Community Potluck Celebrating Madison’s Refugee Families
Open Doors for Refugees will hold its annual Community Potluck Picnic on Sunday, June 21, 2026, at Elver Park from 12 to 3 p.m.
This event is free and open to the public. It has family-friendly activities, live music, and a potluck luncheon with food from around the world. A celebration of neighborliness, the picnic provides a unique opportunity to connect with refugee families who are making their home in Madison and to reaffirm America’s long tradition of welcoming immigrants.
Children of all ages will enjoy games and activities run by the Madison Children’s Museum and MSCR’s Clay on the Move.
Live music will include traditional Colombian music by Cumbia Cachaca, the dulcimer/ percussive artist Gloria Hays, and the deep blues of Tani Diakite and the Afrofunkstars. Toe-tapping likely. Dancing encouraged!
Open Doors for Refugees is a volunteer organization formed in 2016 after Syrian refugees began arriving in Madison. Our mission is to help refugees make a home here.
Last year’s picnic drew 250-plus people despite the heat. This year we are planning for a bigger crowd yet!
In the current political environment, it is more important than ever to show support for our immigrant neighbors. Please help this effort by letting people know about this free community event.