Featured Events in Madison in May, 2025 (August Updated)

City Color: A Solo Exhibition by Vincent Giarrano Opening Reception: Friday, May 2, 5–8 pm | Meet the Artist On view through May 31 Step into the vivid world of City Color, Vincent Giarrano’s electrifying new solo exhibition, on view this May. Known for his masterful sense of atmosphere and narrative, Giarrano captures the energy and nuance of urban life with remarkable immediacy and depth. Whether it’s a sunlit New York streetscape buzzing with movement or a quiet moment of reflection featuring a self-possessed woman in her daily rhythm, each painting tells a story—contemporary yet timeless. With striking color, light, and a cinematic sense of place, Giarrano invites you into scenes that feel at once intimate and alive. His work has been exhibited at the National Portrait Gallery in Washington, DC (part of the Smithsonian) and in London’s National Portrait Gallery—and now you can experience his latest collection right here. Collector Sharon Jarboe puts it best: To step inside a Giarrano painting is to unlock your own experiences and memories of the city. Don’t miss the chance to meet Vincent Giarrano in person at the opening reception on Friday, May 2, from 5–8 pm. The exhibition runs through May 31. New works will be added weekly, so check back often for the latest additions to this must-see show. Information Source: Susan Powell Fine Art | eventbrite

Welcome to the Graced to Thrive Empowerment Brunch ! Join us for an afternoon of inspiration, connection, and growth. This in-person event will take place on Sat, May 03, 2025, at 1:00 PM . Get ready to be empowered by engaging speakers, delicious food, and a supportive community. This brunch is designed to help you thrive in all areas of your life - personally, professionally, and spiritually. Come ready to network, learn, and be inspired. Whether you want to make new connections, gain valuable insights, or simply enjoy a delicious meal, the Graced to Thrive Empowerment Brunch is the perfect event. We can't wait to see you there! Information Source: Thrive with Ember | eventbrite

You're Cordially Invited to celebrate the Madison-Morgan Conservancy's 25th Anniversary at Derby Day! Join us for an unforgettable afternoon of Southern charm, elegance, and the thrill of the Kentucky Derby, all in support of the Madison-Morgan Conservancy's work to protect farms, forests, and front porches for future generations. Spend the afternoon and evening at the Walton’s White Lily House and Grounds, the historic “Peter Walton House,” recently transformed by designers Dan Belman and Randy Korando of Boxwood’s Gardens and Gifts in Atlanta’s Buckhead. Enjoy live viewing of the Kentucky Derby with mint julep in hand, a Run for the Roses raffle, a delicious Derby supper, open bar, a live auction, and the return of Stan DeJarnett's big band, the Atlanta Seventeen! Get your dancing shoes out and dance the night away. Event Preview: 5:00 PM Event Begins Transformation Tour until 6:00pm Run for the Roses Raffle 6:00 PM Parlors Bourbon Tasting (for Sponsors with reservations) 6:45 PM Kentucky Derby 7:00 PM Southern Fare by Epting Events 7:45 PM Live Auction - Bid loud, bid high, bid often! 8:30 PM The Atlanta Seventeen - Big Band Dance Party 10:00 PM Event Ends *Sponsor by March 7, 2025, to ensure your name/logo is included in the event matierials. Because the Madison-Morgan Conservancy is a non-profit 501(c)3 organization, a portion of all sponsorships and tickets sold may be tax deductible. All sponsorships and tickets are non-refundable. Information Source: Madison-Morgan Conservancy | eventbrite

Dub State Battle League presents Mayday Come join us for an epic showdown at 1761 Thierer Rd! Get ready to witness some of the best battles in the rap game. We've got top-notch performers lined up to blow your mind. Don't miss out on this incredible event - mark your calendars for Mayday! Information Source: eventbrite

Nolan Taylor, a highly anticipated event, is set to take place at The Winchester in Lakewood on May 4, 2025. The venue is located at 12112 Madison Ave, OH, 44107. This event is expected to draw a crowd of attendees from near and far. With a focus on music, art, and community, Nolan Taylor promises to be a memorable experience for all who attend. Make sure to mark your calendars for this exciting event in Lakewood.

