Festivals & Events
Madison, Indiana, offers a variety of festivals and special events throughout
the year.
Come join us in the celebrations! (dates and times are subject to change).Please
call ahead!
Check status of an event by contacting the information number listed or Visit Madison, 601 West First Street, Madison, IN 47250. Phone: 800-559-2956/812-265-2956. Email: info@visitmadison.org
January | February | March | April | May | June | July | August | September | October | November | December
January 2013
| Bluegrass Music | 5 | Jefferson County 4-H Fairgrounds. 6 p.m. Admission free |
| Violin Vertuosi | 18 | Students from IU String Academy at Hanover College, 812-866-7100 |
| Live Bluegrass - High Octane | 25 | at Gallery 115 (115 E. Main), 7-9pm. Gallery Cafe open and serving homemade soups, sandwiches, salads, desserts. |
| The Spoofydoofs' Funnybone | 25-27 | A comedy in one act by Jack Frakes. Presented in the Balcony House of the Ohio Theatre, this fun, family show will be presented Friday, 7:00PM, Saturday, 2:30PM and 7:00PM and Sunday 2:30PM. A special guest performance by local musician Rusty Bladen will be included at the Friday evening and Saturday and Sunday matinee performances. Adults $8, children $5. Little Grand Theatre Company |
February 2013
| Bluegrass Music | 2 | Jefferson County 4-H Fairgrounds. 6 p.m. Admission free |
| The World Underfoot | 4 | 6:30pm. The World Underfoot: Amphibians of Big Oaks NWR. Andrew Hoffman talks about a year of typical amphibian activity at Big Oaks, highlighting different species as the seasons change and following some species throughout the year. Madison-Jefferson County Library, Big Oaks Conservation Society |
| Mojo & the Bayou Gypsies | 8 | Party-down and celebrate Mardi Gras over dinner, Hanover College, 812-866-7110 |
| Schocolade Celebration | 9 | Lanthier Winery, 11am to 3pm, 812-273-2409 |
| Sweetheart Murder Mystery | 9 | Society is shocked by a murder at the elegant Lanier Mansion! Help find the culprit; light refreshments served, 7-9pm, $15, 812-273-4531 for reservations. |
| Wine Lover's Valentine Dinner | 16 | Four-course dinner matched with our award-winning wines. Meal includes ½ bottle of wine per person. $40.00 per person + tax and gratuity. Guaranteed Reservation Only. Madison Vineyards Estate Winery |
| God of Carnage | 15-17 | Hanover College Theatre Production, 812-866-7110 |
| French Kisses | 15-16 | Madison Community Theatre Dinner Production at the Livery Stable, 812-701-3028 |
| Souper Saturday | 23 | Visit all six Trail wineries for a taste of warm soups, breads and snacks. Check www.IndianaWineTrail.com for details. |
| Black History Month Event A Taste of Soul |
24 | A sampling of "Soul Foods" with a talk by Sue Livers about soul food in African American culture. Also, a short talk about the role of the Underground Railroad in the Madison area. 2pm, AME Church, 309 E. Fifth Street. Free |
| Black History Month Event | 26 | Showing of the movie The Help, the story of black domestic workers during the time of segregation. 5:30pm Madison Library Auditorium, 420 W. Main. Free. |
March 2013
| Art in the Twain Room Gallery | 1-19 | B&W/Color Bob Saueressig shows linocuts and new acrylic paintings created in the Oil Patch of North Dakota and on the North Country
lakes. Village Lights Bookstore |
| Bluegrass Music | 2 | Jefferson County 4-H Fairgrounds. 6 p.m. Admission free |
| Derrick Filkins, Flymasters in Indianapolis |
3 | Afternoon fly tying session! Thomas Family Winery from 2-5pm. Derrick will be showing a few of his new flies and new techniques. Fly Guys of Madison. |
| Mixed-up Lecture Series! | 7 | “Saints Preserve Us!” The Irish in America and Community Supported Agriculture. $3, 6:30-8 p.m. at Lanier. |
| The Intergalactic Nemesis | 8 | Comic Book style fun and entertainment, Hanover College, 812-866-7110 |
| Downtown Paddy's Party | 15 | Irish Road Bowling, contests, special entertainment and more. Throughout our downtown. Taste of Ireland. Call 800-559-2956. |
| Author Signing & Reading | 16 | 1-3pm Award-winning area author, John Pesta will be signing and reading from his book, Safely Buried: A Mystery, which was declared the 2012 Winner in the Fiction Category of the Best Books of Indiana Contest administered by the Indiana Center for the Book at the Indiana State Library. Safely Buried also won a silver medal in the Mystery/Cozy/Noir category of the 16th annual Independent Publisher Book Awards competition. Village Lights Bookstore |
| Fourth Friday Art Jam | 22 | Free “happening” on the sidewalks and in the shops. Trolley rides most months. 5-8pm 812-265-3270 |
