Happy December, Madison. ❄️ If you’re anything like us, you’re ecstatic about the holiday season, hearty winter food, and the new year on the horizon — and with all that excitement, you’re also looking for fun local events to attend. Read on for all the top events happening this month in the City of Four Lakes.

December 1-December 5

Wednesday, Dec. 1

Spotlight Cinema: Identifying Features | Wed., Dec. 1 | 7 p.m. | Madison Museum of Contemporary Art | Free+ | An acclaimed Mexican film to accompany the “Caja de visiones” exhibit. 🎬
Willy Porter | Wed., Dec. 1 | 8 p.m. | Majestic Madison | $20+ | Music from the contemporary American rock musician from Mequon, WI. 🎶
Plumbing Seminar - City of Madison 2021 | Wed., Dec. 1 | 5-8:30 p.m. | 2121 E. Springs Dr. | $60 | A 3-hour continuing education course for plumber certification.
Housing Equity Community Breakfast | Wed., Dec. 1 | 8-9:30 a.m. | First United Methodist Church | Free | Volunteer to serve breakfast + coffee to community members experiencing homelessness.
Wisconsin Winter Birds | Wed., Dec. 1 | 6:30 p.m. | Wine & Design, 167 S. Fair Oaks Ave. | $38 | Sip + paint in a guided class on a winter painting. 🎨
Riveting Rivets | Wed., Dec. 1 | 6 p.m. | Memorial Union | $80 | Learn to make connections in jewelry with rivets with Wheelhouse Studios.
Paint ur Cat’s Head | Wed., Dec. 1 | 7-8:30 p.m. | Old Sugar Distillery, 931 E. Main St. | $35 | Bring a picture of a cat to paint into an 8-inch wooden wall hanging. 🐱
Hark the Holiday Happy Hour | Wed., Dec. 1 | 5-8 p.m. | The Tinsmith, 828 E. Main St. | TBD | A holiday soiree at a new event space on the isthmus. 🍸

Thursday, Dec. 2

Crafter Con 2021 | Thurs., Dec. 2-Sun., Dec. 5 | Times vary | Monona Terrace | $15+ | A game design conversion with seminars and workshops from industry experts.
Chelsea Handler | Thurs., Dec. 2 | 7 p.m. | Orpheum Theater | $49.50+ | A comedy show with television host, bestselling author + advocate.
The Nielsen Trust ft. Rick Nielsen | Thurs., Dec. 2 | 7-9 p.m. | Majestic Theatre | $20+ | A evening of songs + stories from the hyper-music Nielsen family. 🎶
San Holo | Thurs., Dec. 2 | 8 p.m. | The Sylvee | $25 | Music from the Dutch musician and producer. 🎸
Winter Fantasia | Thurs., Dec. 2-Sun., Dec. 5 | Times vary | Overture Center | $35+ | Join the Kanopy Dance Company for winter stories brought to life through dance.
All is Calm: The Christmas Truce of 1914 | Thurs., Dec. 2-Sun., Dec. 12 | Overture Center | $20+ | Four Seasons Theatre presents a remarkable story from the Western Front of World War I. 🎭
Holly’s Skates | Thurs., Dec. 2 | 6:30 p.m. | Wine & Design, 167 S. Fair Oaks Ave. | Sip + paint in a guided class on a winter painting. 🎨
2021 Spa-liday Soirée | Thurs., Dec. 2-Fri., Dec. 3 | Times vary | The Edgewater Madison | $120 | Enjoy two mini-spa treatments, prizes, champagne + more.
Tasting of Fantastic Red Blends | Thurs., Dec. 2 | 6-8 p.m. | WineStyle Tasting Station, 2824 Prairie Lakes Dr., Sun Prairie | $15 | Taste red wines + learn why certain blends taste different than others. 🍷
Dane Arts Holiday Pop Up | Thurs., Dec. 2 | 4:30-7:30 p.m. | StartingBlock Madison, 821 E. Washington Ave. | Free | Get your holiday shopping done early with local artists + entrepreneurs.
Day With(out) Art 2021: ENDURING CARE | Thurs., Dec. 2 | 5 p.m. | Virtual | Free | Join the Chazen for a screening + conversation on AIDS.

Friday, Dec. 3

Yoga Core | Tues., Nov. 2 | 12-12:45 p.m. | Monona Terrace | Free | All yogis are welcome at this practice designed to build strength + body awareness.
Christmas with John Berry: The Silver Anniversary Tour | Fri., Dec. 3 | 8 p.m. | Barrymore Theatre | $45+ | Grammy-award-winning country star on his Christmas tour. 🎄
Lindsey Stirling | Fri., Dec. 3 | 8 p.m. | The Sylvee | $59.50+ | A Christmas program from the dancer, artist + violinist. 🎶
A Madison Symphony Christmas | Fri., Dec. 3-Sun., Dec. 5 | Times vary | Overture Center | $20+ | The beloved Madison tradition kicks off the season with Christmas favorites. 🎻
Toast Ceramics Pop-Up | Fri., Dec. 3-Sat., Dec. 4 | Times vary | Good Day Shop, 1925 Monroe St. | Free entry | Meet Jackie Matelski of Toast Ceramics during a pop-up shop.
Artists’ reception for The Last Glacier collective & Matthew Warren Lee | Fri., Dec. 3 | 6 p.m. | Overture Center | Free | Join the artists for a reception celebrating the exhibit on display until Jan. 23, 2022.
Light the Night | Fri., Dec. 3 | 6:30-8 p.m. | Main St., Waunakee | Free | Watch the light parade and Santa, enjoy downtown shopping + more. ✨
First Friday | Fri., Dec. 3 | 4-7 p.m. | Monroe St. | Free entry | Enjoy extending shopping hours + a movie night at Chocolate Shoppe Ice Cream.
Wisconsin vs. Minnesota | Fri., Dec. 3 | 7 p.m. | La Bahn Arena | $5+ | Watch the women’s hockey team take on Minnesota. 🏒
Date Night: An Evening in Thailand | Fri., Dec. 3 | 7 p.m. | Sur la table | $79 | Explore the 5 major flavors of Thai cuisine.
Festive Fridays at Wollersheim | Fri., Dec. 3 | 12-8 p.m. | Wollersheim Winery & Distillery | Free entry | Enjoy a bite for lunch or supper + sign up for seated wine tastings. 🍷
Capitols vs. Team USA | Fri., Dec. 3 | 6:35 p.m. | Bob Suter Capitol Ice, 2616 N. Pleasant View Rd., Middleton | $11+ | An ice hockey game to start off December.