Welcome to the Paint it Green Festivities ! Join us for a fun-filled day of celebrating Mnetal Health Month at The Joyful Shoppe by the Support Network of Madison. Get ready for an afternoon of live music, delicious food, and mindful and fun activities. Let's come togetehr and support a grat cause- Don't forget to wear your favorite green outfit! See you there on Sun, May 04, 2025 at 3:00 PM . Information Source: The Support Network | eventbrite

Experience a night of heavy metal music at The Winchester in Lakewood, featuring the legendary band Anvil, along with special guests Don Jamieson, Midnite Hellion, and The Velvematics. The event is set to take place on May 8, 2025, at 12112 Madison Ave, OH, 44107. Don't miss this opportunity to witness an electrifying performance by these iconic rock acts. Get ready to headbang and rock out to some of the best metal music around.

Support JustDane through a night of jazz music, food and fellowship! Music by Hanah Jon Taylor, jazz saxophonist & flutist and Dee Alexander, hostof Sunday Jazz at Cafe CODA. Doors open at 5:00pm Event and hors d'oeuvres starting at 6:00pm Cash bar- cocktails & mocktails Award Ceremony at 7:00pm Join us for a fun filled night! Information Source: JustDane | eventbrite

Calling all baseball fans! HYP is attending theMay 9th Rocket City Trash Pandas game against the Montgomery Biscuits! This game also features a Friday night Fireworks Spectacular! Tickets in our block are$18 each! Tickets are limited, so get yours today! Parking passes can be purchased before game day at a discount here: https://reserve.imclutch.com/ Your tickets will also include $2 that can be used at the Trash Pandas Concession Stands or the Junkyard Team Store Access to purchased tickets will be sent to the email you used to purchase your tickets, so please ensure you use a valid email to purchase your tickets! Tickets will be emailed to the email address provided prior to the game. Information Source: Huntsville Young Professionals | eventbrite

CE Training: Suicide & Self-Harm Behavior in Youth Join us as we come together to expand our knowledge on suicide and self-harm behavior in youth. We will explore these topics through an intersectional framework. This will be an interactive session with opportunities for reflective processing and shared learning. Led by Sarah Henrickson and Ginger Francis, this continuing education course provides two CE credits* to all participants. Schedule: 9 AM: Registration, networking, coffee and light breakfast 9:30 - 11:30 AM: CE Training Learning Objectives: · Identify risk factors and warning signs for youth suicide · Incorporate cultural considerations into discussion of suicide · Distinguish between NSSI and suicidal intent · Understand the psychology of suicide · Identify and promote protective factors against suicide *2.0 NBCC*/ACEP #6760 CE Hours - Journey Mental Health Center has been approved by NBCC as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No.6760. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credits are clearly identified. Journey Mental Health Center is solely responsible for all aspects of this program. About the Presenters Sarah Henrickson , MSSW, LCSW: Sarah is a Clinical Team Manager in Journey Mental Health Center’s Emergency Services Unit. She has over 20 years of experience providing crisis intervention services, including suicide risk assessments and evaluations for involuntary psychiatric admissions. After several years as an embedded crisis worker with the Madison Police Department, she now oversees embedded crisis workers with multiple first responder agencies. Sarah is an experienced speaker, providing trainings for law enforcement, clinicians, other service providers, and community members on a variety of topics, including mental illness, suicide risk, and Chapter 51 civil commitments. Ginger Francis, MSW, APSW [she/hers]: Ginger is the is owner and psychotherapist with Shifting Current, LLC , a private mental health practice located in Madison. As an equity-focused social work professional, she embodies an active commitment to dismantling racism and other intersecting forms of oppression and their impacts on mental health and wellbeing within her spheres of influence. Working at a multitude of levels over her career has strengthened her ability to see individual experiences within the greater context of societal structures. Ginger is a healer, change agent, and lifelong learner who believes in cultivating the potential in people and harnessing the power of the healing process. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Youth Mental Health Luncheon Learn about Journey’s school-based mental health services and hear from community leaders about youth mental health. Our panel discussion will include panelists Niquanna Barnett and Amy Marsman, and will be moderated by Ali Muldrow. Lunch is included with your ticket. Schedule: 11:30 AM: Registration and networking 12 PM: Lunch 12:30 -1:45 PM: Panel Discussion About the Panelists Niquanna Barnett (Panelist): Niquanna Barnett is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Clinical Supervisor at Orion Family Services in Madison, WI. She attended Carroll University where she earned her bachelor's degree in psychology and then later went on to attend Capella University where she earned her Masters degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. Niquanna has worked for Orion Family Services for over 13 years. Niquanna has practiced as an intensive in home therapist, outpatient therapist and has also ran groups in the Dane County area. Amy Marsman (Panelist): Amy Marsman is a research analyst with the Wisconsin State Office of Children’s Mental Health. Professionally, she enjoys designing, interpreting, and disseminating strategic research, data, and resources that are meaningful and impactful. Personally, she and her husband have a small business and two middle school students who serve as a reminder that children are at the heart of all that’s important. Ali Muldrow (Moderator): Ali Muldrow is the Wednesday host of A Public Affair on WORT 89.9 FM, MMSD Board of Education Treasurer, and Executive Director of the Wisconsin Abortion Fund. She is a partner, parent, and she loves her two dogs. Information Source: Journey Mental Health Center | eventbrite