| Art Opening Reception | 22 | 5-9pm Imagination of Light and Texture Hanover resident, Tatiana Van Iten was born and raised in Russia, learned beading from her grandmother, and graduated from the Leningrad State University with a Master of Arts degree in photojournalism. This exhibit will showcase her work as both photographer and bead artist. Her lush, intricately detailed bead art, the likes of which is seldom seen outside her native land, draws its inspiration from her original photographs. Don’t miss this truly unique show. Exhibit will run through May 21st. Village Lights Bookstore |
| Live Music in the Twain Room | 23 | Cincinnati’s Tom Schneider returns with his mesmerizing mélange of American Songbook standards, Broadway show tunes, bossa-nova/Latin, blues, and jazz on our Steinway grand. Village Lights Bookstore |
| Eggstravaganza | 23 | Easter fun including storytelling, crafts, face painting, historical games, old toys and a visit with the Easter Bunny. Children 3-8. Age appropriate egg hunts begin at 12:45, $3 a child, one adult per child free, 12-1:30 pm, at Lanier. 812-273-4531. |
| Barn Again in Indiana | 23 | 9am-4pm. Workshop will offer practical solutions from experts on how to maintain, rehabilitate and adapt old barns for today’s needs.West Street Art Center, 301 West Main St. $30/member, $45/non-member. Limited space - advance registration deadline March 15. Indiana Landmarks |
| Troilus and Cressida | 28-30 | Hanover College Theatre Production, 812-866-7110 |
| Live Music in the Twain Room | 30 | 1-3pm 88-year-old Jimmy Storms, former member of the Red Skelton Orchestra and backup pianist for Pat Boon, Connie Francis, and Fred Astaire, plays a wide selection of old standards on the Steinway grand. Village Lights Bookstore |
| Author Talk & Book Signing | 30 | 3-5pm Images of America: Carroll County Kentucky resident Phyllis Codling McLaughlin has compiled the new book, Carroll County, latest addition to the Images of America series from Arcadia Village Lights Bookstore |
April 2013
| Featured Artist of the Month | 1-30 | Harry Elburg was born in Holland and moved to southern Indiana from Canada in 1978. He is mainly a self-taught oil painter, recently inspired to paint the landscapes - particularly 'watersheds' - he observed while hunting in the woods near his home. Art on Main, 309 W Main St. |
| RiverRoots Kick Off | 5 | Featuring The Black Lillies in concert at The Livery Stable. $15, limited number of tickets. Call 800-559-2956 to reserve. www.riverroots.org |
| POETPALOOZA 2013 | 5-6 | A Tri-State Poetry Summit. Friday evening, April 5th, through Saturday, April 6th, with hourly readings and signings by acclaimed poets from Indiana, Kentucky, and Ohio, including published poets from Madison and Poets Laureate both past and present of Kentucky and Indiana. Live music Friday evening with The Chestnuts and Saturday morning with Greg Ziesemer & Kriss Luckett. Community open mic Friday Night Poetry Slam. Village Lights Bookstore |
| Bluegrass Music | 6 | Jefferson County 4-H Fairgrounds. 6 p.m. Admission free |
| A Garden Affair | 6 | At Lanier Mansion. Hear gardening advice from Jo Ellen Meyers Sharp known as the “Hoosier Gardener”. Browse our garden boutique and taste delightful spring luncheon with your friends. $25, 12-2 pm, reservations required, 812-273-0556. |
| 19th Century Crafts Getaway | 10-12 | Try your hand at a selection of 19th century crafts including stained glass, tin punch, candle making, floor cloths, Berlin work, herbs and more. Lunch included. $100. (Over 55 only, reservations required.) Call 812.273.4531 for details. |
| Hot Luck & Fiery Foods | 12-14 | Sample and purchase salsas, sauces, dried and fresh spices, hot breads, chili powder, vinegars and pepper plants, meet and chat with the vendors. Cooking demonstrations, Grand Sombrero Salsa Competition, Fiery Foods Jazz Brunch and much more. Get the full schedule & details. Thomas Family Winery |
| Live Music in the Twain Room | 20 | 1-3pm 88-year-old Jimmy Storms, former member of the Red Skelton Orchestra and backup pianist for Pat Boon, Connie Francis, and Fred Astaire, plays a wide selection of old standards on the Steinway grand. Village Lights Bookstore |
| Spring into the Valley | 20-21 | All six wineries on the Indiana Wine Trail will offer special tastings, food & fun. Check website for operating hours. www.IndianaWineTrail.com. |
| Organ Crawl | 20 | Join us for an afternoon of organ music and church history. Organ crawl will feature the four “Tracker” organs in Madison. Tour includes Windle Auditorium, St. Michaels the Archangle, First Baptist Church, and St. Johns United Church of Christ, 812-265-2967 |
| Living with the Laniers | 25 | Lanier Mansion, 10am to 12pm, 812-273-4531 |
| Fourth Friday Art Jam | 26 | Fourth Friday downtown celebration. Free "happening" on the sidewalks & in the shops downtown. Art, music, galleries, shops open late, refreshments. Trolley rides, 5-8 PM pm (most months). Madison Main Street |
| Live Music in the Twain Room | 27 | Cincinnati’s Tom Schneider returns with his mesmerizing mélange of American Songbook standards, Broadway show tunes, bossa-nova/Latin, blues, and jazz on our Steinway grand. 1-3pm Village Lights Bookstore |
