St. Dennis Fest Madison: A Festive Celebration of Music and Culture
Dates: August 19-21, 2023
Mark your calendars for St. Dennis Fest Madison, a vibrant three-day festival that showcases the best of music, food, and culture. Hosted annually in the vibrant neighborhood of Tenney-Lapham, this beloved event draws thousands of attendees from across the region.
A Legacy of Entertainment and Community
St. Dennis Fest has been a cherished tradition in Madison for over 50 years. The festival was founded in 1967 as a way to celebrate the parish community of St. Dennis Catholic Church. Over time, it has evolved into a beloved citywide event that welcomes people of all faiths and backgrounds.
An Eclectic Lineup of Musical Talent
Music is at the heart of St. Dennis Fest. The festival features a diverse lineup of live bands and performers, catering to a wide range of musical tastes. From classic rock to indie folk, blues to jazz, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Past performers have included:
- The BoDeans
- The Elms
- The WhiskeyBelles
- The Harpoonist & The Axe Murderer
Indulge in Culinary Delights
St. Dennis Fest is also renowned for its delectable food options. Local restaurants and food vendors offer a tantalizing array of dishes, from mouthwatering barbecue to gourmet grilled cheese. Whether you’re craving a savory snack or a hearty meal, you’ll find something to satisfy your taste buds.
A Fun-Filled Family Affair
In addition to music and food, St. Dennis Fest offers a host of activities for all ages. The festival features:
- Carnival games and rides
- A petting zoo
- A farmers’ market
- A silent auction
- A parish picnic
With so much to see and do, St. Dennis Fest is the perfect destination for families looking for a fun-filled day out.
A Catalyst for Community Involvement
St. Dennis Fest is more than just a three-day event. It’s a catalyst for community involvement and support. The festival is organized by an army of volunteers who donate their time and energy to make sure the event runs smoothly. Proceeds from the festival benefit local charities and organizations, making a positive impact on the community.
Visitor Information
Dates: August 19-21, 2023
Location: Tenney-Lapham Neighborhood, Madison, Wisconsin
Admission: Free
Parking: Ample free parking is available in the surrounding neighborhood.
Accessibility: The festival is wheelchair accessible.
Plan Your Visit
To get the most out of your St. Dennis Fest experience, consider the following tips:
- Arrive early to secure a parking spot and avoid lines.
- Bring a blanket or lawn chairs for seating.
- Stay hydrated by bringing your own water bottle or purchasing drinks from the festival vendors.
- Take advantage of the free shuttle service that operates between the festival grounds and various locations in the city.
Testimonials
“St. Dennis Fest is a Madison summer tradition that I look forward to every year. The music is amazing, the food is delicious, and the atmosphere is just electric.” – Local resident
“I love bringing my family to St. Dennis Fest. There’s something for everyone to enjoy, and it’s a great way to support our community.” – Festival attendee
“As a volunteer, I’m proud to be a part of St. Dennis Fest. It’s a special event that brings people together and makes a positive impact on Madison.” – Volunteer
St. Dennis Fest by the Numbers
- Over 20,000 attendees annually
- More than 50 live bands and performers
- 25 food vendors
- 100 volunteers
- $100,000 donated to local charities
Related Events
- Rhythm & Booms Fireworks: Madison’s Fourth of July celebration features a spectacular fireworks display over Lake Monona.
- Dane County Farmers’ Market: A sprawling market with over 200 vendors offering fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and more.
- Madison Blues Festival: A three-day celebration of blues music with performances by local, regional, and national artists.
Additional Tips
- Check the festival website for the latest schedule of events and lineup of performers.
- Follow St. Dennis Fest on social media for updates and announcements.
- Consider volunteering for the festival to get a behind-the-scenes look at this extraordinary event.
St. Dennis Fest Madison is a vibrant celebration of music, food, and community that has become a beloved tradition in Wisconsin’s capital city. Whether you’re a music enthusiast, a foodie, or simply looking for a fun-filled family event, St. Dennis Fest is not to be missed. Mark your calendars for August 19-21, 2023, and experience the magic of this cherished festival for yourself.
Table 1: Musical Lineup 2023
Band/Performer | Day | Time |
---|---|---|
The BoDeans | Friday | 8:00 PM |
The Elms | Saturday | 6:00 PM |
The WhiskeyBelles | Sunday | 4:00 PM |
The Harpoonist & The Axe Murderer | Saturday | 8:00 PM |
Table 2: Food Vendors
Vendor | Cuisine |
---|---|
Backyard BBQ | Barbecue |
El Burrito Loco | Mexican |
Grilled Cheese Society | Gourmet Grilled Cheese |
Happy Dragon Express | Chinese |
La Hacienda | Mexican |
The Crepe Shack | Crepes |
Table 3: Activities for Families
Activity | Location |
---|---|
Carnival Games | North Field |
Rides | South Field |
Petting Zoo | East Lawn |
Farmers’ Market | West Lawn |
Table 4: Charitable Contributions
Charity | Amount |
---|---|
Second Harvest Foodbank of Southern Wisconsin | $20,000 |
Habitat for Humanity of Dane County | $15,000 |
Boys & Girls Club of Dane County | $10,000 |
St. Vincent de Paul Society | $5,000 |
Salvation Army | $5,000 |