Succulent Fairy Garden Workshop - To Mom’s with Love Create your own magical Succulent F airy Garden . Geske's Gardens will provide expert guidance and all the materials you need - (3) succulents, soil, decorative top dressings, and whimsical figurines. Plus no mess to clean up! No green thumb required! This in-person event will be held at the Starkweather Brewing Company . Come early to grab food & drinks to enjoy during the workshop. Make it a special day with friends, family, or as a unique gift or activity for Mom! Information Source: Starkweather Brewing Company | eventbrite

Spend a special day with your mom, daughter, or loved one at our floral arranging Schoolhouse class on Saturday, May 10th, from 9am to 10:30am. During this class, you’ll learn to create stunning bouquets together. Whether you’re a seasoned flower lover or a first-timer, this hands-on experience is perfect for all ages to bond and bring home a beautiful arrangement. Note: Please purchase 1 ticket per person attending. Each ticket covers the cost of the materials needed to create a floral bouquet.  Class will be held on the Farmview Market patio. Information Source: Farmview Market | eventbrite

The World's Oldest, Largest, & Best Speed Dating Company, Since 2001! Are you ready to make something happen? Try the modern, civilized way to meet someone wonderful. Singles across the country know the best way to meet - our IRL speed dating events. Simple, easy, effective. Don't waste time swiping left and right hoping for love to find you, the person you're looking for may be at our event. Get a ticket and find out! Find An Event HOW IT WORKS We introduce you to at least 5 and up to 12 potential matches, all local, quality people. You'll talk to each one during 6-minute "pre-dates" - just enough time to find out if you want to talk more and see if there's a spark. Tell us which person gave you those excited butterflies in your stomach, and we do the rest! You'll love the exciting energy and friendly vibe. Trust the experts at Pre-Dating to host a wonderful evening full of excitement and brewing romance -- a fun night out in a safe environment. You'll love this very efficient and fast way to date. No pressure, no games, just a great time. We've Hosted +38,000 speed dating events! Join the thousands of people that have found their person at our events. Will you be our next success story? Our events have been featured on CNN, BBC, The Wall Street Journal, CBS, Axios, Bravo, TLC's 90 Day Finace The Single Life, Miami New Times, Tampa Bay Times, Southbend Times, Citylink Magazine, Essence, Best of Baltimore, AM New York, Chicago Tribune, WINK FM, Woman's World Magazine, and 100s more! Singles Events: https://www.pre-dating.com/singles-events.html Information Source: Pre-Dating Speed Dating and Lock & Key Events | eventbrite

Experience the ultimate celebration at Taylor Fest featuring Taylorville, brought to you by 101.5 WBNQ & B104. This exciting event will take place at the prestigious Grossinger Motors Arena in Bloomington on May 17, 2025. Join us for a day filled with live music, entertainment, and fun for the whole family. The venue is conveniently located at 101 S. Madison Street, IL, 61701. Don't miss out on this unforgettable experience at Taylor Fest!