| Spring Celebration Festival | 27 & 28 | Lanthier Winery, a weekend of workshops, wine tasting, plant giveaways, grand garden tours and beautiful spring blossoms. 812-273-2409 |
May 2013
| Eleutherian College | 4 | 1:00 pm – 2:30 pm, Free tour of Historic Eleutherian College. 3:00 pm – 4:00 pm, The Escape of Caroline, as told by Robert Sanders and Debbie Asante. Donations accepted at the door. For more details please visit the website at www.eleutheriancollege.org or eleutheriancollege2012@hotmail.com |
| Nickel and Dimed | 3 & 5, 10 & 12 |
A Madison Community Player Production, 812-701-3028 |
| Author Signing and Reading Judy Bently |
4 | 1-3pm Free Boy: A True Story of Slave and Master Charles Mitchell was given
as a wedding present to James Tilton, whose father, Dr. James Tilton, had
established a medical practice in Madison, Indiana and founded the town of
Dupont. In the 1850s, after the death of his father, the younger Tilton moved to
Washington Territory as surveyor-general, taking with him his thirteen-year-old
slave. Free Boy, by Lorraine McConaghy and Judy Bentley, tells the
story of young Charlie’s escape from Washington Territory to freedom in Canada
on the West’s underground railroad. This event is co-sponsored by the Jefferson
County Historical Society. Village Lights Book Store |
| Bluegrass Music | 4 | Jefferson County 4-H Fairgrounds. 6 p.m. Admission free |
| An Evening with Mark Twain | 10 & 11 | 7pm One man show by Mr. Gary Caplinger. First Christian Church, 512 W. Main St. For more info all 812-265-3945. |
| Molly Dattilo Run | 11 | Check-in 7am-8am, Crystal Beach Poolhouse, Adults, $14, students, $5 812-265-6672 |
| Madison in Bloom | 11&12 18 &19 |
Tour beautitful gardens in Madison's National Historic Landmark District. Advance tickets $10, after 4/19 $12, children under 12 FREE. 812-265-2335 or 800-559-2956. |
| RiverRoots Music & Folk Arts Festival | 17-18 | Riverfront between West Street and Broadway. Music, storytelling, folk art, food. Fri 5:30-11 p.m., Sat Noon-11p.m. Admission charged. 800-559-2956 |
Meet the Authors of Hoosier Beer |
18 | Join Indiana beer enthusiasts Bob Ostrander and Derrick Morris on a pub crawl through this
state's proud beer history. He founded the IndianaBeer.com news website and has
been the webmaster for the Brewers of Indiana Guild trade association. Derrick
Morris has a strong passion for collecting “breweriana” (beer memorabilia) from
his home state. He owns the world's largest collection of Indiana beer
history. At the beer tent at RiverRoots. |
| Fourth Friday Art Jam | 24 | Fourth Friday downtown celebration. Free "happening" on the sidewalks & in the shops downtown. Art, music, galleries, shops open late, refreshments. Trolley rides, 5-8 PM pm (most months). Madison Main Street - EVERY FOURTH FRIDAY |
| Live Rockabilly | 24 | Gallery 115, 7-9pm. Slick River Rockets, Madison Vineyards wine. |
| Art Opening | 24 | 5-9pm. Jeremy Miller, Madison native. The show is an
exploration of art forms that surround and inform us on a daily basis, the
so-called 'low brow' arts, such as tattoo, graphic design, and sequential art.
Light refreshments and libation provided. Exhibit will run through July
23rd. Village Lights Book Store |
| Spring Old Court Days | 24-26 | Browse the arts & crafts, collectibles, antiques, food booths, farmer's market & more all around the Courthouse. 9AM-6PM. Free admission. Saturday Fish Fry, Sponsored by the Madison Pilot Club, 812/273-6226. Annual Event |
| Madison Regatta Riverfront Run Car Show | 25 | Car show featuring numerous vehicle classes, awards, trophies. Rain or Shine. Madison's Riverfront on Vaughn Drive. Call Kim Washer at 812-599-6635. |
| Twilight Tasing Dinner | 25 | Four-course, fixed menu, meal with wines in the tasting room or on our covered deck. Limited seating so make your reservations early. Guaranteed Reservations Only. $35.00 per person + tax and gratuity. Madison Vineyards Estate Winery |
| Live Music in the Twain Room | 25 | Cincinnati’s Tom Schneider returns with his mesmerizing mélange of American Songbook standards, Broadway show tunes, bossa-nova/Latin, blues, and jazz on our Steinway grand. 1-3pm Village Lights Bookstore |
| Last Sunday | 26 | Wine, Food and Live Music, the last Sunday of each month May through September. Light snacks and live music from 2 to 5 pm. Madison Vineyards Estate Winery |
June 2013
| Bluegrass Music | 1 | Jefferson County 4-H Fairgrounds. 6 p.m. Admission free |
