop is a happy shop filled with beautiful home décor, as well.

For the jewelry wearers

Looking for a unique ring, bracelet or necklace to put under the tree? Middleton is home to several specialty jewelers, including Chalmers Jewelers, Diny’s Jewelers, John/Christine Designs, Middleton Jewelers and University Coin & Jewelry. Cloth & Metal and The Regal Find also sell gorgeous, local handmade jewelry.

For the foodies

Middleton’s dining scene is full of flavor! Give the gift of food this holiday with a gift card to one of Middleton’s 80 restaurants or cafes. Or, stop by the National Mustard Museum, where you can shop more than 200 varieties of mustards, a perfect addition to any holiday gift. The National Mustard Museum’s inventory is for sale in-store or online. If looking to add a bottled alcoholic beverage to a holiday basket, look to Hidden Cave Cidery, Capital Brewery, Grape Water Wine Bar or Barriques. Get Middleton-themed coffee blends sourced and roasted by Rusty Dog Coffee and sold at The Regal Find and Sofra Family Bistro. Miggy’s Bakes and Clasen’s European Bakery has delicious baked goods to add to gifts that will surely delight anyone.

MIDDLETON, Wis. — Visit Middleton invites community members to participate in “Keeping Neighbors Warm,” an annual clothing drive that gathers new or slightly used winter outerwear donations for Middleton and its surrounding communities.

Residents and visitors may donate winter outerwear to this year’s “Keeping Neighbors Warm” beginning Wednesday, Nov. 22, through Wednesday, Dec. 13. Drop-off locations include: Keva Sports Center (8312 Forsythia Street), Middleton Public Library (7425 Hubbard Avenue), Willy Street Co-op West (6825 University Avenue), and the Middleton Visitors Center (1811 Parmenter Street). Requested items include winter coats, snow pants, hats, gloves, scarves and boots for all ages. 

“Winter in Wisconsin is a beautiful, magical time, but only if we’re warm enough to enjoy it,” said Mari Olson, director of tourism at Visit Middleton. “Keeping Neighbors Warm is about just that — neighbors helping neighbors during the coldest months of the year. It’s heartening to see how many people rise to the occasion and help our community through this drive.”

Each week, Visit Middleton staff will collect the winter outerwear items and deliver them to WayForward Resources, formerly known as Middleton Outreach Ministry, for distribution. These items go directly to those in the community who are in the most need of staying warm, safe and healthy this winter.

“This drive was a huge success last year and kept a lot of people in our community warm throughout the winter months,” said Ellen Carlson, executive director for WayForward Resources. “Families who access what they need from our Clothing Center can instead focus their monthly budgets on paying for rent and other essential needs. We’re proud to partner with Visit Middleton to bring our community together to help build stability for everyone.”

This will be the second year for “Keeping Neighbors Warm,” hosted through Visit Middleton, the City of Middleton’s tourism department, but it will be the eighth year the office has participated in a clothing drive, formerly known as Big Bundle Up. Last year, Visit Middleton gathered 607 winter outerwear items.

“The Middleton community has supported this drive for years and yet it’s always a humbling experience when we take stock of all the donations brought in,” Olson said. “You can tell that the community values outreach and we are so grateful that WayForward is part of our community and provides resources for those in need. It has been a wonderful partnership.”

For more information about Visit Middleton, go to visitmiddleton.com or follow us on Facebook and Instagram. 

Summer 2023 Events in Stone Horse Green (July-August)

Summer Shop and Stroll: July 20-22

Whether browsing the many unique shops in downtown Middleton for a few hours or the entire weekend, Middleton’s Shop and Stroll event, happening July 20-22, features shopping and entertainment options for all. Businesses in downtown Middleton will offer sidewalk sales, trunk shows and food and drink specials. There will be programming throughout the weekend at Stone Horse Green, including live music, a 15-minute “shopping-style” yoga class, raffles and family-friendly activities.

Here is a full schedule of Stone Horse Green programming during Shop and Stroll:

• 5 p.m., Thursday, July 20: live music from CED B’AETCHE’
• 3-5 p.m., Friday, July 21: live music from Eric De Los Santos
• Saturday, July, 22
  • 9-11 a.m., Stroll & Stretch Yoga
  • 3-4:30 p.m., live music from Gerri DiMaggio Trio
  • Family-friendly activities

Learn more about the event and see what businesses are participating here.