You're invited to step into a beautiful room of happy ordinary little things! In a time when the future feels more uncertain than ever, it’s easy to believe that the small joys we once took for granted are slipping through our fingers. That’s exactly why NYC-based artist Samia Fakih has spent the last eight months painting the little things that make life feel light again—fifty mini paintings, each a quiet reminder that beauty still exists in the ordinary. Each painting—which are around four to six inches approximately—is a celebration of light, form, and the sweetness of everyday life. Whether it’s the way light bounces off a slice of cake, the shifting colors in the reflections of fruit, or the simple joy of a single, lonely flower, these works serve as an invitation to pause and take in the beauty that surrounds us. The gallery will be transformed into a bright, glowing space filled with these tiny moments, a place to rest your eyes and remember that even in uncertain times, softness still exists. In an effort to make art more accessible, these paintings are priced starting at $100—carefully considered to reflect the time and care put into each piece while remaining within reach for those who wish to bring one home. But whether you’re looking to collect or simply want to wander through a space filled with tiny, beautiful things, the show is open to all—completely free to attend. Pop by anytime between 12pm and 8pm! 📅 Date: Saturday, May 17, 2025 ⏰ Time: 12 PM – 8 PM (casual reception at 6 PM) 📍 Location: 108 Madison St, New York, NY 10002 🚇 Nearest Subway Stops: East Broadway (F), Grand St (B/D), or Delancey St/Essex St (F/M/J/Z) 💰 FREE ENTRY – Just come by and enjoy the art! For more information, interviews, or press inquiries, please contact: 📩 samiasartwall@gmail.com 📷 samiafakih.com Information Source: Samia Fakih | eventbrite

Experience the unforgettable Cosmic Supreme Tour featuring the renowned artists John Mark McMillan and Citizens, coming to Seattle at the iconic Chop Suey venue. Mark your calendars for this extraordinary musical event taking place on May 21, 2025, at 1325 E Madison, WA, 98122. Get ready to immerse yourself in a night of soul-stirring melodies and captivating performances that will leave you inspired. Don't miss this opportunity to witness these talented musicians live in concert.

Dreamer Isioma will be performing at Chop Suey in Seattle on May 22, 2025. The venue is located at 1325 E Madison, WA, 98122. This is an event not to be missed for music enthusiasts looking to experience a blend of unique sounds and captivating performances. Dreamer Isioma's live show promises an unforgettable evening filled with soulful melodies and energetic beats. Mark your calendars for a night of musical magic at Chop Suey with Dreamer Isioma.

Experience the iconic R&B and soul sounds of Tony! Toni! Tonè! live in concert at Music Hall Center in Detroit on May 23, 2025. Don't miss this opportunity to witness the legendary group perform their timeless hits in a night filled with unforgettable music. Join fans at 350 Madison, Detroit, MI, 48226 for a memorable evening celebrating the soulful tunes of Tony! Toni! Tonè!.

ENM Prom 2025- Into The Woods is set to take place at the Crucible in Madison on May 24, 2025. The venue, located at 3116 Commercial Avenue, Madison, WI 53714, will host this enchanting event where attendees can immerse themselves in a night of elegance and mystery. The ticket price for this unforgettable experience is $25. Join us in this magical evening as we journey Into The Woods at ENM Prom 2025.

Experience the magic of cinematic music at "The Music of Hans Zimmer & Others – A Celebration of Film Music" event happening on May 24, 2025, at the Music Hall Center in Detroit, MI. Immerse yourself in the captivating melodies performed at this prestigious venue located at 350 Madison. Join fellow music enthusiasts in celebrating the iconic works of Hans Zimmer and other renowned composers in the heart of Detroit. Don't miss this extraordinary opportunity to witness a spectacular showcase of film music that will surely leave you in awe.

