BRAVA Magazine

Grow and Gather: Spring Foraging
2026-05-09 09:30 - 12:30 (America/Chicago) | Frank Lloyd Wright Visitor Center, 5607 County Rd, Spring Green8, WI, 53588, United States
Come explore the Welsh Hills Trail at Taliesin and learn how to forage with our Kitchen Gardener, Abbie Lehman. Class will begin with a discussion of foraging basics at the base of the trail. Then, we will embark on a two-mile loop through the Welsh Hills to put our new knowledge to the test, identifying common Spring wild edibles along the way! By the end of this course, you will learn why you should forage, where you can forage, how to forage safely and responsibly, as well as key identification techniques and common plant families.

World Migratory Bird Day
2026-05-09 08:00 - 12:00 (America/Chicago) | San Damiano, 4123 Monona Drive, Monona, WI, 53716, United States
Join us for a morning of reverence for the avian community!
World Migratory Bird Day is a celebration of birds and their incredible migration routes that transport them across continents. In the Western hemisphere, the World Migratory Bird Day is celebrated in Canada and the United States on the 2nd Sunday of May and in Mexico, South and Central America, and the Caribbean on the 2nd Sunday of October.
This year’s theme: ‘Every bird counts. Your observations matter.’
Join us for birdwatching hikes, family-friendly activities, and informative discussions at San Damiano Park.
World Migratory Bird Day Logo
Schedule of Activities:
8am: Birdwatching hikes led by Mary Murrell and Jeff Galligan
9am to Noon: Family-friendly activities presented by Aldo Leopold Nature Center and the Monona Public Library. Local authors Alina Loux and Samantha Cora Christian Haas will be onsite to read excerpts from their published children’s books.
10am: Birds as the Sentinels of Climate Change, presentation in the Frank Allis House by UW Researcher Ryan Buron
11am: Birds in the ‘Burbs: Challenges and Opportunities, presentation in the Frank Allis House by UW Researcher Ryan Buron
Spend the morning on the shores of Lake Monona at San Damiano Park, celebrating the amazing migratory routes of birds and revel in the interconnectedness of our world.
Limited parking onsite. Please carpool, bus, bike, or walk when possible.

YWCA Madison's Inaugural Solidarity Sunset Soirée
2026-05-08 17:30 - 21:30 (America/Chicago) | Madison Marriott West, 1313 John Q Hammons Drive, Middleton, WI, 53562, United States
On Friday, May 8th, at the Madison Marriott West, YWCA Madison invites you to our first-ever Solidarity Sunset Soirée. This new signature event honors the transformative leadership of women, illuminates the impact of YWCA Madison, and brings together the shared power and love that sustains this community. Rooted in the beloved traditions of Circle and Women of Distinction, this milestone year invites us into something expansive: a living reflection of where we have been and a collective vision of what we are becoming.
Throughout the evening, we will move together through moments of connection and celebration, including shared conversation, heartfelt tributes, vibrant art, a seated dinner, and joyful dancing. We will also celebrate 50 years of Women of Distinction, a sisterhood of radiant women across generations whose leadership has shaped our local justice movements, while uplifting the impact of YWCA Madison’s work and nurturing a spirit of solidarity that continues to grow within our community. Registration is live at ywcamadison.org. Doors open at 5:30 pm. We can’t wait to see you there!

Blooms for Mom: A Mother's Day Giveback
2026-05-08 10:00 - 2026-05-09 17:00 (America/Chicago) | Poppy – Home & Gift, 1821 Parmenter Street, Middleton, WI, 53562, United States
Come and celebrate the joy of Mother’s Day with us! Join us in-store May 8 and 9 for a fun, feel-good event filled with flowers, creativity, and a little extra love for our community!
With any $50 purchase, you can create your own beautiful DIY bouquet! We’ll have a mix of lush greens, delicate buds, and fresh blooms so you can design something truly special.
Even better, your visit gives back: we’re partnering with DAIS and donating 10% of sales during the event to support their incredible work helping other moms in our community.
Bring a friend (or mom!), treat yourself, and celebrate the amazing moms and mother figures in your life.
We can’t wait to see what you create!

