The Madison Blues Society promotes events and educational programs geared towards expanding an awareness and appreciation for American blues. Each summer the society holds a Blues Picnic in Madison's Warner Park. The free event features local and regional blues artists. The East Madison Community Center sells a variety of food at the event; all who attend are asked to leave their picnic baskets at home and support the center. The event includes raffles and sales of Blues Society merchandise.
At the University of Wisconsin, a collection of student committees plans a variety of cultural events such as concerts, exhibits and lectures that take place at the university's Memorial Union located on the edge of Lake Mendota. On the first weekend in August, the music committee highlights the blues with its annual Bluesfest on the Terrace, a two-day event that showcases local blues artists. Free and open to the public, the event kicks off on Friday night. The music picks back up on Saturday afternoon and runs through the evening. Brats, pizza and ice cream are available throughout the event from several vendors on the Terrace.
Wisconsin hosts many major blues festivals throughout the summer in different parts of the state. The Waukesha BluesFest, held at Naga-Waukee Park in Delafield, is less than an hour's drive from Madison. The two-day festival features both regional performers and national acts such as Booker T. and The MG's, Patrick Sweany and The Holmes Brothers. All performances for the rain-or-shine event are held under a tent, but those who attend may bring blankets and lawn chairs if they prefer to sit on the surrounding lawn. The BluesFest also holds an art exhibit featuring juried work by local artists.
Sun Prairie, a small city about 10 miles north of Madison, holds the Sun Prairie Blues Festival in Angell Park every year around Labor Day. Sponsored by the Sun Prairie Lions Club, the all-day event features local performers. Angell Park has picnic tables but those who attend the event can also bring lawn chairs and blankets. The Lions Club lines up local restaurants to sell food, beverages and beer; carry-in picnics are not allowed. Parking is free and admission is affordable.
Madison's annual Memorial Day Bratfest claims to be the largest of its kind in the world. The four-day event, held on Willow Island at the Alliant Energy Center, features bike races, kids' contests, fireworks and continual performances by local musicians, many of whom play the blues. Admission to Bratfest is free, but there is a charge for food, beverages and participation in some events. Proceeds are donated to charities in the Madison area.