A Guide to End of Lease Practices with Brende Hofer Turn End-of-Lease Chaos into Seamless Success with a guide to end of lease procedures with property management expert Brende Hofer of Hofer-Steadman Properties. Benefit from Brende's years of industry expertise by taking this highly anticipated seminar. Learn how to streamline your processes, reduce disputes, and achieve smooth tenant transitions. What You'll Learn: Showing During Existing Tenancy Check-Out Procedures Recommended Policies Renewal & Non-Renewal Practices Smooth & Successful Turnovers Security Deposit Returns Tips to Avoid Move-Out Problems Don't miss this opportunity to enhance your skills and simplify your end-of-lease processes. Seminar: A Guide to End of Lease Practices Speaker: Brende Hofer of Hofer-Steadman Properties Location: 2909 Landmark Pl, Training Room: In Person or Online Via Zoom Date & Time: Wednesday, May 28, 2025, 3:30PM - 5:00PM Proudly Sponsored by Bio-One of Madison Information Source: Apartment Association South Central Wisconsin | eventbrite

Thank you for registering for a practice SAT at Galin! The SAT is now only offered digitally. In order to take a practice SAT, you will need a College Board account and a compatible device. If you do not already have a College Board account, please create one using this link . Here is the list of approved devices . If you do not have a compatible device, please contact the office at info@galined.com so we can have one available for you. Along with their compatible device, please send your student’s College Board username and password with them when they come to the Galin office for their practice test, as well as any other passwords they might need such as Apple IDs. Please download the Blueebook App - see instructions below Bluebook download instructions: Go to https://bluebook.collegeboard.org/ . Scroll down and click "Bluebook Digital Testing” under "For Students" on the left side of the page. Click "Download Bluebook Now.” This will take you to a page to make sure you have a compatible device. Scroll down again and click "Download Bluebook Now.” This will take you to the App Store (Mac) or a Download for Windows page (PC). You can then download the Bluebook app. Once Bluebook is installed on your device, open the app. Click “Sign In With A Student College Board Account” and enter your College Board account information. Open the Bluebook App Information Source: Galin Education | eventbrite

Tom Gullion, Matt Sintchak, Greg Smith on saxophones, Paul Dietrich trumpet, Darren Sterud trombone, Dave Spies tuba, Ben Ferris bass, Michael Brenneis drums and compositions. Playing original music from the pen of Michael Brenneis, this formidable jazz octet colors outside the lines. With the notable and intentional absence of a chordal instrument, this music makes unusual demands on its performers. Every piece is participatory; the players are called upon to move more air than they might under different circumstances. Every line of harmony is predetermined, but written with a density, or space, or uncertainty that allows it to breathe in an organic way. The contours of this music develop purposefully. Many of the components are fixed at the same time that the freedom is baked-in. A contradiction? Or an adventure! Plutonium is Michael Brenneis' vehicle for experimentation into the realms of twentieth and twenty-first century compositional techniques—including every diverse idea that that can represent—while maintaining a jazz framework. Isthmus review: Allison Geyer, Isthmus 2018 Jazz music developed during a time of massive industrial expansion in America, and the storied “Jazz Age” of the 1920s and ’30s was marked by a particularly frenetic advancement of machines and communication technology. In some ways, it’s the perfect art form to make sense of the rapidly changing world — the onomatopoeic rhythms and melodies could almost mimic the sound of engines, factories and urban bustle. Michael Brenneis, a longtime Madison drummer, puts an abstract modernist twist on the concept of industrial jazz with his new album, Plutonium, which debuted Nov. 18 at Arts + Literature Lab. Consisting of a suite of compositions with apocalyptic titles, the music is  gorgeous, thrilling and just a little bit terrifying. The sprawling compositions are played by an octet of fabulous musicians — Brenneis on drums,Tony Barba on clarinet, soprano and tenor saxophone, Jonathan Greenstein on tenor saxophone, Greg Smith on clarinet and baritone saxophone, Paul Dietrich on trumpet, Mark Hetzler on trombone, David Spies on tuba, and John Christensen on bass. “Titans,” a more than 17-minute epic, could be an EP unto itself — the opening chords perfectly mimic an air horn warning blast before launching into a woozy, tempo-shifting bop propelled by wild polyphonic melodies and Brenneis’ steady yet nimble drumming. The opening track “Platoon or Peloton” shifts deftly between several themes: first dissonant and militaristic, then driving and melodic, pushing and pulling until the piece builds to a powerful finish. The chilling “Lung Blisters” could be the soundtrack to a post-apocalyptic death march across a toxic wasteland. “Coal Wars” employs a strange but extremely memorable rhythmic pattern and makes effective use of the massive tonal range in the instruments, from tooth-rattling baritone saxophone to piercing woodwind. Title track “Plutonium” builds up to a depraved calliope that showcases the players’ virtuosic talent. How do you even think of music like this? I do not know. But the Greater Madison Jazz Consortium (which funded the project) should give these people more money so they can make another album ASAP. Source:: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J2TE9QYpdgE Information Source: Al Rasho | eventbrite