Jack O The Dust at MBC Taproom in Madison!
2026-05-07 18:00 - 20:00 (America/Chicago) | Madison Taproom, Minoqua Brewing Company, 2927 E Washington Ave, Madison, WI, 53704, United States
You won’t wanna miss this one! Jack o’the Dust is a post-modern Americana duo from Madison, WI. Andrew Doiel plays guitar, Amy McNally plays fiddle, and they both sing.

Creative Portfolio Bootcamp
2026-05-07 17:30 - 19:30 (America/Chicago) | Arts + Literature Laboratory, 111 S Livingston St, Suite 100, Madison, WI, 53703, United States
Have you recently completed a body of work that you’re excited to share with the world? Trying to sell your artwork online or pivot in a new direction? Do you have so many pieces of work that you’re not sure where to start?
Work with artist and designer Ben Orozco and other Madison creative professionals on assembling, updating, and/or refining your portfolio in this hands-on, weekly bootcamp, back for a third year! Each participant will set a personal goal for their portfolio to pursue over six weeks. Each week, Orozco will walk through a different process of building the creative portfolio and publicly presenting yourself and your work. The second half of class will be used for answering questions, worktime, and one-on-one time supporting each participant.
Please bring a laptop. Access to the Adobe Creative suite is encouraged, but not mandatory.
Week 1 (May 7th): Reflecting on your body of work, setting goals, and curating your work
Week 2 (May 14th): Organizing documentation, image editing, and photo quality
Week 3 (May 21st): Showing your work online and IRL
Week 4 (May 28th): Writing bios, artist statements, and work descriptions
Week 5 (June 4th): Assembling and refining your portfolio
Week 6 (June11th): Presenting your portfolio and group feedback
By working together, we will commit to growing our professional practice, sharing feedback, helping each other, and keeping ourselves accountable.
For scholarship opportunities, please email Adult Education Director Emily Popp at emily@artlitlab.org. We are currently seeking funding to support full and partial scholarships, and will be sharing more information soon.

Role of Exercise after Diagnosis (PUBLIC)
2026-05-07 17:30 - 19:00 (America/Chicago) | Gilda’s Club Wisconsin, 7907 UW Health Ct, Middleton, WI, 53562, United States
The intervention with best data for improving side effects related to cancer and cancer therapy and maybe even improve outcomes is exercise. The talk will identify which side effects are improved with exercise and what types of exercise are most useful. We will also explore how exercise might help improve cancer outcomes. Finally we will talk about practical ways to get started.

Drag Bingo Fundraiser | Mental Health Awareness Month Event
2026-05-06 18:00 - 20:30 (America/Chicago) | The Bur Oak, 2262 Winnebago Street, Madison, WI, 53704, United States
Get out for a fun, high-energy night of bingo, entertainment, and great prizes—all in support of Journey Mental Health Center.
As part of Mental Health Awareness Month, this event brings the community together for a night that’s both fun and meaningful.
Hosted by Kendra Banx$, this 21+ event includes 8 rounds of bingo, light snacks, and a drink ticket, with additional beverages available for purchase. Doors open at 6:00 PM, with bingo running from 7:00–8:30 PM.
Every ticket sold helps Journey provide therapy, crisis support, school-based services, and more to people across Dane County.
Tickets + details: https://rebrand.ly/bingo-brava

Cancer Support Services through Gilda’s Club Wisconsin [Virtual]
2026-05-06 12:00 - 12:30 (America/Chicago) | Gilda’s Club Wisconsin, 7907 UW Health Ct, Middleton, WI, 53562, United States
Have you or someone you loved been given a cancer diagnosis? Are you looking for a space to connect with others who understand?
Join Gilda’s Club for a group New Member Meeting delivered on Zoom.
This meeting will discuss the resources we have to offer and get you started as a Gilda’s Club member.
*If you do not wish to meet in a group setting, please email program@gildasclubmadison.org to schedule an individual New Member Meeting.
Questions? Please email program@gildasclubmadison.org or call 608-828-8880.