| Outdoor Women at Big Oaks | 8 | One-day program designed to offer women ages 14 and over the opportunity togain valuable in-the-field skills in an environment that encourages fun and success in the outdoors. The award-winning program teaches outdoor skills to women through a variety of courses including fishing, hunting, archery, shooting sports, wilderness survival, outdoor photography, canoeing, bird watching and much more. Registration forms can be downloaded from www.fws.gov/midwest/bigoaks or all 812-273-0783. Some classes are limited in size, so early registration is recommended. The deadline for early registration is May 10th: $50.00 adults; $35 for women age 14-18 when accompanied by an adult. Registration after May 10th until May 25th is $60.00. The registration fee includes a welcome gift, choice of 3 courses, continental breakfast, lunch, use of equipment and supplies, and a day pass to Big Oaks National Wildlife Refuge. |
| Nothing Stops This Train | 8 & 9 | Nothing Stops this Train, a play about the Underground Railroad and Eleutherian College by Terence Boyle. The play tells the fascinating story of John and Sarah Tibbets and a slave named Georgina who helps other slaves escape. Sarah Tibbets journeys into her own memories and recounts tales of slaves fleeing their masters across the Ohio River with the help of Georgina. Performances will be held at Eleutherian College on Saturday, June 8 at 7:30pm and Sunday, June 9 at 2pm. For more details please visit the website at www.eleutheriancollege.org or eleutheriancollege2012@hotmail.com |
| Music in the Park | 14 | Music in the Park is brought to you free by the Madison Main Street Program. (812) 265-3270 www.madisonmainstreet.com |
| Architectural Tour | 15 | Architectural Tours for the THIRD Saturday of each month- from June to Sept. 10am at the Broadway Fountain, courtesy of Historic Madison, Inc. donations accepted. |
| Lanier Days | 15-16 | Lanier Days: Celebrate the life and culture of early Victorian-era Madison, Indiana, with thundering cannons! Lanier Days at the Lanier Mansion State Historic Site features mock Civil War battles, Historic Trades Fair, children’s activities, interesting historical talks and music. 10am-4pm each day. Admission is $3 for adults and $1 per child. Lanier Mansion State Historic Site, 601 West First Street. For more info.812.273.0556. |
| Twilight Tasing Dinner | 15 | Four-course, fixed menu, meal with wines in the tasting room or on our covered deck. Limited seating so make your reservations early. Guaranteed Reservations Only. $35.00 per person + tax and gratuity. Madison Vineyards Estate Winery |
| Madison Archicamp | 26-27 | Campers ages 8 to 12 can travel back in time for hands-on fun learning about area landmarks, architecture, historic preservation and gardening in Madison, $30 per child, reservations required, 812-265-2967. |
| Fourth Friday Art Jam | 28 | Fourth Friday downtown celebration. Free "happening" on the sidewalks & in the shops downtown. Art, music, galleries, shops open late, refreshments. Madison Main Street - EVERY FOURTH FRIDAY www.madisonmainstreet.com |
| Cincinnati Brass Band | 29 | John Paul Park, picnic at 6pm, music at 7pm. |
| Last Sunday | 30 | Wine, Food and Live Music, the last Sunday of each month May through September. Light snacks and live music from 2 to 5 pm. Madison Vineyards Estate Winery |
July 2013
| Lanthier Summer Artist Showcase | 1-31 | A grand showcase of fine art & craft. 11am-5pm, Wed-Sun. 812-273-2409 Free admission. Lanthier Winery |
| Madison Regatta | 5,6,7 | 200MPH Hydroplane racing; limited class racing, vintage boats, air show, fireworks, musical entertainment, food. Admission Charged. 812-265-5000. Annual Event www.madisonregatta.com |
| Jefferson County 4-H Fair | 6-14 | @ Fairgrounds. 4-H events, grandstand, food booths, midway. 812-265-8919 |
| Bluegrass Music | 6 | Jefferson County 4-H Fairgrounds. 6 p.m. Admission free |
| Inn Cookout & Regatta Fireworks | 6 | Clifty Inn at Clifty Falls State Park 812-265-4135 |
| Music in the Park | 12 | 7-9pm at the Broadway Fountain in gorgeous historic downtown Madison. Bring your lawnchairs and join us at the fountain for FREE concert. Music in the Park is brought to you free by the Madison Main Street Program (812) 265-3270, www.madisonmainstreet.com |
| Scavenger Hunt Style Road Rally | 13 | Open to all legal street legal vehicles - 75 maximum. Registration begins at 9:00 am. Drivers meeting is 9:45 am. Rally begins at 10:00 am sharp. Course is approximately 25 miles and will take about 4 hours to complete. The rally begins and ends at the Clifty Picnic Shelter House in Clifty Falls State Park. For complete pricing & details: Scenic Road Rallies or call 812-623-5727 |
| John Hunt Morgan Raid Commerative Tour | 13 | 8:30am-4pm Travel the July 1863 route of Confedate General John Hunt Morgan and his Raiders. Reenactment by Vernon Greys. Call Historic Hoosier Hills for details, 812-689-4107 $40 includes transportation, materials, lunch. |
| Eleutherian College | 20 | 1:00 pm – 2:30 pm Free tour of Historic Eleutherian College 3:00 pm – 4:00 pm Free lecture by Deanda Johnson, Midwest Regional Coordinator of the National Park Service Underground Railroad Network to Freedom. Donations accepted at the door. For more details please visit the website at www.eleutheriancollege.org or eleutheriancollege2012@hotmail |