Live Music at Stone Horse Green

Summer Music Schedule in Stone Horse Green:

5-6:30 p.m., Thursday, July 20: Ced B’aetche’

Audience members will surely be wowed by Ced B’aetche’ and his vast repertoire of music. This singer and fingerstyle guitar extraordinaire plays everything from Hawaiian slack key to Americana “big thumb” guitar to 1920s country blues to Parisian waltz. This event will feature pop-up art courtesy of the Middleton Arts Committee.

6-7:30 p.m., Thursday, July 27: Pat McCurdy

If you enjoy live entertainment that includes more than just a music performance, mark your schedule for Pat McCurdy at Stone Horse Green. This Milwaukee icon has a unique performance style that combines comedy, music and audience interaction. This event will feature a pop-up from the Middleton Public Library.

6-7:30 p.m., Saturday, July 29: Host of Sparrows

Catch local songwriting duo, The Host of Sparrows, for some great folk music. This Madison-area duo includes Lis Shea and Zachary Wyatt. This event will feature a pop-up from the Middleton Public Library and Middleton Arts Committee.

6-7:30 p.m. MELVIS “Aloha from Hawaii”

Enjoy a blast from the past as Elvis impersonator, MELVIS, takes the stage to perform a tribute to The King of Rock ‘n’ Roll on the day of his death, August 16. MELVIS will perform highlights from Elvis’s most famous concert “Aloha from Hawaii,” Hawaiian themed outfits are highly encouraged.

7-8:30 p.m., Thursday, August 17: The Lilies of the Midwest

Gather in Stone Horse Green for traditional Irish music from The Lilies of the Midwest. This local trio will inspire any audience with their joyful energy and unique concertina, mandolin and fiddle sounds.

6-7:30 p.m., Saturday, August 19: Orquesta SalSoul Del Mad

If you want a performance that will have you on your feet dancing, check out Orquesta Salsoul Del Mad’s performance this August. This group brings together the fire of Latin rhythm and soul groove. Orquesta Salsoul Del Mad was voted “Best Latin Performer” of the Year by Madison Area Music Award and was a 2022 Wisconsin Area Music Industry award nominee.

Here are just some of the events happening in Middleton this summer (2023). Check out our calendar of events page for more.

Reoccurring/On-Going Events

Greenway Station Farmers Market, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., every Thursday, now through Oct. 5

Get your share of farm-fresh produce and local goodies at Middleton’s Greenway Station Farmers Market from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. every Thursday. From in-season produce, beautiful flowers, squeaky cheese curds, fresh meat and poultry products, homemade baked goods, and local honey, jam and maple syrup — this market has a little bit of everything to purchase and enjoy locally.

Live Music at Capital Brewery & Bier Garten, 6 to 10 p.m., every Friday through Oct. 6

On Friday nights, head to Capital Brewery for a refreshing brew and live music in the Bier Garten. Music starts at 6 p.m., but patrons are welcome to grab a beer and one of the many picnic tables in front of the performance stage beforehand. Guests are also encouraged to bring food in from one of Middleton’s many restaurants or enjoy vendors and food trucks when available on-site.

View the 2023 Capital Brewery Bier Garten music lineup here.

Summer StoryWalk®, June 10 through Aug. 27

Enjoy a story outdoors and downtown with the Middleton Public Library’s summer StoryWalk®, “Jabari Jumps.” Running through Aug. 27, this free activity takes children on a 22-stop reading adventure through downtown Middleton. Maps can be picked up at the Middleton Public Library or downloaded online.

Trivia Night at Stone Horse Green, 7 p.m. every Thursday in June

Put your knowledge to the test by competing in Outdoor Trivia Night at Stone Horse Green at 7 p.m. every Thursday in June at Stone Horse Green in downtown Middleton, an outdoor green space. This free trivia event encourages teams of all sizes to participate. The winning teams for first, second and third place receive gift cards from downtown Middleton businesses.

