About
Make Music Madison is a free, citywide day of music every June 21. We are part of Make Music Day, a celebration that occurs in 1,000+ cities across the globe. Madison began participating in 2013 and now boasts one of the largest events in the country. Parks, porches, restaurants, shops, worship spaces and more fill with music for all to enjoy!
What?
- Performed by Anyone, Enjoyed by Everyone.
- Celebrating the summer solstice.
- Buffet of musical merriment.
- DIY city-wide festival.
When?
Annually on June 21.
Where?
Over 100 locations throughout the City of Madison.
Who?
Open to music makers of all ages, genres, & skill levels, and hosts of all types of sites.
Make Music Madison, Inc. is administrated by
- Meri Rose Ekberg, Managing Director
- Jamie Kember, Board President
- Ashley Massart, Board Secretary
- Nikeya Bramlett, Board Treasurer
- Emily Goretski, Board Member
- Fran Genter, Board Member
- Mason Higgins, Board Member
- David Moser, Board Member
+ Volunteers. Learn how to join our crew!
Participate
Registration Dates
- Registration Opens: April 1 at 8:00 AM
- Registration Closes: June 1 at 11:59 PM
- Venue Material Pick Up: Stay tuned for the 2026 date!
Tutorial Videos
Who Can Participate?
Musicians
All ages, skill levels, and genres. You can play one show or as many as you’d like.
Venues
Hosting can be a simple space on your porch or as complex as a stage and sound equipment. Hosts control the location, times, and available equipment. Sites must be:
- In the City of Madison
- Free and accessible to the public
- Able to maintain space on the sidewalk for pedestrians
What is Matchmaking?
Matchmaking connects venues and musicians. After creating an account, venues and musicians can browse each other’s profiles to request a booking. If you already have your event planned and do not need matchmaking, list your event by following this video.
Tools & Resources
Once you have a show confirmed, explore Participant Resources.
Questions?
See Frequently Asked Questions for help with matchmaking, registration, marketing, and more!
Support
Make Music Madison thrives on community support!
Help us bring the experience of free live music to every corner of our community, and provide performance opportunities for all musicians. Make Music Madison is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization; all contributions are 100% tax-deductible.
Or send a check to:
Make Music Madison
PO Box 5186
Madison, WI 53705
Sponsorship Opportunities
Our partners benefit from extensive exposure through print, radio and digital advertising. When the Solstice rolls around, we are everywhere.
2025 Stadium Level Sponsors
Make Music Madison is supported in part by grants from the Madison Arts Commission & Wisconsin Arts Board with funds from the State of Wisconsin and the National Endowment for the Arts.
2025 Theater Level Sponsors
2025 Club Level Sponsors
2025 Café Level Sponsors
2025 Media Partners