| Midsummer Celebration | 20 | Lanthier Winery. Complimentary wine samples join a gourmet bread and cheese buffet. Buffet noon-3pm No admission charged. Located at 123 Mill Street Call 1-800-41-WINES or 812-273-2409 or visit www.lanthierwinery.com for more information. |
| Architectural Tour | 20 | Architectural Tours for the THIRD Saturday of each month- from June to Sept. 10am, beginning at the Broadway Fountain, courtesy of Historic Madison, Inc. donations accepted. |
| Take a Kid Fishing Day | 20 | 7 AM. Big Oaks National Wildlife Refuge. 812-273-0783 for more information. |
| Twilight Tasing Dinner | 13 | Four-course, fixed menu, meal with wines in the tasting room or on our covered deck. Limited seating so make your reservations early. Guaranteed Reservations Only. $35.00 per person + tax and gratuity. Madison Vineyards Estate Winery |
| Slice of Savings | 25-27 | Downtown merchants summer sidewalk sale, “A Slice of Summer.” Lemon-shaped balloons and colorful banners will point you toward savings during this special event that runs 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Thursday and Friday, plus 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday. Please enjoy free lemonade along the way! |
| Fourth Friday Art Jam | 26 | Fourth Friday downtown celebration. Free "happening" on the sidewalks & in the shops downtown. Art, music, galleries, shops open late, refreshments. Trolley rides, 5-8 PM pm (most months). Madison Main Street - EVERY FOURTH FRIDAY www.madisonmainstreet.com |
| Bridge Party - Celebrate the Slide | 27 | Bicentennial Park. Events begin at 5pm with water slides, food booths featuring a variety of sliders, and other sliding events. Music at 6pm with Rusty Blade releasing his new Madison Bridge Slide song (which might inspire a Flash Mob). Special movie showing at dusk. A fun family day celebrating the sliding of the new Milton Madison Bridge. |
| Last Sunday | 28 | Wine, Food and Live Music, the last Sunday of each month May through September. Light snacks and live music from 2 to 5 pm. Madison Vineyards Estate Winery |
| Annual Butterfly Count | 29 | Big Oaks National Wildlife Refuge between 7:45 and 8:00 am. At least 40 species of butterflies have been spotted. Bring water, bug spray, sunscreen, snacks or lunch and binoculars. Butterfly field guides are recommended, but not required. Long pants are also recommended. www.fws.gov/midwest/bigoaks |
| Queen of the Mississippi & American Queen | 29 | 10pm to 1pm (No Public Tours) |
August 2013
| Lanthier Winery's Annual Summer Artist Showcase | 1-31 | Call 1-800-41-WINES or 812-273-2409 or visit www.lanthierwinery.com for more information. View this exhibit at The Loft Gallery, located at 123 Mill Street 11am to 5pm Wed- Sun. Free Admission. |
| Bluegrass Music | 3 | Jefferson County 4-H Fairgrounds. 6 p.m. Admission free |
| Annual Butterfly Count | 3 | Great Spangled Fritillaries, Spicebush Swallowtails, and Silver Spotted Skippers! These are just a few of the many species of butterfly you’re sure to encounter when you come to Big Oaks National Wildlife Refuge for the annual butterfly count. At least 40 species of butterflies have been spotted during the survey in each of the previous counts. Meet at the refuge office on Saturday morning August 4 between 7:45 and 8:00 am. Everyone must view the safety briefing and sign an acknowledgment of danger form, since Big Oaks is located on the closed Jefferson Proving Ground. A $3.00 donation to the North American Butterfly Association for those participating in the count would be appreciated. Survey teams will be divided up based on the length of time you wish to spend in the field. Some folks may choose to join us for the entire day; others may want to make it a half day. Bring water, bug spray, sunscreen, snacks or lunch and binoculars. Butterfly field guides are recommended, but not required. Long pants are also recommended. For directions to the refuge, please call or visit www.fws.gov/midwest/bigoaks. |
| Music in the Park | 9 | 7-9 pm at the Broadway Fountain in gorgeous historic downtown Madison. Sponsored by Madison Ribberfest. Bring your lawnchairs and join us at the fountain for FREE concert. Music in the Park is brought to you free by the Madison Main Street Program (812) 265-3270, www.madisonmainstreet.com |
| Twilight Tasing Dinner | 10 | Four-course, fixed menu, meal with wines in the tasting room or on our covered deck. Limited seating so make your reservations early. Guaranteed Reservations Only. $35.00 per person + tax and gratuity. Madison Vineyards Estate Winery |
| Eleutherian College | 10 | 1:00 pm – 2:30 pm Free
