With summer rapidly approaching - all those end-of-the-year mid day school events were one clue - there's a lot to be excited for in Madison. While places like the Terrace, Zoo, Gardens, Farmer's Market(s), and other classic Madison experiences make all the list of top spots for good reasons, here are a few of my favorite, though slightly less common ideas to get on your summer calendar:
- Fools Flotilla (June 11). The Marquette Waterfront festival overall is a great way to start summer with the kids Dandelion Dash (June 10) and other activities along the lake, but the Sunday am Flotilla is a totally unique kind of parade - plus you can participate!
- Go boating - get food. My kids are a little young to do much paddling, but having a goal is a great to get them going. The "ice cream boat float" to make a sundae as we went along, or "burgers on the bay" were our personal favorites.
- Get to a farm. Schuster's Farm is our family's favorite with the huge variety of animals, play areas and games, Eugster's also has special lavender and sunflower days along with animals, and Sassy Cow Creamery offers tours and great ice cream.
- Dane Dances (Fridays in August). Great views from the Monona Terrace rooftop, great energy from the most diverse crowd you'll fine in Madison, great music and a family dance before each performance, and a great food options for picky to adventurous eaters.
- Need a low-key, flexible option? Try the splash pads with playgrounds. Don't worry about open hours, nap times, or memberships and check out the splash pads in Verona (also next to a beach and bike trail), Fitchburg, Cottage Grove, west Madison, and Middleton -- are all free and right next to big playgrounds for when someone gets cold.
Want to see more Madison family fun in summer - and all seasons? Subscribe to MacaroniKID Madison's free newsletter and add your event(s) to our calendar!
