CONCERTS ON THE SQUARE
Event schedule
WEDNESDAY EVENINGS JULY AND AUGUST
Summer in Madison means Concerts on the Square. On six Wednesday evenings each July and August the Wisconsin Chamber Orchestra performs a free concert on the Capitol grounds, right outside our door. Music lovers and summer revelers of all ages lay their blankets down to be part of Madison's biggest picnic.
Madison Insider Tips
- The show starts at 7 but people can begin putting their blankets down to reserve spots as early as 3. That means those staying at a Capitol Square hotel have a distinct advantage!
- Officially the rule is no talking during the music but there are definitely those who are there for the orchestral arrangements and those who are there to socialize with a glass of wine. A general guide is to sit closer to the orchestra if you're particularly interested in the concert. Those who are there for the scene tend to sit further back.
- A note about the music - don't worry if you're not a symphony buff, each show has a theme and incorporates some familiar favorites in addition to classical pieces. Past concerts have featured John Williams' movie scores,The Beatles and patriotic songs such as The 1812 Overture.
- You can just enjoy the music and the evening breeze if you'd like but for many, Concerts on the Square is the chance to use that picnic basket you received as a wedding gift. Fruits and cheese and wine are standard fare. Downtown restaurants feature picnic specials and there are official food stands so visitors have plenty of options as well.