Live Music at Stone Horse Green

Starting mid-July on Thursday and occasionally Saturday nights, including July 29 and Aug 19, visitors and community members are invited to Stone Horse Green for live music performances. Guests can enjoy downtown Middleton’s beautiful green space while listening to live music. Various music genres are scheduled to perform this summer; visit Stone Horse Green’s event calendar for the most up-to-date music schedule.

June

Prairie Chase Run/Walk & A Celebration of Trails, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., June 24

The Friends of Pheasant Branch Conservancy, the City of Middleton Parks & Recreation and the Dane County Parks are putting on an all-day, trail-centric celebration at Peasant Branch Conservancy in Middleton. There will be a 10K/5K run/walk starting at 8 a.m. and family-friendly activities to celebrate National Trails Day in the afternoon. Learn more here.

July

Drums on Parade 2023, 7 to 10 p.m., July 1

Enjoy live music over the Fourth of July weekend with stellar marching music performances at Middleton High School’s Otto Breitenbach Stadium. From 7-10 p.m. on Saturday, July 1, the Drum Corps International regional members will compete at Drums on Parade, the group’s annual regional competition. Learn more here.

Fourth of July at the Pool, 1 to 4 p.m., July 4

If you’re looking for somewhere to cool off in between your Fourth of July celebrations, from 1 to 4 p.m., head on over to Walter R. Bauman Outdoor Aquatic Center for its Fourth of July Pool Party. This family-friendly event features fun games, contests and concession specials that are sure to make a splash with the whole family.

EAA Pancake Breakfast, 7:30 a.m. to noon, July 9

Drive or fly in for the EAA Chapter 93 Pancake Breakfast from 7:30 a.m. to noon on Sunday, July 9, for the annual pancake breakfast at Morey Airport. On top of all-you-can-eat pancakes, attendees can also enjoy eggs, sausage, cinnamon rolls, coffee, milk and orange juice. There will also be planes and first responders’ vehicles on display. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for children.

Bogey Boogie -Annual Golf Outing, July 19

The Middleton Chamber’s Bogey Boogie Golf Outing is an annual event held at Pleasant View Golf Course every July. This event begins at 10 a.m. and will welcome more than 300 golf enthusiasts to compete in 18 holes of golf. Registration for this event is full, but those interested can put their name on a waiting list. 

Summer Shop & Stroll, July 20-23

Get your shopping shoes on and head to downtown Middleton for a weekend of sidewalk sales, trunk shows and food and drink specials. There will also be programming throughout the weekend at Stone Horse Green. Enjoy live music at 5 p.m. on Thursday, July 20, and a 15-minute “shopping-style” yoga class at 9 a.m. on Saturday, July 23. Learn more here.

Rock the Ramp, 5 to 10 p.m., July 21

Come Rock the Ramp at Capital Flight from 5 to 10 p.m. on Friday, July 21. This free event takes place at Morey Field in Middleton and is the world’s largest pre-OSH (Oshkosh Air Show) fly-in bash. There will be planes, food trucks, an aerobatic airshow, live music, silent auctions, raffles, family-friendly activities and a surprise evening close-out event. All proceeds from the auction benefit the Badger Honor Flight.

August

National Mustard Day, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Aug. 5

The National Mustard Museum in downtown Middleton paints the town YELLOW every year on National Mustard Day (always the first Saturday in August). They have planned many fun activities, games and live music this year. This quirky festival is family-friendly and lasts from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Cruise-in, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Aug. 12

Enjoy an auto show like no other at Capital Flight’s third Cruise-In. This event takes place from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Middleton Municipal Airport; all proceeds are given to Cars Curing Kids, a pediatric research fund at the American Family Children’s Hospital in Madison. There will be food trucks, live music, family-friendly activities, judged awards, a silent auction and plenty of planes and cars to view.

Roll & Stroll for Pancreas Cancer, 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., Aug. 13

Grab your running shoes, walking sticks, set of wheels, or whatever you’d like – Roll & Stroll is back for its 10th annual fundraising event for Pancreas Cancer. To register and participate, choose your course type (walk, run or bike) and create a fundraising goal. There will be a post-event celebration with live music, food, raffles and games.

Good Neighbor Festival, Aug. 25-27

Middleton’s longest-running festival, Good Neighbor Festival, is back for its 60th year. This two-day celebration features a carnival, 5K run/walk, parade, art fair, live music, food and more. Each year, this festival raises money to fund programs in the area and is 100 percent organized and run by volunteers. This year’s theme is “Diamond Jubilee.”