Saturday, Dec. 4

The Crafty Fair | Sat., Dec. 4-Sun., Dec. 5 | Times vary | The Goodman Center, 214 Waubesa St. | Free entry | 100+ handmade local vendors with crafts + creations for all to shop.
Madison’s 25th Annual Fair Trade Holiday Festival | Sat., Dec. 4 | 8 a.m.-3 p.m. | Monona Terrace | Free entry | Find unique, socially responsible, handmade gifts from 40+ vendors. 🛍
HolidayFest Arts & Crafts Fair | Sat., Dec. 4 | 9 a.m.-3 p.m. | Warner Park Community Recreation Center, 1625 Northport Dr. | $1+ | Over 80+ midwestern crafters selling handmade goods.
Holiday Craft Fair | Sat., Dec. 4 | 10 a.m.-2 p.m. | The Malt House, 2609 E. Washington Ave. | Free entry | Holiday gifts like blown glass, jewelry, candles, and more from local artisans. 🖼
Charlie Berens: The Midwest Survival Guide Tour | Sat., Dec. 4 | 8 p.m. | Orpheum Theater | $35+ | The creator of “Maniotwo Minute” + Emmy-winning journalist for a night of comedy.
Pawliday Photos with Petphoria | Sat., Dec. 4 | 10 a.m.-4 p.m. | Petphoria, Hilldale Shopping Center | Free+ | Receive free professional pet photos with any purchase in Petphoria. 🐶
MisterWives | Sat., Dec. 4 | 8 p.m. | Majestic Theatre | $32.50+ | Sounds from the indie-pop band.
Badger Soles | Sat., Dec. 4 | 1 p.m. | Alliant Energy Center | $15+ | A venue to buy, sell, and trade sneakers, clothing + more. 👟
Holiday Tree Lighting | Sat., Dec. 4 | 6:30 p.m. | New Glarus Depot, 418 Railroad St. | Free | Kick off the holiday season with shops, old-fashioned street lights + a tree lighting. 🎄
Build and Take: Bûche De Noël | Sat., Dec. 4 | 9 a.m. | Sur la table | $79 | Learn to make the intricate holiday dessert from scratch.
Wisconsin vs. Minnesota | Sat., Dec. 4 | 3 p.m. | La Bahn Arena | $5+ | Watch the women’s hockey team take on Minnesota. 🏒
Elvehjem Holiday in the Park 2021 | Sat., Dec. 4 | 4 p.m. | Elvehjem Park, 1202 Painted Post Dr. | Free entry | Horse and carriage rides, a bonfire, hot chocolate, carol + a visit from Santa.
Santa’s Helpers Craft and Vendor Market | Sat., Dec. 4 | 10 a.m.-3 p.m. | Bowl-A-Yard Lanes, 2121 E. Springs Dr. | Free entry | Support local small businesses + Toys for Tots this holiday season.
Felicia's Donation Closet Scavenger Hunt Fundraiser & Live Auction | Sat., Dec. 4 | 2-9 p.m. | Red & White Winebar, 331 E. Main St., Waunakee | $35+ | A scavenger hunt around town with several local businesses.
MOM Holiday Art Fair | Sat., Dec. 4-Sun., Dec. 5 | Times vary | 2551 Paramenter St., Middleton | Join Middle Outreach + local artists for a holiday shopping event to support a cause. 🖼
Winter Work Party at Gibraltar Rock State Natural Area | Sat., Dec. 4 | 1-4 p.m. | Gibraltar Rock Rd., West Point | Free | Enjoy stunning views from the top of Gibraltar Rock as you help clear invasive brush on this volunteer workday. 🏔
Free Community Carol Sing | Sat., Dec. 4 | 11 a.m. | Overture Center | Free | Join the Madison Symphony Orchestra to raise a joyful noise in the holiday spirit.
Capitols vs. Team USA | Sat., Dec. 4 | 7:05 p.m. | Bob Suter Capitol Ice, 2616 N. Pleasant View Rd., Middleton | $11+ | An ice hockey game to start off December. 🏒
Outdoor Christmas Market | Sat., Dec. 4 -Sun., Dec. 5 | Times vary | Blessed Sacrament, 2116 Hollister Ave. | Free entry | A local artisan market, Christmas tree lot, book fair + plenty of holiday treats. 🎁

