BRAVA Magazine

FREE Sunday Ballet Class
2026-04-26 12:30 - 14:00 (America/Chicago) | Central Midwest Ballet Academy, 2831 Parmenter Street, Middleton, WI, 53562, United States
Come dance with us and give Central Midwest Ballet’s classes a try!
Open to all dancers ages 11+ including adults. These FREE classes will be taught by CMB faculty members at an intermediate to advanced level. There is no dress code and the doors will open 20 minutes before class begins. Class is completely free, but please register ahead of time so we know how many to expect.
Sunday, April 26
12:30 – 2:00pm
Sunday, May 31
12:30 – 2:00pm
Registration Link
https://www.cmballet.org/free-sunday-classes

Meat Raffle at Working Draft Beer Company
2026-04-26 14:00 - 15:30 (America/Chicago) | Working Draft Beer Company, 1129 East Wilson Street, Madison, WI, 53703, United States
Working Draft is hosting a Meat Raffle the last Sunday of the month!
Our monthly Meat Raffles start at 2pm, last six rounds, paddles are $2 per round, and feature meat from Jenifer Street Market, Conscious Carnivore, Willow Creek, Wells Family Farms, and more.
And you won’t find a more personable, engaging emcee than our very own Kyle.
We love a good Meat Raffle, and we know that you do too 🥩
This event will occur every last Sunday of the month from Mar 29, 2026 to Dec 27, 2026.

Lost Soul Jazz Band
2026-04-26 14:00 - 16:00 (America/Chicago) | Minocqua Brewing Company, 2927 East Washington Avenue, Madison, WI, 53704, United States
Lost Soul Jazz Band
A modern take on pre-war Jazz and roots music.
A little bit of New Orleans, a whole lot of Madison.

Cancer Support Services through Gilda’s Club Wisconsin [Virtual]
2026-04-28 16:30 - 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 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.

Cancer Support Services at Gilda’s Club Wisconsin [In-Person]
2026-04-29 16:00 - 17:00, 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.

Inner Light Women's Circle: Sacred Boundaries
2026-04-29 17:45 - 18:45 (America/Chicago) | Ether Wellness, 25 N Pinckney St. Ste 310, Madison, WI, 53703, United States
An evening devoted to protecting your peace and honoring your energy. Through meditation, reflection, and connection, we’ll explore what it means to create boundaries that feel empowering rather than restrictive.
Led by Kari Mysker, The Inner Light Women’s Circle is a gathering designed to help guide you out of your comfort zone gently and into your higher self, show up authentically, and connect with yourself and others on a deeper level, without judgement.
Each session blends grounding practices (meditation, breathwork, somatic practices), journaling or an oracle card pull, and open-hearted sharing. Some circles also weave in themes, rituals, or creative expression to nurture self-discovery and soul connection.
April Theme: Sacred Boundaries
When: Wednesday, April 29th, 5:45-6:45pm
Where: Ether Wellness | 25 N Pinckney St. (Ste 310), Madison, WI
Cost: $18 (free for 1:1 Clients & Studio Members)
Learn More –> https://etherwellnessmadison.com/inner-light-womens-circle/
Register Here –> https://etherwellnessmadison.buzops.com/InnerLight
Limited spots are available! Enrollment is intentionally limited to ensure each woman feels safe, seen, and supported.

Cancer Transitions for Caregivers [Virtual]
2026-04-29 18:00 - 19:30 (America/Chicago) | Gilda’s Club Wisconsin, 7907 UW Health Ct, Middleton, WI, 53562, United States
This course will take place over four consecutive weeks on Wednesdays (April 29, May 5, May 13, and May 20), 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm via Zoom. The intended audience is those who care for someone with a cancer diagnosis. Caregiving can bring up many emotions, and even more once treatment ends. The post-treatment phase of survivorship is an opportunity to re-focus on yourself and your own needs.
Cancer Transitions® for Caregivers is a free, four-week workshop designed to help you move into the next phase of life with skills. Session 1: Re-focusing on You; Session 2: Health & Wellness; Session 3: Emotions & Relationships; and Session 4: Looking into the Future.
Attendance at all four sessions is strongly recommended. Questions? Email Kirsten Norslien at Kirsten@gildasclubmadison.org.