MIDDLETON, Wis. – Enjoy the weather, a walk and a wonderful story while visiting Middleton’s charming downtown.

The Middleton Public Library and Downtown Middleton Business Association have selected their summer StoryWalk®, “Jabari Jumps,” by Gaia Cornwall, starting June 10 and running through Aug. 27. All are invited to venture from stop to stop, while following along with Jabari as he overcomes his fears and makes the big jump.

Middleton has hosted StoryWalks® since 2020, allowing families to follow along with a story, page by page, by visiting 22 stops throughout Downtown Middleton. The stops will have an illustrated poster and can be viewable on a numbered map. Pick up a StoryWalk® map at the Middleton Public Library or download one online at www.downtownmiddleton.com/summerstorywalk.  

Some children will even receive their own copy of the book, while supplies last.

“Thanks to the Friends of the Middleton Public Library, we are able to offer a free book to the first 500 kids who stop by the Middleton Public Library and pick up their StoryWalk® map,” said Katie Ganser, head of youth services at Middleton Public Library.

If interested in donating toward the next StoryWalk® in Middleton, reach out to the Middleton Public Library at jsansing@midlibrary.org – not all StoryWalks® can afford to provide free books to children and donations to the program help make this possible.

​StoryWalk® is presented by Middleton Public Library, Downtown Middleton Business Association and Friends of the Middleton Public Library. The StoryWalk® Project was created by Anne Ferguson of Montpelier, Vt., and developed in collaboration with the Kellogg-Hubbard Library. ​StoryWalk® is a registered service mark.

For more information about Middleton’s StoryWalk®, please visit www.DowntownMiddleton.com.

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CONTACT: Andrea Van Nest, DMBA President, downtownmiddleton@gmail.com

CONTACT : Jocelyne Sansing, Library Director, Middleton Public Library, jsansing@midlibrary.org, 608-827-7425

Middleton

Queer and Trans Perspectives in Healthcare and Beyond

Tuesday, June 20, 6 p.m., at the Middleton Public Library

The Middleton Public Library, in partnership with Badger Talks, the UW-Madison Speaker’s Bureau, will spotlight Pride Month in their lecture series called “Scholar’d for Life.” June’s lecture will feature Jess Waggoner, assistant professor of gender, women’s and sexuality studies and English at UW-Madison. Waggoner will share experiences of illness, disability, and patient-hood for queer and trans people. You can attend via Zoom or in-person at the Middleton Public Library. Learn more and register here.

Middleton Public Library Movie Screening: “Tár”

Thursday, June 29, 1-4 p.m., at the Middleton Public Library

The Middleton Public Library will host an in-person screening of the movie, “Tár.” This movie stars Cate Blanchett as Lydia Tár, a globally renowned, gay and sometimes oppressive conductor of a German orchestra, who finds herself involved in the #MeToo movement. While “Tár” is not based on a true story, certain elements of the film give it the feel of a real biopic. Learn more and register here.

Madison

Pride Ride

Saturday, June 3, 3:30 p.m., at Breese Stevens Field

Forward Madison FC and Trek Bicycle have teamed up to celebrate Madison’s LGBTQIA+ community with the 2023 Trek Pride Ride, a free group bike ride on Madison’s bike paths. This ride is part of the nationwide Trek Pride Ride initiative, with rides occurring all over the United States at the start of June. This is the second Trek Pride Ride in Madison, after a successful collaboration in 2022.

The Trek Pride Ride is free and open to the public. The ride will begin at 3:30 p.m. at Forward Madison FC’s home stadium, Breese Stevens Field, and will return around 4:15 p.m. for a complimentary Happy Hour Breese Stevens. Learn more here.

Drag Queen Story Hour at Colectivo

Saturday, June 10, 10:30 a.m. at Colectivo on State Street

 Celebrate Pride Month with a special coffee, drinks, cookies AND Drag Queen Story Hour. Local queens will read kid-friendly, progressive titles in a positive and welcoming environment. Drag Queen Story Hour provides a space for children to meet and learn about people who defy rigid gender roles and express their own gender identity. It is also a place where parents can learn about gender expression and have the chance to meet people who can share their experiences on growing up gender non-conforming. This event is FREE to attend will take place outside on Colectivo’s patio(weather permitting). Bring a blanket to sit on! Learn more here.