Sunday, Dec. 5

Run, Santa, Run 5K | Sun., Dec. 5 | 3:10-6:10 p.m. | Capitol Square | $45+ | A beautiful winter wonderland tour of downtown Madison with 3 holiday stations including cookies, mistletoe, and candy canes with hot chocolate at the finish. 🎅
Jason Isbell and The 400 Unit | Sun., Dec. 5 | 8 p.m. | The Sylvee | $59.50+ | Grammy-award-winning artists known for American roots music.
Anderson East | Sun., Dec. 5 | 8 p.m. | Majestic Theatre | $28+ | Music from the Nashville-based singer-songwriter. 🎶
Date Night: Lobster Ravioli Feast | Sun., Dec. 5 | 9 a.m. | Sur la table | $89 | Learn to make the savory entree from scratch.
Sunday Afternoon Live at the Chazen | Sun., Dec. 5 | 12:30 p.m. | Chazen Museum of Art | Free | A performance by the UW Horn Choir in the Chazen Museum of Art Mead Witter Lobby. 🖼

December 6-12

Monday, Dec. 6

Stenciled Enamel Pendants | Mon., Dec. 6 | 6 p.m. | Memorial Union | $50 | Use high temperatures to fuse enamel powder on metal to create a glass enameled pendant.
Holiday Entertaining: Hor D’oeuvres | Mon., Dec. 6 | 7 p.m. | Sur la table | $79 | Impress your guests with zucchini fritters + mini Beef Wellingtons.
Paint & Sip: Blacklight Britney | Mon., Dec. 6 | 6:30-8:30 p.m. | Wine & Design, 167 S. Fair Oaks Ave. | $38 | A wine-infused painting instructional celebrating a true 2000’s icon. 🎨
Pundamonium | Mon., Dec. 6 | 7 p.m. | High Noon Saloon | $7 | An epic 10-way pun slam judged by five lucky audience members.
Ashman All Ages Chess Club | Mon., Dec. 6 | 4-6 p.m. | Alicia Ashman Library, 733 N. High Point Rd. | Free | Stress-free intro to chess before playing a friendly game with an opponent. ♟
Writing Explorers | Mon., Dec. 6 | 12:30-3:30 p.m. | Olbrich Botanical Gardens | $30 | Out of this world creative writing workshop for grades 4-8. ✍️
Adult Knitting Club | Tues., Dec. 7 | 1-4 p.m. | Sequoya Library, 4340 Tokay Blvd. | Free | Bring your own supplies to this easy-going, all-skill-level workshop. 🧶
Tuesday Group Run | Tues., Dec. 7 | 5:45-6:45 p.m. | Movin’ Shoes, 528 S. Park St. | Free | An after-work group run with different paces for all runners.
Holiday Container Workshop | Tues., Dec. 7 | 4-5 p.m. | The Bruce Company, 2830 Parmenter St., Middleton | $45 | Seasonal crafting workshop for designing holiday-themed containers.

Tuesday, Dec. 7

Yoga Core | Tues., Dec. 7 | 12-12:45 p.m. | Monona Terrace | Free | All yogis are welcome at this practice designed to build strength + body awareness.
Emily Wolfe | Tues., Dec. 7 | 8 p.m. | High Noon Saloon | $15+ | Music from the Austin-based American rock and roll musician. 🎶
Icons in Business featuring Dane County Regional Airport | Tues., Dec. 7 | 8-9:30 a.m. | The Madison Concourse Hotel, 1 W. Dayton St. | $35+ | Insight into the Dane County Airport’s impact on the local economy + $85 million expansion. ✈️
Macro and Closeup Photography | Tues., Dec. 7 | 6-7:30 p.m. | The Camera Company, 6742 Odana Rd. | $50 | Learn the tools, techniques, and challenges of close-up photography. 📸
Wisconsin LGBT Chamber of Commerce | Tues., Dec. 7 | 4:30-6:30 p.m. | Café Hollander, 701 Hilldale Wy. | $15 | Toast the holidays and new year with the Wisconsin LGBT Chamber at the 2021 Holiday Soiree.
Merry Pints Dinner | Tues., Dec. 7 | 5:30-8 p.m. | Oakleaf Restaurant, 4740 Pierceville Rd., Cottage Grove | $35+ | Pints + political discussion with Wisconsin state representatives. 🍺
Tuesday Tasting | Tues., Dec. 7 | 4-8 p.m. | Liliana's Restaurant, 2951 Triverton Pike Dr., Fitchburg | $TBD | Three-course tasting menu with the featured ingredient: pumpkin.
Bicycle Through Winter | Tues., Dec. 7 | 12-1:30 p.m. | University Bicycle Resource Center, 600 N. Park St. | Free | Best practices for cycling through a Wisconsin Winter. 🚲
Knitting Social Craft Club | Tues., Dec. 7 | 4:30-6 p.m. | Fiddlesticks Knits, 1976 Atwood Ave. | Free | A social crafting group for all types of creators looking to mingle. 🧶

Wednesday, Dec. 8

Wisconsin vs. Indiana | Wed., Dec. 8 | 6 p.m. | Kohl Center | TBD | Watch the men’s basketball team in the Big Ten home opener against Indiana. 🏒
Handel’s Messiah | Wed., Dec. 8 | 7 p.m. | First Congregational United Church of Christ, 1609 University Ave. | $35 | The Wisconsin Chamber Orchestra’s performance of the family holiday tradition.
Jason Mraz with Toca Rivera | Wed., Dec. 8 | 8 p.m. | Orpheum Theater | $40.50+ | Music from the two-time Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter. 🎼
Snail Mail | Wed., Dec. 8 | 8 p.m. | Majestic Theater | $25+ | A concert with American indie rock guitarist and singer-songwriter.
Wiki x Navy Blue | Wed., Dec. 8 | 8 p.m. | High Noon Saloon | $15 | A collaboration between rapper + producer on an off-kilter hip-hop album. 🎵
Ecopoetry — Following W.S. Merwin | Wed., Dec. 8 | 10:30 a.m. | Arboretum Visitor Center, 1207 Seminole Hwy. | $30 | A conversation exploring ecology, eastern spirituality, and poetic technique.
Winter Ravioli Workshop | Wed., Dec. 8 | 7 p.m. | Sur la table | $79 | Make 2 types of savory ravioli + a fresh salad. 🍝
Clean Lakes 101: A New Vision Through UW Student Design | Wed., Dec. 8 | 8-9:15 a.m. | Virtual | Free+ | Hear from two UW-Madison Engineering students to present their senior Capstone projects on lake-friendly improvements.