tour of Historic Eleutherian College 3:00 pm – 4:00 pm Free lecture by Dr. Jack Kaufman-McKivigan, Department of History, Indiana University-Purdue University Donations accepted at the door. For more details please visit the website at www.eleutheriancollege.org or eleutheriancollege2012@hotmail.com |
| Madison RibberFest | 16-17 | Two-day treat for the taste buds! Madison's Indiana State Barbecue Cook-off held along the Riverfront. Music, food, boatrides. Fun for the entire family. Admission charged. 800-559-2956 or 812-265-2956. Annual Event www.madisonribberfest.com |
| Architectural Tour | 17 | Architectural Tours for the THIRD Saturday of each month- from June to Sept. 10am, beginning at the Broadway Fountain, courtesy of Historic Madison, Inc. donations accepted. |
| Fourth Friday Art Jam | 23 | Fourth Friday downtown celebration. Free "happening" on the sidewalks & in the shops downtown. Art, music, galleries, shops open late, refreshments. Madison Main Street - EVERY FOURTH FRIDAY www.madisonmainstreet.com |
| Neavill's Grove "Old Settlers Meeting" | 24-26 | Antique farm machinery, arts, crafts, food, games, contests. Deputy Pike, Smyrna Township. 812-273-3807. Admission free. Annual Event |
| Last Sunday | 25 | Wine, Food and Live Music, the last Sunday of each month May through September. Light snacks and live music from 2 to 5 pm. Madison Vineyards Estate Winery |
| River Run 17 Car Show | 31 | Classic car show on Vaughn Drive. Gates open at 8am. Over 100 trophys and special honors, including a first time ever "Best of Show" ring will be awarded to car show entries. Food and beverages will be provided by local schools and United way groups. Along Madison's riverfront. Benefits Salvation Army. |
| Rockin' on the River | 31 | Following the car show. A riverfront musical festival staring "The Monarchs" of Louisville (weather providing). Entry is FREE to the walk-in public. Along Madison's riverfront |
September 2013
| Harvest Hoot | 1 | Madison Vineyards Estate Winery, 12N to 6pm. Hay wagon vineyard
tours, winery tours with the winemaker, grape stomp. Bring a picnic, blanket or lawn chairs and enjoy the day. Admission is FREE. No
carry-in alcohol is permitted. 888-473-6500 www.madisonvineyards.com |
| Lanthier Winery's Annual Autumn Artist Showcase | 1-30 | Call 1-800-41-WINES or 812-273-2409 or visit www.lanthierwinery.com for more information. View this exhibit at The Loft Gallery, located at 123 Mill Street 11am to 5pm Wed- Sun. Free Admission. |
| Bluegrass Music | 7 | Jefferson County 4-H Fairgrounds. 6:00 p.m. Admission free. |
| Chelsea Jubilee | 7 & 8 | Indiana's oldest community reunion. Music, food, fun. Saluda Township Paek, Hwy 62. 812-889-2726 |
| Canaan Fall Festival and Pony Express Mail Run Celebration | 13-14 | Pony express mail run w/special postmark, food, entertainment, frog contests, museum tours, flea market, Little Papoose Contest. Fri 9AM-10PM, Sat 8AM-10P. Contact Gale Ferris, 812-839-4770. Admission Free. Annual Event |
| LST 352 Visit | 13-16 | Madison riverfront. Details to follow. |
| Twilight Tasing Dinner | 14 | Four-course, fixed menu, meal with wines in the tasting room or on our covered deck. Limited seating so make your reservations early. Guaranteed Reservations Only. $35.00 per person + tax and gratuity. Madison Vineyards Estate Winery |
| Mixed-up Lectures | 19 | Explore the unrelated - Lanier Mansion. Topics - Birds of Prey: American Eagles and a Hairy Potter. Meet a real bald eagle, discover ancient & modern pottery making skills. 6:30-8pm. $3pp. |
| Black & White Party | 21 | One glittering night of good food, good friends, good music – all in Black and White! On the scenic south lawn, guests are encouraged to wear any type of black and white attire. Refreshments include substantial hors d’oeuvres, one complimentary drink, a cash bar and live music. Costumed black and white gala on the south lawn including music, art and refreshments. All proceeds benefit The Lanier Foundation |
| Architectural Tour | 21 | Architectural Tours for the THIRD Saturday of each month- from June to Sept. 10am, beginning at the Broadway Fountain, courtesy of Historic Madison, Inc. donations accepted. |
| Eleutherian College 2013 Fall Festival | 21 | A celebration of the history of Eleutherian College with music, speakers, food and fun. 10am-5pm For more details please visit the website at www.eleutheriancollege.org or email eleutheriancollege2012@hotmail.com |
| Hispanic Cultural Awareness Day & Celebration | TBD | Cultural appreciation of Hispanic countries w/food, dance, and artifacts from various Latin American Countries. Broadway Fountain, 4:30-9 pm. 273-4350. |
| Annual Friends of the Library Book Sale | 26-29 | Auditorium of the Library. Hours vary.812-265-2744. www.madison-jeffco.lib.in.us. |
| Fourth Friday Art Jam | 27 | Fourth Friday downtown celebration. Free "happening" on the sidewalks & in the shops downtown. Art, music, galleries, shops open late, refreshments. trolley rides. 5-8pm Madison Main Street - EVERY FOURTH FRIDAY www.madisonmainstreet.com |