Downtown Middleton Sip & Stroll: Wine Walk
2026-04-30 17:00 - 20:30 (America/Chicago)
Raise your glasses and grab your passports! The Downtown Middleton Business Association is excited to host our annual Sip & Stroll: Wine Walk. This year the theme is Around the World!
This event is organized by the Downtown Middleton Business Association and will take place from 5 – 8:30 p.m., Thursday, April 30. Each of the 20+ stops along the way will feature a wine from a different region of the world, giving you the chance to explore international flavors as you stroll through the historic Downtown Middleton. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or simply enjoy a cold drink, this event promises something for everyone.
This Sip & Stroll isn’t just about drinking — it’s also a celebration of community and culture. As you stroll from one tasting station to the next, you’ll have the opportunity to discover the unique flavors and personalities of Downtown Middleton’s vibrant local businesses.
Tickets cost $40 or $12 for a designated driver ticket and include:
-20+ sip stops
-Keepsake sampling wine glass
-Delicious apps and snacks at each stop
-Photo op stops along the way
-Exclusive specials from participating businesses

Monkey Business Institute Improv
2026-04-30 18:00 - 19:30 (America/Chicago) | Gilda’s Club Wisconsin, 7907 UW Health Ct, Middleton, WI, 53562, United States
Monkey Business Institute (MBI) is Madison’s favorite improv comedy company, made up of seasoned performers who have been creating laughter and connection in our community for 20+ years. We believe—just like Gilda’s Club—that laughter is powerful, healing, and best enjoyed in a space where everyone feels welcome, respected, and safe.
Each MBI show is completely custom, inspired by audience suggestions and shaped in the moment. That means no scripts, no re-runs, and no picking on anyone—ever. Our performers are kind humans first and comedians second, and our goal is always to lift people up, not put them on the spot. Audience participation is always invitational, supportive, and done with care, so everyone can relax and enjoy the fun.
This one-hour show is packed with fast-paced, classic short-form improv comedy that’s smart, clean, and laugh-out-loud funny. The content is appropriate for all ages—delighting kids, adults, and anyone who appreciates clever humor with heart. Expect big laughs, joyful surprises, and a room full of people feeling connected, seen, and a little lighter than when they arrived.
Join us for this great evening of the unexpected, improv, and laughter.

A Starry Night at Mimosa Books & Gifts
2026-04-30 18:00 - 21:00 (America/Chicago) | Mimosa Books & Gifts, 409 State Street, Madison, WI, 53703, United States
Join us for A Starry Night at Mimosa Books & Gifts – an immersive, free event filled with crystals, tarot and celestial vibes on the cusp of summer. Explore thousands of brand-new crystals sourced from around the world, many arriving fresh from the world’s largest gem and mineral show, and be among the first to see these sparkling new arrivals.
Enjoy complimentary finger foods, desserts and drinks while soaking in the cozy, nocturnal atmosphere. Guests can receive a free tarot reading from Stargaze Tarot, enter a raffle-style prize drawing with multiple winners, and receive a gift bag on entry while supplies last.
Whether you’re a crystal collector, tarot-curious or simply looking for a fun and magical night out, A Starry Night is a perfect way to gather with friends, discover something new and support a local, woman-owned business!
Thursday, April 30 | 6–9 PM
Mimosa Books & Gifts
409 State St, Madison, WI
Free admission | All are welcome

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

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!

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.

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.

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!

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.

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.

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!

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

Disney's Newsies: The Musical
2026-05-02 14:00 - 21:00, 2026-05-03 13:00 - 20:00 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

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.

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

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)

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.

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 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

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