Writing Workshop - Novels for Kids and Teens
2026-05-05 18:00 - 20:00 (America/Chicago) | Arts + Literature Laboratory, 111 S Livingston St, Suite 100, Madison, WI, 53703, United States
Are you working on a novel for kids or teens? Don’t do it alone! In this writing workshop, writers will submit chapters from a middle grade or young adult novel in progress. Through critique and discussion, you’ll deepen your skills, develop a community of writers, and gain the momentum you need to carry your novel to the finish line. This workshop is perfect for those who have the writing basics under their belts, including folks who’ve taken Mel’s Writing YA and Middle Grade Novels class.
Scholarships available. Contact emily@artlitlab.org for details.
This is a 4 week course taking places on Tuesdays:
Week 1 – May 5th
Week 2 – May 12th
Week 3 – May 19th
Week 4 – May 26th

Cinco de Mayo Dinner at The Deliciouser
2026-05-05 18:00 - 20:00 (America/Chicago) | The Deliciouser, 931 E. Main St. Suite 7, Madison, WI, 53703, United States
Join Team Deliciouser as we celebrate Cinco de Mayo with unforgettable flavors and festivity.
The evening will consist of a vibrant five-course Mexican dinner, the menu will be revealed only upon arrival. From bold, smoky flavors to bright, citrusy notes, each course is thoughtfully crafted to showcase the richness and diversity of Mexican cuisine.
Expect a lively atmosphere filled with warm hospitality as well as dishes that honor both tradition and creativity. Whether you’re a lover of Mexican cuisine, or simply looking for a unique night out, this dining experience will delight your senses from beginning to end.
Bar & Shopping @ 5:30 p.m.
Dinner @ 6:15 p.m.
Tickets: $100
Your $25 reservation deposit will be subtracted from your final bill
We offer a 3% discount on final payment with cash

Cinco de Mayo Pop-Up Dinner
2026-05-05 17:00 - 21:00 (America/Chicago) | Garver Feed Mill, 3241 Garver Green, Madison, WI, 53407, United States
Celebrate Cinco de Mayo with three courses by Chef Alfredo Tamayo. The authentic menu offers a meat or vegetarian option with a cash bar featuring craft cocktail pairings from the Garver Lounge.
$44 per person (plus tax and fees) with seatings at 5pm, 6pm, 7pm & 8pm. Advance purchase required by May 5th at noon. 18% gratuity included in price.
🍽️ Menu:

Agua chile with shrimp (gf, df)
Cured shrimp, fresh tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and celery in a cilantro lime serrano pepper broth served with fresh tortilla chips
Pork belly with Oaxaca mole negro (gf, df, contains nuts)
Slow cooked pork belly topped with Oaxaca mole negro garnished with toasted sesame seeds, radishes, fine herbs, and pickled onions served on a bed of garlic white rice
Berry Taco (veg)
Fluffy hot cake topped with macerated berries, tres leches whipped cream, house made caramel sauce and candied almonds

🥬 Vegetarian Menu:

Agua chile with cactus (veg, gf)
Cured cactus, fresh tomatoes, radish, onion, and queso fresco tossed in a cilantro lime serrano pepper broth served with housemade tortilla chips
Veggie chile en nogada (veg, gf)
Roasted poblano chile with a fluffy egg crust stuffed with mixed vegetables and menonita cheese topped with en nogada sauce, pomegranate seeds, and fine herbs served on a bed of garlic white rice.
Berry Taco (veg)
Fluffy hot cake topped with macerated berries, tres leches whipped cream, house made caramel sauce and candied almonds

Cinco de Mayo at Minocqua Brewing Company
2026-05-05 16:00 - 20:30 (America/Chicago) | Minocqua Brewing Company, 2927 East Washington Avenue, Madison, WI, 53704, United States
Come in to celebrate Cinco de Mayo and the Gulf of (where?) Mexico. A dollar off all Gulf of Mexico lager taps and free chips…with Off the Block salsa from our non-profit partner Mentoring Positives.

Cancer Support Services at Gilda’s Club Wisconsin [In-Person]
2026-05-05 16:00 - 17:00 (America/Chicago) | Gilda’s Club Wisconsin, 7907 UW Health Ct, Middleton, WI, 53562, United States
Have you or someone you loved been given a cancer diagnosis? Are you looking for a space to connect with others who understand?
Join us for an in person group new member meeting. We’ll take some time to talk about the resources available at Gilda’s Club Wisconsin, then take a short tour of the clubhouse.
Meet at the Clubhouse located at 7907 UW Ct, Middleton, WI.