| Fall Old Court Days | 27-29 | An antique and crafts outdoor market held around the Jefferson County Court House, Saturday Fish Fry. 9am to 6pm, Daily, Sponsored by the Madison Pilot Club, 812/273-6226. Admission Free. Annual Event |
| Music in the Park | 28 | 7-9 pm at the Broadway Fountain in gorgeous historic downtown Madison. Sponsored by Madison Chautauqua Festival of Art. Bring your lawnchairs and join us at the fountain for FREE concert. Music in the Park is brought to you free by the Madison Main Street Program (812) 265-3270, www.madisonmainstreet.com |
| Run the Falls 5K | 28 | King's Daughters' Hospital will host its annual RUN the FALLS 5K event at Clifty Falls State Park. The 5K event is for both runners and walkers. Our course winds through the roads of Clifty Falls State Park - no trail running. All ages are welcome. We offer a Kids' K event for children ages 8-under. Medals are awarded to the top three finishers in each age group for both runners and walkers. Proceeds benefit the KDH Girls on the Run program! Registration Form |
| 43nd Annual Madison Chautauqua | 28-29 | Premier outdoor juried fine arts & crafts event. Historic neighborhood between Broadway & Vine Streets and along Ohio Riverfront. Foodfest, Kid's Korner activity tent. 10-5 p.m. Sat & Sun. Free admission. 800-559-2956/812-265-2956. Sponsored by the VisitMadison, Inc.. Annual Event www.madisonchautauqua.com |
| Annual Harvest Celebration Festival | 28-29 | "Fall into Fun". A cornucopia of artists, crafters, festival food and wine engulf the gardens surrounding Lanthier Winery. Celebrate the harvest traditions amidst the brilliance of autumn. 123 Mill Street Location, vintage Madision, Indiana. Call 800-41-WINES for more information about this prestigious event. www.lanthierwinery.com |
| Lee Bottom Fly-In | 28 | Annual event. Lee Bottom Flying Field. Music, food, 812-866-3211. www.leebottom.com |
| Madison Merry Collector's 7th Annual Hallmark Ornament Collectible Sale | 28 | 10am-4pm Madison Senior Center, More info 812-273-2318 |
| Last Sunday | 29 | Wine, Food and Live Music, the last Sunday of each month May through September. Light snacks and live music from 2 to 5 pm. Madison Vineyards Estate Winery |
October 2013
| Lanthier Winery's Annual Autumn Artist Showcase | 1-30 | Call 1-800-41-WINES or 812-273-2409 or visit www.lanthierwinery.com for more information. View this exhibit at The Loft Gallery, located at 123 Mill Street 11am to 5pm Wed- Sun. Free Admission. |
| Bluegrass Music | 5 | Jefferson County 4-H Fairgrounds. 6:00 p.m. Admission free. |
| 5K Walk/Run | 5 | First annual 5K walk/run benefiting the Schroeder Saddletree Factory. Includes museum tour, hands-on demonstrations and fun activities for the family. $15 in advance, $20 after Sept 27, reservations required. |
| Hunter’s Moon Celebration | 12 | Lanthier Winery The big bulb drop and fall divide in the Lanthier Winery gardens. Fall gardening and craft workshops. 11am-1pm 812-273-2409 No admission charged |
| Soup, Stew, Chili & Brew | 12 | On Madison's Main Street. Individuals, businesses, and organizations compete to make Madison's best soup, stew or chili. 11am to 5pm. Tasting is by donation. Music onstage at Main & Mulberry. Call 812-265-3135. Sponsored by the Madison Area Chamber of Commerce. Free admission. Annual Event |
| Night Spirits | 18 | 7 – 9 p.m. Lanier Mansion State Historic Site. Beginning at 7 p.m. groups of 15 will depart from the Visitor Center at 15 minute intervals. During the tour, guest will encounter costumed actors with tales to tell. Reservations recommended. $10 pp. Appropriate for ages 14 and older. Contact Gerry Reilly at 812.273.0556. |
| Haunted Mystery Trolley Tour | TBD | $15pp, 7 & 8:30pm at the Gazebo at Vaughn Dr. Dress warmly. Treats & Tricks. Not recommended for children 10 and under. Call 812-701-4013 for reservations. |
| Spooky Mansion | 26 | 6– 8 p.m. $3 per child (1 free adult per child) Contact Gerry Reilly at 812.273.0556 with questions. Kids will enjoy trick-or-treating, ghosts and stories, creepy crafts, and walking through the spine-tingling basement. |
| Fourth Friday Art Jam | 25 | Fourth Friday downtown celebration. Free "happening" on the sidewalks & in the shops downtown. Art, music, galleries, shops open late, refreshments. 5-8pm Madison Main Street - www.madisonmainstreet.com |
| Annual Halloween Party | 26 | Thomas Family Winery, 208 E Second St, 800-948-8466, 812-273-3755, 8pm – 11pm, costumes required www.thomasfamilywinery.us |
| Red, White & Boo | 31 | Hosted by the City of Madison, 812-265-8308 |
November 2013
| Indiana Wine Trail Fall Haul | 2-3 | Annual Event. Tour all six Southeast Indiana Wineries, food and wine pairings. www.indianawinetrail.com |
| Bluegrass Music | 2 | Jefferson County 4-H Fairgrounds. 6 p.m. Admission free |