Siempre Aprendiendo Mural Unveiling : Siempre Aprendiendo translated from Spanish means “always learning.” This installation showcases how education can nourish us all. While the hummingbirds fly from flower to flower in search of nectar, the birds are fed by the knowledge found within the flowers. The artist’s figurative form, flowers, and animals are artfully presented in this beautiful and brightly layered floating mural. This expressive public art project integrates visual art, music, and nature together for a multi-sensory experience to the viewer. This art supports inclusivity and diversity in a rapidy changing neighborhood two minutes from the new Madison Market opening soon . Enjoy this new green space destination featuring art, music, and nature. The newly planted greenspace garden was completed with community volunteer support and the species are to attract pollinators to this friendly garden space. Join us for the opening to see this stunning new mural installation! Light refreshments will be served and recipe cards will be provided featuring a special drink recipe which is the artist's favorite drink. Art projects will be available on-site for kids and adults to paint and color bookmarks and custom artist designed coloring book pages. When? Saturday, May 31st, 1:00pm – 3:00 pm. *Note in the event of inclement weather this workshop will be rescheduled for Sunday 6/1 at 1:00 PM. Where? 2200 Pennsylvania Ave. Madison, WI 53704 Price: FREE! Tickets on Eventbrite. Listen to the Siempre Aprendieno curated music playlist! This project supports the integration of art & music. The artist enjoys listening to music while he is painting and creating in his studio. Now you can listen to this curated playlist that inspired the creation of this beautiful mural. Just scan the QR code and open the Spotify app for the custom playlist. The playlist will be featured at the mural opening! About the Artist : This Public Art Mural features the work of painter, Richie Morales who is living and working in Madison. Originally from Guatemala, Morales is self-taught and is always investigating the role of social justice in his work. His practice uses “legacies of personal and community resilience” and he plays with themes of memory and time. Follow @richiemoralesarte or visit www.richiemoralesarte.com to learn more about the artist. About Madison Public Art Project: The Madison Public Art Project (MPAP) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit arts organization. We present innovative contemporary art in the public realm to a diverse audience throughout Wisconsin. The MPAP’s exciting free public art exhibitions strengthen and educate communities while supporting social justice and fostering local arts and culture. Collaborating with both emerging and established artists, the MPAP relies on grants, individual contributions, corporations, and foundations to support our exhibitions. Our art installations inspire civic participation and encourage artistic imagination. Follow for more details on the project follow @madisonpublicartproject or visit: www.MadisonPublicArtProject.org to make a donation, join an upcoming workshop, guided mural tour, and details for the mural unveiling! Thanks Sponsors! This project was commissioned by the Madison Public Art Project, Inc. with major funding from Ascendium Education Good Neighbor Grant. Thank you to our Platinum Sponsors: American Family Insurance Institute for Corporate & Social Impact, and the Pleasant T. Rowland Foundation. Contact: info@madisonpublicartproject.org This 2 -hour community opening reception. We look forward to seeing you there! Thank you and we look forward to you joining us. By registering for this event, you are acknowledging that an inherent risk of exposure to COVID-19 exists in any public place where people are present. By attending this in-person program you voluntarily assume all risks related to exposure to COVID-19 and agree not to hold The MPAP, its officers, agents, board, or partners liable for any illness or injury. Photographs and videos may be taken during this program. In registering for this program, you allow consent to the MPAP to edit and use this media for its own purposes and understand you will not be compensated for its usage. Information Source: Madison Public Art Project | eventbrite