Thursday, Dec. 9

Mystery Science Theater 3000 LIVE | Thurs., Dec. 9 | 7:30 p.m. | Overture Center | $35+ | An exhilarating rollercoaster right through the film Making Contact.
Seventh Generation Earth Ethics | Thurs., Dec. 9 | 7 p.m. | Virtual | Free | Join author Patty Loew to discuss how Indigenous groups shape earth ethics + sustainability.
Arlo McKinley | Thurs., Dec. 9 | 8 p.m. | High Noon Saloon | $15+ | Music from the country singer and songwriter. 🎶
Blown Glass Ornaments | Thurs., Dec. 9 | 6 p.m. | Memorial Union | $80 | Create blown glass ornaments using a torch and starter cylinders.
Gift-Worthy Wines | Thurs., Dec. 9 | 6-8 p.m. | Wine Styles Tasting Station, 2824 Prairie Lakes Dr., Sun Prairie | $25 | Samples wines to decide on the perfect holiday gift. 🍷
State of the Museum | Thurs., Dec. 9 | 6:30 p.m. | Chazen Museum of Art | Free | A year in review and the future of the Chazen.
Wisconsin vs. Michigan | Thurs., Dec. 9 | 8 p.m. | Kohl Center | $3+ | Watch the women’s basketball team take on the Wolverines. 🏀
Mad Laughs | Thurs., Dec. 9 | 8-9:30 p.m. | Red Rock Saloon, 222 W. Gorham St. | $10 | Stand-up comedy with the best of the Midwest.*

Friday, Dec. 10

Silhouette Artist Chris Casey at Happily Ever After | Fri., Dec. 10 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m. | 708 S. Whitney Way | $10+ | Watch 2nd generation, master silhouette artist hand-cut an heirloom-quality silhouette portrait in just 2-5 minutes.
Sleigh Bells & Santa | Fri., Dec. 10 | 6 p.m. | Hickory Hill Academy, 3276 S. High Point Rd. | TBD | A visit with Santa, Mrs. Claus + his live reindeer. 🎄
Yoga Core | Fri., Dec. 10 | 12-12:45 p.m. | Monona Terrace | Free | All yogis are welcome at this practice designed to build strength + body awareness.
Festive Fridays at Wollersheim | Fri., Dec. 10 | 12-8 p.m. | Wollersheim Winery & Distillery | Free entry | Enjoy a bite for lunch or supper + sign up for seated wine tastings. 🍷
New Glarus Christkindli Market | Fri., Dec. 10-Sun., Dec. 12 | Times vary | Downtown New Glarus | Free entry | An outdoor Christmas market with mini chalets offering local gifts. 🎁
Wine and Canvas - Watercolor Winter Landscape | Fri., Dec. 10 | 6-8:30 p.m. | Memorial Union | $50 | Sip wine + paint your own masterpiece.
Wisconsin vs. Penn State | Fri., Dec. 10 | 7 p.m. | Kohl Center | $20+ | Watch the men’s hockey team take on Penn State. 🏒
Brahmulus | Fri., Dec. 10 | 8 p.m. | High Noon Saloon | $10+ | Lo-fi music for your heart and lungs.
The 10th and Final Mad Men Holiday Soiree | Fri., Dec. 10 | 8 p.m. | Majestic Theater | $25 | A night of vintage magic with cocktails, a photo booth, red carpet + more.
Capitols vs. Green Bay | Fri., Dec. 10 | 7:05 p.m. | Bob Suter Capitol Ice, 2616 N. Pleasant View Rd., Middleton | $11+ | An ice hockey game against a local rival. 🏒
Candy Cane Hunt | Fri., Dec. 10 | 6-7 p.m. | Lakeview Community Park, 6300 Mendota Ave., Middleton | Free | Hunt for candy canes, play games + enjoy hot chocolate.