| Christmas in Madison Open House | 15-16 | Historic Downtown Madison Merchants present their Christmas Open House. The shops will have lots of goodies and surprises for you; Open until 8PM. Be sure to register for the $500 shopping spree courtesy of the Madison Courier. |
| Twilight Tasing Dinner | 21 | Four-course, fixed menu, meal with wines in the tasting room or on our covered deck. Limited seating so make your reservations early. Guaranteed Reservations Only. $35.00 per person + tax and gratuity. Madison Vineyards Estate Winery |
| Fourth Friday Art Jam | 22 | Fourth Friday downtown celebration. Free "happening" on the sidewalks & in the shops downtown. Art, music, galleries, shops open late, refreshments. 5-8pm Madison Main Street - www.madisonmainstreet.com |
| Nights Before Christmas Candlelight Tour of Homes | 29, 30 & Dec. 6, 7 | Celebrate the Christmas season while touring public sites and historic private homes. Adult tickets $15, children $5. Fridays 5-9pm and Saturdays 3-9pm. Sponsored by the Visit Madison, 800/559-2956 or 812/265-2956. Annual Event www.nightsbeforechristmas.com |
| Nights Great Cookie Caper | 29, 30 & Dec 6, 7 | Purchase homemade cookies and treats. All proceeds benefit local charity. Fridays 4-8pm, Saturdays 2-8pm, Visitor Center |
| Light Up Madison | 29 | Join Santa and the Mayor on Broadway to watch the City illuminate with lights at 6pm. |
| Host of Angels | 23-Dec 31 | View one of the Midwest's largest private collections of angels. Kick off the holiday season with a splendid gathering of traditional holiday angels, celestial creatures and cherubs at 123 Mill Street- No admission 11am-5pm Wed-Sun. Families are welcome; children must be accompanied by adult. www.lanthierwinery.com |
| Annual Festival of Trees | 23-Dec 31 | More than 105 magnificent trees - no two are alike. Families welcome; children must be accompanied by adult. Enjoy samples of our award winning handcrafted wines including limited release holiday wines. Lanthier Winery,123 Mill Street 11am to 5pm Wed- Sun. (extended hours premier weekend and first weekend in December. 800-41 WINES. |
December 2013
| A Very Merry MadisonChristmas Parade | 7 | Downtown Madison, 10am. Begins at Jefferson, ends at.Mill Street. |
| Host of Angels | 1-31 | angels, celestial creatures and cherubs at 123 Mill Street- No admission. 11am-5pm Wed-Sun. Families are welcome; children must be accompanied by adult. www.lanthierwinery.com |
| Annual Festival of Trees | 1-31 | More than 105 magnificent trees - no two are alike. Families welcome; children must be accompanied by adult. Enjoy samples of our award winning handcrafted wines including limited release holiday wines. Lanthier Winery, 123 Mill Street 11am to 5pm Wed- Sun. (extended hours premier weekend and first weekend in December. 800-41 WINES. |
| Nights Great Cookie Caper | 6, 7 | Purchase homemade cookies and treats. All proceeds benefit local charity. Fridays 5-8pm, Saturdays 3-9pm, Visitor Center |
| Nights Before Christmas Candlelight Tour of Homes | 6, 7 | Celebrate the Christmas season while touring public sites and historic private homes. Adult tickets $15, children $5. Fridays 5-9pm and Saturdays 3pm-9pm. Sponsored by the VisitMadison, Inc., 800/559-2956 or 812/265-2956. Annual Event www.nightsbeforechristmas.com |
| A Very Merry MadisonChristmas Parade | 7 | Downtown Madison, 10am. Begins at Jefferson, ends at.Mill Street. |
| Bluegrass Music | 7 | Jefferson County 4-H Fairgrounds. 6:00 p.m. Admission free. |
| Handel’s Messiah | 8 | Madison Ohio Valley Choir and the Hanover College Choir, 2pm, Hanover College, 812-866-7200. $7. Tickets are available at The Madison Courier, 310 West St. and at the door, at the Fitzgibbon Recital Hall in Hanover College’s Fine Arts Building. |
| Sugarplum Celebration | TBD | “Taste the spirit of Christmas” complimentary samples of fudge, cookies, candies, & sugarplums 11am-3pm 812-273-2409 www.lanthierwinery.com |
| Spirit of Christmas Past | 14 | Holiday program for children at Lanier Mansion includes Victorian Santa, Stories, Craft, and Refreshments, 2pm-4pm, $3 per child, 812-273-0556 |
| Christmas Bird Count | 14 | The Big Oaks National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) needs volunteer birders and nature enthusiasts in Indiana to participate in Audubon’s longest-running wintertime tradition, the annual Christmas Bird Count (CBC). Volunteer birders of all skill levels are needed to count birds. Jefferson County has two different counts for area volunteers to enjoy: Big Oaks NWR and Hanover-Madison counts; each count covers a separate part of the county and is held on a different date. Volunteers may sign up to count birds for a half day (until noon, or noon to sunset) or all day. Meet at 8:00 am at the Big Oaks NWR office. Contact the refuge at 812-273-0783. |
If you have an Event or Festival that is not listed here, or if you see a date that is incorrect, contact us.