Karaoke with Tony G-every first and third Monday at 6pm!
2026-05-04 18:00 - 21:00 (America/Chicago) | Minocqua Brewing Company, 2927 East Washington Avenue, Madison, WI, 53704, United States
Tony G will be hosting karaoke on the first and third Monday of the month starting at 6pm. Sign up and sing anything your heart desires.
Happens on the following Dates:
May 4, 2026, 6:00pm to 9:00pm Timezone: Central Time (US & Canada)
May 18, 2026, 6:00pm to 9:00pm Timezone: Central Time (US & Canada)
Jun 1, 2026, 6:00pm to 9:00pm Timezone: Central Time (US & Canada)
Jun 15, 2026, 6:00pm to 9:00pm Timezone: Central Time (US & Canada)

Poems as Games
2026-05-04 18:00 - 20:00 (America/Chicago) | Arts + Literature Laboratory, 111 S Livingston St, Suite 100, Madison, WI, 53703, United States
Poem Games: Making a Play at a Poetry Practice
This three-week poetry workshop isn’t just fun and games — it’s a chance to rethink the barriers that lead us to take our creative work too seriously. Whether you are a current writer getting out of a creative rut or a new writer having trouble getting started, this workshop will help you approach poetry in new and playful ways. Looking at poems by others and writing work of our own, we will engage with processes, rulemaking and “games” to introduce chance, surprise, fun and inspiration to our poems.
Mondays May 5-18

MEDI Cycle 1: Now – new Madison dance incubator performance series launch
2026-05-03 19:00 - 21:00 (America/Chicago) | Ballet U, 411 Prairie Heights Dr, Verona, Wisconsin, 53593, United States
Madison Experimental Dance Incubator (MEDI) launches its inaugural performance event, MEDI Cycle 1: Now, a new platform supporting emerging and experimental choreography in the Madison area. The program features works by Bri Lucey, Christopher Coffman, Bhavani Dinakaran’s Soulful Dancers, Evan Stoll and Jen Costillo exploring themes of athleticism, identity, empathy, and the evolving life of a dancer. The evening concludes with an audience Q&A panel with the artists hosted by Robin Pettersen.
MEDI connects dance, technology, and interdisciplinary performance while creating new opportunities for regional creators to share work in progress.

Disney's Newsies: The Musical
2026-05-03 13:00 - 20:00, 2026-05-02 14:00 - 21:00 UTC | Starlight Theater at MYArts, 1055 E Mifflin St, Madison, WI, 53703, United States
When powerful New York newspaper publishers raise distribution prices at the newsboys’ expense, Jack Kelly rallies his ragtag group of “newsies” to fight back. Inspired by true events, this high-energy musical tells the story of young people discovering their voice and proving that courage and determination can change the world.
Recommended for ages 7+
Happens on the following Dates:
May 2, 2026, 2:00pm to 4:00pm Timezone: CDT
May 2, 2026, 7:00pm to 9:00pm Timezone: CDT
May 3, 2026, 1:00pm to 3:00pm Timezone: CDT
May 3, 2026, 6:00pm to 8:00pm Timezone: CDT
May 9, 2026, 2:00pm to 4:00pm Timezone: CDT
May 9, 2026, 7:00pm to 9:00pm Timezone: CDT
May 10, 2026, 1:00pm to 3:00pm Timezone: CDT
May 10, 2026, 6:00pm to 8:00pm Timezone: CDT
May 15, 2026, 7:00pm to 9:00pm Timezone: CDT
May 16, 2026, 2:00pm to 4:00pm Timezone: CDT
May 16, 2026, 7:00pm to 9:00pm Timezone: CDT
May 17, 2026, 1:00pm to 3:00pm Timezone: CDT
May 17, 2026, 6:00pm to 8:00pm Timezone: CDT

BB and the Billies
2026-05-02 15:00 - 17:00 (America/Chicago) | Minocqua Brewing Company, 2927 East Washington Avenue, Madison, WI, 53704, United States
BB & The Billies are a neo-traditional Country & Western/Americana trio hailing from the middle of nowhere, (Rochelle, Illinois) with influences ranging from Johnny Cash, Carl Perkins and The Carter Family to Neil Young, Lucinda Williams and John Prine.
Consisting of the effervescent “BB” (Betsy Petrie) on vocals and harmonica, “Li’l G” (Greg Barker) on the Gretsch Country Gentleman guitar and “Big T” (Toby Petrie) songsmith, vocals, cajon, accordion and various other noisemakers, the Billies sound incorporates traditional song structures with progressive and often ironic lyrics: An echo from the past with a clamor toward the future