Saturday, Dec. 11

Wisconsin vs. Penn State | Sat., Dec. 11 | 6 p.m. | Kohl Center | $20+ | Watch the men’s hockey team take on Penn State. 🏒
Eastside Winter Market | Sat., Dec. 11-Sun., Dec. 12 | Times vary | Garver Feed Mill | Free entry | A community-focused market featuring local makers + shops with music in the evening.
Gil Shahman | Sat., Dec. 11 | 7:30 p.m. | Wisconsin Union Theater | $15+ | Enjoy the power, vitality, and rhapsody of violinist Gil Shaham on his Stradivarius instrument. 🎻
An Evening with David Sedaris | Sat., Dec. 11 | 7:30-10 p.m. | Overture Center | $45.50+ | A reading + book signing with the author.
Starset | Sat., Dec. 11 | 7:30 p.m. | The Sylvee | $29.50+ | Music from the cinematic rock band. 🎶
A Christmas Carol | Sat., Dec. 11-Thurs., Dec. 23 | Times vary | Overture Center | $35+ | The Children’s Theater of Madison presents the classic holiday play. 🎄
Them Coulee Boys x Fireside Collective | Sat., Dec. 11 | 8 p.m. | Majestic Theatre | $15+ | The Wisconsin-founded folk rock band for a night of intimate music.
Lespecial | Sat., Dec. 11 | 8 p.m. | High Noon Saloon | $18+ | Music from the “heavy future groove” in modern music. 🎼
Mastering Your DSLR or Mirrorless Camera | Sat., Dec. 11 | 9 a.m.-4 p.m. | The Camera Company, 333 S. Madison St., Waunakee | $159 | If you’re still shooting in auto or want better manual results, learn more about your camera. 📸
Swiss Church Cookie Sale | Sat., Dec. 11 | 8 a.m.-1 p.m. | Swiss United Church of Christ, 18 5th Ave., New Glarus | Free entry | The annual holiday cookie sale, featuring traditional Swiss varieties. 🍪
Reception + Artist Talk for “Santiago Cucullu: you still make me tremble” | Sat., Dec. 11 | 6-8 p.m. Madison Museum of Contemporary Art | Free | An exhibition celebration, reception + artist talk for the news exhibit.
Holiday Hoopla | Sat. Dec. 11 | 10 a.m.-6 p.m. | Monona Terrace | Free entry | Join the Madison Vintage Pop Up Collective for a vendor market featuring knickknacks, vintage goods, snapbacks + more. 🎁
Santa’s Workshop | Sat., Dec.11-Sun., Dec. 12 | Times vary | Greenway Station| Free | Join Madison Mom to meet Santa, make crafts + get your gifts wrapped. 🎅
Dachsland Krampuslauf | Sat., Dec. 11 | 5 p.m. | State St. | Free | Watch winter folklore characters “run” up State Street.
Poinsettias in Paradise | Sat., Dec. 11 | 8 p.m. | Lucille’s, 101 King St. | $5+ | Raise funds for The Rainbow Project + enjoy tiki-inspired cocktails.

Sunday, Dec. 12

Sunday Cinematheque at the Chazen: Journeys From Berlin/1971 | Sun., Dec. 12 | 2-4 p.m. | Chazen Museum of Art | Free | A film that evokes the daily experiences of power and repression. 🎥
Madison Vegan Pop Up | Sun., Dec. 12 | 10 a.m. | Goodman Community Center, 214 Waubesa St. | Free entry | Last minute gifts from vegan vendors.
Houndsmouth | Sun., Dec. 12 | 8 p.m. | Majestic Theater | $27.50+ | Music from the American alternative blues band. 🎼
Madison Music Foundry | Sun., Dec. 12 | 11 a.m. | High Noon Saloon | Free+ | A student performance from the Student Jam, Rock Workshop, and Foundry Performance Shop program.
Drag Brunch | Sun., Dec. 12 | 12 p.m. | Vintage Brewing Co., Capitol East | $35 | A drag show + full brunch buffet.
Wisconsin vs. Green Bay | Sun., Dec. 12 | 2 p.m. | Kohl Center | $3+ | The women’s basketball team takes on Green Bay on Sunday Kid’s Day. 🏒

December 13-19

Monday, Dec. 13

Monday Group Run | Mon., Dec. 13 | 5:45-6:45 p.m. | Movin’ Shoes, 528 S. Park St. | Free | An after-work group run for 3-5 miles. 👟
Starry Night Holiday Town | Mon., Dec. 13 | 6:30 p.m. | Wine & Design, 167 S. Fair Oaks Ave. | $38 | Sip + paint a holiday scene and add on snacks to your evening.

Tuesday, Dec. 14

Yoga Core | Tues., Dec. 14 | 12-12:45 p.m. | Monona Terrace | Free | All yogis are welcome at this practice designed to build strength + body awareness.
Understanding Exposure | Tues., Dec. 14 | 5:30-7:30 p.m. | The Camera Company, 6742 Odana Rd. | $50 | A solid understanding of ISO, shutter speed + aperture to get accurate exposure. 📸
Trivia at the Wisconsin Brewing Company | Tues., Dec. 14 | 6:30-8:30 p.m. | Wisconsin Brewing Company, 1079 American Way, Verona | $1 | Put on your thinking caps for trivia on the patio, with the winner taking home a $30 WBC gift card. 🍻

Wednesday, Dec. 15

JD McPherson | Wed., Dec. 15 | 8 p.m. | Majestic Theater | $25+ | A singer-songwriter known for a retro sound rooted in rock and roll. 🎶
GBB Turns TWO Anniversary Party | Wed., Dec. 15 | 5 p.m. | Garth’s Brew Bar | Free entry | A special anniversary beer on tap, a food truck + more.
Holiday Cocktail Class | Wed., Dec. 15 | 5 p.m. | Garver Feed Mill, 3241 Garver Green | $160 | Learn seasonal cocktails from the Garver bartenders. 🍸
Color Designs by Local Artists | Wed., Dec. 15 | 7-8 p.m. | State Line Distillery, 1413 Northern Ct. | $5+ | Grab a drink + relieve stress with local artist coloring sheets.

