February 2026 Events in Madison, WI: Things to Do, Winter Festivals, and Local Favorites
What are the best things to do in Madison in February?From winter festivals and UW Badger games to live performances, markets, and family-friendly activities, February 2026 is packed with events happening all across Madison, Wisconsin.
TL;DR – February in Madison at a Glance
February in Madison is full of winter festivals, UW sports, live theater, markets, food and drink events, and family-friendly activities. Highlights include Frozen Assets Festival at the Edgewater, multiple Overture Center performances, Badger basketball and hockey games, Valentine’s and Galentine’s events, winter markets, and recurring weekly favorites like the Dane County Winter Farmers’ Market.
February is one of those months that shows what living in Madison is really like. The lakes are frozen, the city leans into winter, and the calendar stays full. Whether you’re planning a date night, a family outing, or just looking for something fun to do on a cold weekend, there’s no shortage of options.
Below is a complete February 2026 Madison events list, pulled directly from our February in Madison events calendar so you can easily explore, save, and link out to what interests you most.
Arts, Theater & Live Performances
Madison’s arts scene is especially strong in February, with performances happening all month long.
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Wisconsin Grown Up Book Fair (2/1) – The Sylvee
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Step Afrika! – The Migration (2/4) – Overture Center
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The Hobbit (2/7–2/21) – Children’s Theater of Madison at Overture Center
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Everlasting Faint (2/13 & 2/15) – Madison Opera at Overture Center
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Pointes of View (2/13–2/15) – Madison Ballet at Overture Center
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Rachel Barton Pine with the Madison Symphony Orchestra (2/20–2/22) – Overture Center
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Dinosaur World Live (2/28) – Overture Center
These performances are a big reason winter in Madison still feels lively and culture-forward.
UW Badger Sports & College Athletics
February is peak season for Badger fans, with multiple home games across basketball and hockey.
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UW Women’s Basketball vs Indiana (2/4) – Kohl Center
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UW Men’s Hockey vs Notre Dame (2/6) – Kohl Center
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UW Women’s Hockey vs Ohio State (2/7) – LaBahn Arena
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UW Women’s Basketball vs Washington (2/8) – Kohl Center
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UW Men’s Basketball vs Michigan State (2/13) – Kohl Center
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UW Women’s Basketball vs Minnesota (2/15) – Kohl Center
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UW Men’s Hockey vs Michigan (2/20) – Kohl Center
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UW Women’s Hockey vs St. Cloud State (2/21–2/22) – LaBahn Arena
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UW Men’s Basketball vs Iowa (2/22) – Kohl Center
Attending a February Badger game is one of the fastest ways to feel connected to Madison.
Winter Festivals & Seasonal Events
Madison embraces winter, and February is full of seasonal traditions locals look forward to every year.
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A Frozen Night on the Plaza (2/4) – Edgewater Hotel
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Frozen Assets Festival (2/7–2/8) – Edgewater Hotel
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Frosty Fun (2/7) – UW Alumni Association
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Family Winter Prom (2/7) – Monona Terrace
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Polar Plunge (2/13–2/14) – Henry Vilas Zoo
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Fire & Wonder Winter Gathering (2/21) – San Damiano Monona
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Wisconsin Fishing Expo (2/27–3/1) – Alliant Energy Center
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Bockfest (2/28) – Capital Brewery
These events highlight why winter in Madison still feels social and community-driven.
Food, Drink & Date-Night Events
February is prime time for cozy nights out and food-focused events.
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Fondue Night (2/3) – The Deliciouser
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Cave and Cocktails (2/5) – Cave of the Mounds
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Beer and Chocolate Pairing (2/6) – Starkweather Brewing Company
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Sweetheart Dinner Cooking Class (2/11) – Delectable
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A Galentine’s Stroll (2/12) – Hilldale Mall
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Puppy Yoga (2/14) – Hidden Cave Cidery
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Valentine’s Day Disco Skate (2/14) – Edgewater Hotel
These are perfect for date nights, friend outings, or something a little different in the winter months.
Markets, Makers & Expos
Winter is a great time to explore Madison’s local maker and small business scene.
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Madison Makers Winter Market (2/7) – Giant Jones Brewing Company
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Fine Art and Craft Sale (2/7–2/8) – Olbrich Gardens
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Garden and Green Living Expo (2/13–2/15) – Alliant Energy Center
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Mad City Model Railway Show (2/21–2/22) – Alliant Energy Center
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Garver Wedding Expo (2/21) – Garver Feed Mill
Family-Friendly & Recurring Events
Madison continues to offer weekly and family-focused events all month long.
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Adult Swim (2/6) – Madison Children’s Museum
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Bring Your Own Baby Comedy Show (2/21) – Madison Children’s Museum
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Every Wednesday: The Mic on State – Comedy on State
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Every Thursday: Free Family Fun Night – Madison Children’s Museum
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Every Saturday: Dane County Winter Farmers’ Market – Garver Feed Mill
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Every Saturday: Kids in the Rotunda – Overture Center
These recurring events are staples for many Madison families during winter.
Why February in Madison Matters
For people considering a move to Madison, February often tells the real story. This month shows that even in winter, Madison stays active, social, and full of opportunity to connect with the community.
It’s one of the reasons so many people fall in love with living here year-round.
Thinking About Living in Madison?
If you’re exploring a move to Madison or Dane County, our Inside Madison Relocation Guide breaks down neighborhoods, schools, lifestyle, and what daily life really looks like here.
Reach out anytime or grab the guide to start planning with local insight you can trust.
- Explore Madison neighborhoods through our local video tours
- Begin your Madison home search
- Download the Inside Madison Relocation Guide