Central Midwest Ballet's Spring Showcase
2026-05-02 13:00 - 20:00 (America/Chicago) | River Arts Center, 105 Ninth St. , Prairie du Sac, WI, 53578, United States
Featuring selections from classical ballet standards and new works created by local and regional artists. This family friendly production highlights the dancers of Central Midwest Ballet Academy performing in a mixed repertoire showcase.
1:00 & 6:00pm
Sponsored by: One Community Bank, Middleton Endowment, WI Arts Board, Madison Investments, Jason Thomas Homes, Dane Arts

May the Fourth Weekend
2026-05-02 12:00 - 2026-05-04 20:00 (America/Chicago) | Working Draft Beer Company, 1129 East Wilson Street, Madison, WI, 53703, United States
Happy Star Wars Day / Weekend!
The Midichlorian count will be high at the taproom all weekend because:
All Weekend
— We’re brewing a Berliner Weisse that allows you to choose the Light-Side or walk down the Dark-Side (and forever will it dominate your destiny if you do) by adding a Woodruff, Lavender, or Raspberry syrup.
— We’re bringing back Bantha’s Best Blue Hazy IPA from last year.
— We’ll have a Mandalorian Margarita 🍋‍🟩
— There will be fun stuff on the tv all weekend 😉
Saturday
— Cinn City Smash Burgers will be here from 1-7pm Saturday 🍔
— We’re hosting a Star Wars-themed Trivia Saturday at 6:30pm
Sunday
— We’re selling Great Taste of the Midwest tickets. Tickets go on sale at noon, but you can start lining up at 7am. The taps will be open at 8am!
— Sabor Regio will be serving food from 9am to 4pm. Breakfast tacos in the morning, yum 🌮
Monday
Lego Night will be Star Wars-themed!
We have friends everywhere. Bring yours to WDBC and join the rebellion!

UNA-Dane: 3rd Annual Women’s Summit – Digital Violence & Advocacy
2026-05-02 12:00 - 16:00 (America/Chicago) | Christ Presbyterian Church 944 E Gorham St, Madison, WI 53703, 944 E Gorham st, Madison, WI, 53703, United States
The Women’s Gender & Advocacy Group of the United Nations Association of the USA (UNA-USA) – Dane County Chapter will host its 3rd Annual Women’s Summit on Saturday, May 2, 2026, from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Christ Presbyterian Church, 944 Gorham St., Madison, Wisconsin.
This year’s summit, titled “The Digital Continuum of Violence Against Women: Why This Matters Now,” will bring together community members, advocates, and policy stakeholders to examine the growing impact of gender-based violence in digital spaces. The program will focus on how online harassment, coercion, and technology-facilitated abuse intersect with policy, advocacy, and community response efforts.
The summit will open at 11:00 am with a complimentary international lunch, designed to foster community connection and global dialogue.
Following the opening session, the program will include presentations and facilitated discussions exploring policy solutions, prevention strategies, and collaborative community responses to digital violence against women. Organizers emphasize the importance of addressing these issues as digital platforms continue to play a central role in daily life and social interaction.
Although the event is free to attend, advance registration is requested to ensure appropriate meal planning. Registration is available at www.unadane.org or via QR code.