PBS Wisconsin Presents “Wisconsin Pride”

Saturday, June 17, 7 p.m., at the Barrymore Theatre

View PBS Wisconsin’s new groundbreaking documentary, “Wisconsin Pride,” at the Barrymore Theatre. This two-hour film was created in collaboration between PBS Wisconsin and the Wisconsin Historical Society to bring the state’s hidden LGBTQIA+ stories forward, and reconsiders our state’s history in that light. Reserve a spot to this free event and learn more here.

Wisconsin LGBT Chamber’s Pride Business Showcase

Tuesday, June 20, 5:30-7:30 p.m., at the Best Western Plus InnTowner Madison

Join the award-winning Wisconsin LGBT Chamber of Commerce for a fun evening to celebrate Pride and the different businesses and individuals throughout the state that support the LGBTQIA+ community. All are welcome to this free signature event. Learn more about this free event here.

Pride Family Portraits hosted by OutReach

Various dates and times at Hilldale Shopping Center

Bring your kids, partners and chosen families for a professional photo op at the Hilldale Rainbow Wall, located between Shake Shack and Gigi’s Cupcakes. You may register for a photo slot during any of the following dates:

• Thursday, June 8, from 3-5 p.m. (608 Day)
• Tuesday, June 13, from 4-6 p.m.
• Sunday, June 18, from 2-4 p.m. (Father’s Day)

A limited number of photo slots are available, so registration is recommended. Registered families get priority, but photos will be taken on a first come-first served basis. Learn more and reserve your spot here.

Header photo taken at The Regal Find, a locally-owned Middleton gift shop.

Pick your spot for live music this summer:

Stone Horse Green

Beginning in May, visitors and community members can come together for Thursday and Saturday programming at Stone Horse Green, a downtown green space with stage, seating and more. Check the calendar to see what’s in store this summer for live music, trivia and more. Stone Horse Green was created as a centralized location in downtown Middleton for people to gather together. The space is ADA accessible and includes an outdoor stage and band shell, bistro tables, art installations, a fire pit, public restrooms (open during business hours), and a beautiful green space for guests to enjoy. Picnics in Stone Horse Green are highly encouraged, pack your own or order takeout from one of the many nearby restaurants.

For the most up-to-date music and entertainment schedule, visit Stone Horse Green’s calendar.

Dogs are only permitted on the sidewalk at Stone Horse Green. Alcohol may be brought in (unopened) in plastic or aluminum containers. No glass allowed in Stone Horse Green, or pre-opened beverages.

Capital Brewery and Bier Garten

On Friday nights, head on over to Capital Brewery for a refreshing brew and live music in the Bier Garten. On top of being known for their award-winning German-style lagers, Capital Brewery’s Bier Garten is a summertime favorite in Middleton. Starting at 6 p.m. every Friday mid-May through the first week in October, the Bier Garten hosts live music on its performance stage. Patrons are invited to grab a beer and one of the many picnic tables lined up in front of the performance stage. In case of rain, a waterproof tent is available.  The nighttime ambiance is made even better with the option to bring in food from Middleton restaurants, or enjoy vendors and food trucks when available on site.

View the 2023 Bier Garten music lineup here.

Hidden Cave Cidery

Throughout the year, Hidden Cave Cidery offers live music most Saturday nights. When the weather gets nice, performers are moved from the indoor tasting room to the outdoor patio space. Performers range in genres but typically specialize in jazz, bluegrass, folk and acoustic. See full schedule here.

Hidden Cave Cidery was founded by a local Wisconsinite and award-winning cider maker, Walker Fanning, a University of Wisconsin-Madison grad with a dream to support local Wisconsin agriculture. Every bottle of Hidden Cave cider is packed with Wisconsin apples and often sweetened with honey from Mount Horeb.