Thursday, Dec. 16

Madison Night Market | Thurs., Dec. 16 | 4-9 p.m. | State St. + Gilman St. | Free entry | Celebrate Madison’s unique creative culture with live music, artists + visiting food carts at the last one of the year. 🌙
A Very Funkee Joey B. Christmas | Thurs., Dec. 16 | 7 p.m. | $12+ | High Noon Saloon | Music to get in the holiday spirit. 🎼
Paint your Pet: In Studio | Thurs., Dec. 16 | 6:30-9 p.m. | Wine & Design, 167 S. Fair Oaks Ave. | $60 | Send in a picture of your pet ahead of time + paint them the day of.
Morgan James: A Very Magnetic Christmas Tour | Thurs., Dec. 16 | 8 p.m. | The Bur Oak, 2262 Winnebago St. | $15+ | Authentic soul music from the vocalist.
Ugly Sweater Lights Run | Thurs., Dec. 16 | 6 p.m. | Fleet Feet Madison & Sun Prairie, 8440 Old Sauk Rd., Middleton | Free | Wear your ugliest sweater + brightest lights to run to one of Madison’s best holiday lights displays. 👟
High Tech Happy Hour | Thurs., Dec. 16 | 5-7 p.m. | Bob Suter’s Capitol Ice Arean, 2616 Pleasant View Rd. | Free | A networking event followed by the game against Green Bay.
Capitols vs. Green Bay | Thurs., Dec. 16 | 7:05 p.m. | Bob Suter Capitol Ice, 2616 N. Pleasant View Rd., Middleton | $11+ | An ice hockey game against a local rival. 🏒
Wisconsin vs. Illinois State | Thurs., Dec. 16 | 6:30 p.m. | Kohl Center | $3+ | The women’s basketball team takes on Illinois State on $3 Thursday. 🏀
Holiday Brew n’ View: Elf at the Majestic Theatre | Thurs., Dec. 16 | 7:30 p.m. | Majestic Theatre | $5 | Watch Elf the movie + enjoy themed drinks.

Friday, Dec. 17

Jingle and Mingle | Fri., Dec. 17 | 5-9 p.m. | The Tinsmith, 828 E. Main St. | Free entry | Drop in or music, and DIY ornament station, drinks + bring a winter clothing item for MOM’s Community Clothing Center.
DSO Presents Ellington’s Nutcracker Featuring: Leroy Jones | Fri., Dec. 17 | 7:30 p.m. | Garver Feed Mill | $15+ | The return of the DOS’s annual Holiday Concert.
OUTLAW NIGHT: A Tribute to Willie, Waylon, Johnny and the Hanks | Fri., Dec. 17 | 7:30 p.m. | High Noon Saloon | $10+ | Wisconsin's own Greg Hall and the Wrecking Ball pays homage to the pioneers of Outlaw Country. 🎼
7th Annual Hippy Xmas Party | Fri., Dec. 17 | 8 p.m. | The Bur Oak, 2262 Winnebago St. | $10+ | PHUN performs a set of Pink Floyd for its yearly holiday party.
The Nutcracker | Fri., Dec. 17-Sun., Dec. 26 | Times vary | Overture Center | $11+ | The Madison Ballet’s annual production of the holiday classic. 🩰
Steely Dane “Holidane” Show | Fri., Dec. 17 | 7:30 p.m. | Majestic Theater | $14+ | Winner of the MAMA award for best cover band and Madison Magazine’s Best Cover Band.
Yoga Core | Fri., Dec. 17 | 12-12:45 p.m. | Monona Terrace | Free | All yogis are welcome at this practice designed to build strength + body awareness.
Snowflake Macaron Workshop | Fri., Dec. 17 | 9 a.m. | Sur la table | $79 | Learn the steps for making crisp shells + creamy fillings.
Festive Fridays at Wollersheim | Fri., Dec. 17 | 12-8 p.m. | Wollersheim Winery & Distillery | Free entry | Enjoy a bite for lunch or supper + sign up for seated wine tastings. 🍷
2021 Winter Market Sip n’ Stroll | Fri., Dec. 17 | 5-9 p.m. | Fitchburg Farms, LLC, 1829 County Rd. MM | Free entry | An evening of 100+ vendors with handmade goods.

Saturday, Dec. 18

The MINI Crafty Fair | Sat., Dec. 18 | 10 a.m. | 149 Waubesa St. | Free entry | Take care of last-minute gifts with 25 vendors + their handmade goods. 🎁
Madison Holiday Market Extravaganza | Sat., Dec. 18 | 10 a.m.-7 p.m. | East Towne Mall | Free entry | Join the Wisconsin Shoppers Market for a day of shopping with 30+ local vendors and pictures with Santa.
Holiday Market | Sat., Dec. 18 | 7:30 a.m.-12 p.m. | Monona Terrace | Free entry | Visit Dane County Farmers’ Market’s one-stop shop for local holiday food. 🛍️
Black Girl Magic Saturday | Sat., Dec. 18 | 12-3 p.m. | Goodman Community Center, 214 Waubesa St. | An holiday craft-making event for Black girls in 4th-9th grade in the Madison area.
Holiday Cookie Decorating | Sat., Dec. 18 | 1 p.m. | Sur la table | $79 | Master techniques for turning royal icing + sugar cookies into edible art. 🍪
Photos w/ Santa | Sat., Dec. 18 | 10 a.m.-2 p.m. | Madison Children’s Museum | TBD |
Welcoming Winter | Sat., Dec. 18 | 3-5 p.m. | Garner Park, 333 S. Rosa Rd. | $5 | Celebrate the beginning of winter with storytime + a solstice spiral walk. ❄️
Modern Indulgence | Sat., Dec. 18 | 6-9 p.m. | DelecTable, 3248 University Ave. | $64+ | A luxurious + traditional French meal with local ingredients from a gifted chef.
Christmas Bird Count at Forest Hill Cemetery | Sat., Dec. 18 | 5:30-9:30 a.m. | Forest Hill Cemetery | Free | Join the Feminist Bird Club of Wisconsin to help take a “bird” census to contribute to a citizen science project. 🐦
A Creole Christmas with the New Orleans Tribute Featuring Leroy Jones | Sat., Dec. 18 | Times vary | The North Street Cabaret, 610 North St. | Music from New Orleans-raised trumpeter.
Dance Wisconsin Presents: The Nutcracker | Sat., Dec. 18-Sun., Dec. 19 | Memorial Union | A local performance featuring dancers, a live orchestra + magical vocals. 🩰
Capitols vs. Dubuque | Sat., Dec. 18 | 7:05 p.m. | Bob Suter Capitol Ice, 2616 N. Pleasant View Rd., Middleton | $11+ | An ice hockey game against a local rival.
Holiday Maker Market | Sat., Dec. 18 | 12-4 p.m. | Kismet Books, 1010 N. Main St., Verona | Local makers, a visit from Old St. Nick + festive music.
Winter Solstice Party | Sat., Dec. 18 | 12-9 p.m. | Wisconsin Brewing Company, 1079 American Way, Verona | Free entry | A celebration of the darkest day of the year with 3 dark brews, fire pits, winter activities + more.