Midwest Vintage Flea Spring '26
2026-05-02 11:00 - 2026-05-03 16:00 (America/Chicago) | Garver Feed Mill, 3241 Garver Green, Madison, WI, 53407, United States
Midwest Vintage Flea Spring 2026
📍 Garver Feed Mill | Madison, WI
🗓 Sat. May 2 & Sun. May 3
✨ Two days. 45+ vendors. Thousands of one-of-a-kind finds.
The Midwest’s biggest vintage clothing market is back for our 17th edition — and this one’s set to be the best yet. Step inside Garver Feed Mill for a curated shopping experience that brings together the region’s most iconic vintage shops and independent sellers, all under one roof. From rare 1800s heritage pieces to Y2K heat and timeless denim, you’ll find true vintage for your style and/or collections. This kicks off the first 10-year-anniversary commemorative shows.
🎟 Admission
Sat. May 2: $5 General Admission (11–6 PM) Cash / Venmo
Sun. May 3: FREE General Admission! (11–4 PM)
Early Bird Access: $20 (Sat. 10–11 AM only, limited to 50 spots)
midwestvintageflea.com/tickets
🍸 Sip & shop with a specialty cocktail menu, grab a bite, and enjoy Madison’s favorite gathering of vintage enthusiasts, fashion creatives, and collectors.
🚲 Easy access by bike + trail, car (two attended parking lots), or Metro bus.

Trunk Show Featuring Hello Adorn
2026-05-02 11:00 - 15:00 (America/Chicago) | Poppy – Home & Gift, 1821 Parmenter Street, Middleton, WI, 53562, United States
Our jewelry selection is expanding at Poppy and we’re celebrating in a big way!!
Join us for the Hello Adorn Trunk Show as we introduce a new jewelry space in the shop. Shop exclusive, event-only pieces, and browse the new collection!
Sip on mocktails, shop the collection, and enjoy a fun afternoon with your girlfriends or stop in and find the perfect piece for Mother’s Day!
Hello Adorn is a Wisconsin-based jewelry brand that is known for their effortless, everyday pieces designed to be worn and layered.
We are looking forward to seeing you!

Pinney Saturday Music Series - presenting the Madison Brass Band
2026-05-02 11:00 - 12:00 (America/Chicago) | Pinney Library, 204 Cottage Grove Rd. , Madison, WI, 53716, United States
Pinney Library
Community Rooms A and B Combined
May 2, 2026 | 11am – 12pm
The Pinney Saturday Music Series welcomes performers on the first Saturday of the month! (Intended audience is adults, teens, and older children.)
The Madison Brass Band in its current form was created in 2002 and is one of three British-style brass bands in Wisconsin. The band has performed as a small group and full band all across Wisconsin and across the United States and play a variety of music including contest music, marches, hymns, ballads, pops, jazz, and more!
The series is generously sponsored by The Friends of Pinney Library.

Black Earth Children's Museum Badgerland Learning Day
2026-05-02 10:00 - 11:30 (America/Chicago) | Black Earth Children’s Museum, 1131 Mills Street, Black Earth, WI, 53515, United States
Join us on May 2nd from 10am to 11:30am as Heidi from Center Ground Studios will guide your kids in building a mosaic style wooden recycled sculpture in the style of American contemporary artist Louise Nevelson. Let your kids’ creativity flow. They will love the hands-on experience in designing and building their own art sculpture. All ages are welcome.

Half-Pint Resale Spring Sale
2026-05-02 08:00 - 2026-05-03 13:00 (America/Chicago) | Alliant Energy Center, 1919 Alliant Energy Center Way, Madison, WI, WI, 53713, United States
The Madison area’s largest children’s consignment sale, featuring tens of thousands of items for pregnant moms, expecting parents, and young families, featuring items of all types for ages 0 – 12, plus maternity. Register to consign your items, or volunteer to work the sale and get access to the presale held on Friday May 1. A half-price sale will be held on Sunday May 3 from 8am – 1pm. Put your clothing and money back into our community in this mom owned and 100% local sale. The sale will be held at the Alliant Energy Center’s Arena building, with FREE parking!

Food Truck Friday at Working Draft Beer Company
2026-05-01 17:00 - 20:00 (America/Chicago) | Working Draft Beer Company, 1129 East Wilson Street, Madison, WI, 53703, United States
Every Friday from May through September, we are hosting a food truck from 5-8pm!
We will be rotating through the following food trucks each Friday night:
Banzo – Amazing Mediterranean food
El Grito – Unique, inspired tacos
Paul’s Pel’Meni – Authentic dumplings
Sabor Regio – Tasty street tacos and more
Sandwich Hub – Sandwiches made from scratch
Check Working Draft’s website to see what the food truck is this week.
Food goes great with beer and beer goes great with food. Bon apetit!
This is a Weekly Recurring Event runs from May 1, 2026 to Sep 25, 2026 and happens every Fridays
