Warmer weather means more activities in downtown Madison. In addition to the weekly farmers’ market, a variety of events are held every summer on the bustling capitol square.

Concerts on the Square

Each summer the Wisconsin Chamber Orchestra presents Concerts on the Square, and 2013 marks their 30th season. Beginning June 26 and running six consecutive weeks, performances occur every Wednesday at 7 p.m. on the King Street corner of the capitol square. Each evening features a different theme, from the kickoff night’s “Fairytales and Fables” to the season ender “Country Roads and Nether Lands.”

Madison College student Elizabeth Kienitz encourages students to attend this summer. “It’s a really rare opportunity to hear professional, high-quality music for free. The atmosphere is family-friendly and exciting for people of any age.” Attendees are encouraged to arrive any time after 3 p.m. and bring blankets and snacks. Kienitz, a student in the Meeting and Event Management program, exclaims, “It’s a quintessential Madison experience!”

Art Fair on the Square

For one weekend each summer, the capitol square transforms into a sea of booths featuring artwork for sale from more than 450 artists. Hosted by the Madison Museum of Contemporary Art, this year marks the 55th annual Art Fair on the Square. The event will be held Saturday, July 13 from 9 a.m. 6 p.m. and Sunday, July 14 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Madison College alumnus Lia Spaulding attended last year’s Art Fair on the Square. “I’m really into art, so going to art fairs is something I enjoy. As an artist, it’s important to be aware of the art community.”

The event isn’t just for artists, though. Spaulding, who graduated with an Associate Degree in Graphic Design in 2012, said, “It was really fun to walk around, hang out, and look at all of the art.”

Taste of Madison

Ever wanted to try a certain cuisine, but not commit an entire paycheck? Taste of Madison will occur Saturday, August 31 from 2 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. and Sunday, Sept. 1 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. This annual event, which celebrated its 30th year in 2012, offers samples of food from more than 80 local restaurants and vendors, typically priced between $1 and $4 each.