Sunday, Dec. 19

The NYChillharmonic | Sun., Dec. 19 | 8 p.m. | The Bur Oak, 2262 Winnebago St. | $15+ | A female-fronted, Brooklyn-based, 18 piece, progressive-rock orchestra. 🎼
Festive Bread Workshop | Sun., Dec. 19 | 10 a.m. | Sur la table | $79 | Learn to make a pull-apart wreath, babka + monkey bread. 🥖
Madison Urban Sketches | Sun., Dec. 19 | 1 p.m. | Chazen Museum of Art | Free | New + current sketchers come together to draw.
Cookie Decorating | Sun., Dec. 19 | 4-6 p.m. | The Grumpy Troll, 105 S. 2nd St., Mt. Horeb | Free entry | Decorate cookies for Santa in the Taproom.

December 20-26

Monday, Dec. 20

Second Harvest Volunteer Day | Mon., Dec. 20 | 8:30 a.m. | 2802 Dairy Dr. | Join Badger NAMA in helping sort + pack care boxes.
Fleet Feet 5K - Sun Prairie with Brooks | Mon., Dec. 20 | 6-7 p.m. | Fleet Feet Sun Prairie, 2828 Prairie Lakes Dr. | Free | A 5K for beginning runners + a Brooks Running shoe demo. 👟
Drink n’ Draw with Tom | Mon., Dec. 20 | 5 p.m. | SuperCharge! Juice Bar and Urban Farm | $20 | Drink healthy juice + draw free-flowing art for all skill levels.
GatherX Create: Parol Making (Festive Paper Lanterns) | Mon., Dec. 20 | 7 p.m. | Christ Presbyterian Church | $10 | Take part in the Filipino tradition of making parols + learn something new.

Tuesday, Dec. 21

Antler Ornaments | Tues., Dec. 21 | 6:30-8:30 p.m. | Wine & Design, 167 S. Fair Oaks Ave. | $38 | Sip + paint a festival design in this instructor-led class.
Book Release Party: Madison Chefs by Lindsay Christians | Tues., Dec. 21 | 7 p.m. | Leopold’s Books Bar Caffe, 1301 Regent St. | Free entry | A book release by The Capital Times writer on Madison food + history. 📚
Board Games and Beer: Happy Holidays Edition | Tues., Dec. 21 | 5:30-9 p.m. | Garver Feed Mill | Free entry | Join game night with a feature game designer and featured game — Carcassonne.
Industry Night | Tues., Dec. 21 | 5 p.m. | Hotel Indigo, 901 E. Washington Ave. | Free entry | Industry workes are welcome for happy hour specials + socializing with industry folks.

Wednesday, Dec. 22

50’s Christmas Cocktail Party | Wed., Dec. 22 | 7 p.m. | The Bur Oak, 2262 Winnebago St. | $10 | Celebrate the holidays with a 50’s style party featuring drink specials + pink aluminum Christmas trees.

Thursday, Dec. 23

Wisconsin vs. Morgan State | Thurs., Dec. 23 | 6 p.m. | Kohl Center | TBD | Watch the men’s basketball team take on the Morgan State Bears. 🏀
An Unexpected Adventure | Thurs., Dec. 23 | 6:30-8:30 p.m. | Wine & Design, 167 S. Fair Oaks Ave. | $38 | A step-by-step class led by a local artist.
Lynda & The Zeros | Thurs., Dec. 23 | 7:30 p.m. | High Noon Saloon | $10+ | Music from the new-mo-funk style band. 🎶
Wisconsin vs. Eastern Illinois | Thurs., Dec. 23 | 12 p.m. | Kohl Center | $3+ | The women’s basketball team takes on Eastern Illinois on $3 Thursday. 🏀
A Very Merry Christmas: Stand Up Comedy at The Rigby | Thurs., Dec. 23 | 7:30-9 p.m. | The Rigby Pub, 119 E. Main St. | $10+ | Join Madison Indie Comedy for a star-studded line up of comedy + dinner. 🎭
Festivus Flight Night | Thurs., Dec. 23 | 4-10 p.m. | The Malt House, 2609 E. Washington Ave. | Free entry | Airing of Grievances and Feats of Strength with imperial stouts from Une Annee.
Disney Music Karaoke Contest | Thurs., Dec. 23 | 8 p.m. | The East Side Club, 3735 Monona Dr. | Free entry | Show off your karaoke skills with a Disney song.

Friday, Dec. 24

Christmas Eve at the Melting Pot | Fri., Dec. 24 | 2-9 p.m. | The Melting Pot, 6816 Odana Rd. | $63.95+ | A special prix fixe holiday menu of salads, meats + fondue.
Christmas Eve Potluck | Fri., Dec. 24 | 12-5 p.m. | The Malt House, 2609 E. Washington Ave. | Free entry | Bring a dish to pass + toast to the holiday. 🥘
Hawaii Bowl Watch Party | Fri., Dec. 24 | 3 p.m. | Bierock, 2911 N. Sherman Ave. | Watch the big game with Hawaiian themed drinks.