Looking to enjoy more live music this summer? Check out these upcoming events:

• Middlestock Music Festival: June 3, 2023 from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Stone Horse Green
• Pie & Ice Cream Social: June 7, 2023 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Lakeview Park
• Make Music Middleton: June 21, 2023 from 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. around Downtown Middleton
• Drums on Parade: July 1, 2023 from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. at Breitenbach Stadium
• National Women’s Music Festival: July, 6-9, 2023 at Madison Marriott West
• Rock the Ramp: July 21, 2023 from 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. at Capital Flight
• National Mustard Day: August 5, 2023 from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. outside the National Mustard Museum

Here are four reasons why we’re greener:

Middleton loves the outdoors

It’s our lush green spaces, extensive trails and blue waters that make it easy to want to be outdoors. In fact, more than 25 percent of the City of Middleton’s land is dedicated to outdoor, open spaces. Middleton is a place where bikers can spend the day, adventure seekers can traverse through 549 acres of protected conservancy land, water lovers can easily jump into Lake Mendota, golfers can play on an award-winning course with breathtaking view, and so much more.

Breath in the fresh air while visiting Greenway Station—a 41-acre open air shopping center, and spend some time in the completely walkable downtown shopping district of Middleton. Find shopping, restaurants and several stops on the Middleton Outdoor Art Trail or take a trip back in time to experience Middleton’s historic past by embarking on one of the Middleton Area Historical Society‘s walking or landmark tours.

And lastly, after your day of outdoor activity, we highly encourage finding a spot to kick back and enjoy an iced cold beverage and mouth-watering food while listening to live music and/or sitting on a patio.

No need to bring your car, we’ve got you connected

Middleton is also well connected via trail. With more than 27 miles of trails, it’s easy to take it all in without having to use a vehicle. Middleton’s community trails lead to playgrounds, recreation areas and pavilions, as well as nearby places to eat and shop. Explore an updated map of Middleton’s trails here.

If you do travel to Middleton with a vehicle, there are several electric vehicle public charging stations. Find a charging station that works for you:

• Downtown: 7428 Terrace Ave and 7428 Terrace Ave
• Greenway Station: 1611 Aspen Commons
• East Middleton: 6825 University Ave
• North Middleton: 8000 Airport Rd, 7185 High Rd and 6829 Co Rd K
  

We emphasize local produce

On top of our extensive food scene of more than 70-plus restaurants, we love eating food that is sourced locally. Whether that be by picking up produce at the Greenway Station Farmers Market for a homemade meal, or stopping at a local restaurant that features menu items made with locally-sourced ingredients, Middleton offers farm-fresh goodness.

Our community is committed

Much of Middleton’s ability to be a green city can be contributed to our community members strong dedication and desire to preserve and protect the environment and the city’s natural beauty. The City of Middleton has pledged to establish goals to meet 100% of their energy needs with renewable energy by 2040 and 100 percent of community-wide energy needs with renewable energy by 2050. From the leadership of the City of Middleton’s Sustainability Committee, to the Morey Field five-megawatt solar project that hosts 1.5 megawatts of solar power for the City of Middleton and the Middleton-Cross Plains Area School District, to Middleton’s Municipal Airpot, Morey Field, offering a fully unleaded aviation fuel option, all the way to local businesses and individual community members who are passionate about supporting climate change, Middleton is leading the way on becoming a greener city.

With March Madness upon us, Visit Middleton and the National Mustard Museum think we can elevate this game one flavor profile at a time with MUSTARD MADNESS.

That’s right, you can now vote on your favorite mustards — all available at the National Mustad Museum in downtown Middleton, as well as through its online guide. This bracket includes some of the museum’s most popular flavors and brands, from sweet and spicy, to fruity or hot. These mustards will compete head-to-head on Visit Middleton’s Facebook and Instagram stories.

You can also check back here to follow the winners!

Here are the additional details for the 2023 Mustard Madness:

• All voting will occur on Visit Middleton’s Facebook and Instagram stories.
• The tournament will take place March 20-April 7.
• New voting opportunities for each category Monday-Thursday, winner of each round will be announced on Fridays.
• All story polls will be released at 10 a.m. each day.
• The champion will be announced on April 7.

View the 2023 Mustard Madness Bracket here (Reminder: voting occurs on Visit Middleton’s Facebook and Instagram stories only).  You can find all the mustards at the National Mustard Museum’s online store.