Saturday, Dec. 25

Sunday, Dec. 26

Winter Garden Strolls | Sun., Dec. 26 | 1-2 p.m. | UW-Madison Arboretum Visitors Center | Free | A gently paced stroll for a multi-generational outing. 🌳

December 27-December 31

Monday, Dec. 27

2021 Madison College Holiday Softball Camp | Mon., Dec. 27-Tues., Dec. 28 | Times vary | H. Douglas Redsten Gymnasium, 1701 Wright St. | $50+ | Learn hitting and pitching techniques from a talented staff of coaches.

Tuesday, Dec. 28

Trivia at the Wisconsin Brewing Company | Tues., Dec. 28 | 6:30-8:30 p.m. | Wisconsin Brewing Company, 1079 American Way, Verona | $1 | Put on your thinking caps for trivia on the patio, with the winner taking home a $30 WBC gift card. 🍻
Trivia Night | Tues., Dec. 28 | 6-8 p.m. | Garth’s Brew Bar, 1726 Monroe St. | Free entry | Test your trivia knowledge + enjoy craft beer.
Board Games and Beer: Happy Holidays Edition | Tues., Dec. 28 | 5:30-9 p.m. | Garver Feed Mill | Free entry | Join game night with a feature game designer and featured game — Carcassonne.

Wednesday, Dec. 29

Wisconsin vs. Illinois State | Wed., Dec. 29 | TBD | Kohl Center | TBD | Watch the men’s basketball team take on Illinois State. 🏀
Nate Craig | Wed., Dec. 29 | 8 p.m. | Majestic Theater | $16+ | A comedian, actor from “Manic” + writer of “Ridiculousness.” 🎶
DIY - Acrylic Pour | Wed., Dec. 29 | 6:30-7:30 p.m. | Wine & Design, 167 S. Fair Oaks Ave. | $38 | Learn the acrylic pour technique on canvas.

Thursday, Dec. 30

Service Industry New Year’s Eve | Thurs., Dec. 30 | 8:30 p.m. | Majestic Theater | $10 | A party for those in the service industry featuring Rod Tuffcurls and the Bench Press.
Wisconsin vs. Purdue | Thurs., Dec. 30 | 8 p.m. | Kohl Center | $3+ | The women’s basketball team takes a Big Ten rival. 🏀
Las Vegas Bowl Watch Party | Thurs., Dec. 30 | 9 p.m. | Bierock, 2911 N. Sherman Ave. | Watch the Badgers play Arizone State with tailgate food.

Friday, Dec. 31

A New Year’s Eve Celebration with The People Brothers Band | Fri., Dec. 31 | 8:30 p.m. | Majestic Theater | $25+ | A night of music from a local band.
NYE 2021 at The Wisco | Fri., Dec. 31 | 8:30 p.m. | The Wisco, 852 Williamson St. | $5 | A stellar lineup of covers + drinks to ring in the new year. 🎉
All-Inclusive New Year’s Eve Party | Fri., Dec. 31 | 6 p.m. | Essen Haus, 514 E. Wilson St. | $90+ | Bottomless steins, Haus wine, buffets, a midnight champagne toast + more to celebrate 2021. 🍾
Rod Tuffcurls & The Bench Press | Fri., Dec. 31 | 8 p.m. | The Sylvee | $25+ | A cover band hailing from Chicago. 🎼
New Years Even Family Event | Fri., Dec. 31 | 2-8 p.m. | Keva Sports Center, 8312 Forsythis St., Middleton | $10+ | A party for all ages featuring music, dance, and magic shows, a photo booth, bounce houses + more.
New Year’s Eve 2022 | Fri., Dec. 31 | Times vary | The Madison Concourse Hotel | Prices vary | Celebrate the new year with a surf n’ turf dinner, live comedy + 3 parties. 🎊
New Year’s Eve Candlelight Meditation for World Peace | Fri., Dec. 31 | 7 p.m. | 1825 S. Park St. | $10 | An evening of compassion and wisdom.
Ring in the New Year | Fri., Dec. 31 | 2-9 p.m. | The Melting Pot, 6818 Odana Rd. | $74.95+ | A special NYE menu with 3 types of fondue.
New Year’s Eve Night Walk | Fri., Dec. 31 | 6:30-8 p.m. | UW-Madison Arboretum Visitor Center, 2880 Longenecker Dr. | Free | A naturalist-led trail walk — make sure to wear layers. 🌳
New Year’s Even GLAM PARTY | Fri., Dec. 31 | 7 p.m. | Flavors Wine Bar, 100 E. Main St., Sun Prairie | $28+ | Bring back a historic tradition + wear your best for a NYE celebration
New Year’s Rockin’ Eve 2000’s Throwback | Fri., Dec. 31 | 9 p.m. | High Noon Saloon | $10 | Catch some of your favorite local bands cover some of your favorite ‘00s music.
1920's French New Year's Eve Dinner | Fri., Dec. 31 | 6 p.m. | DelecTable, 3248 University Ave. | $169+ | A celebratory feast with cocktails, hor oeuvres + a nine-course dinner.
New Years Eve Party | Fri., Dec. 31 | Times vary | Settle Down Tavern and Oz by Oz, 117 Pinckney St. | $90+ | A party featuring a three-course dinner, drinks + a 9 p.m. toast.
The 2021 New Year’s Eve Lucille Ball | Fri., Dec. 31 | 9 p.m. | Lucille, 101 King St. | $90+ | An open Bar with craft cocktails, a photo booth, hors d’oeuvres, live bands + a DJ to ring in the new year.