Get ready for a fun, late-winter weekend in Madison! Saturday is packed with free entertainment at the Overture Center, plus hands-on activities at the Libraries. Sunday brings a lovely nature walk at the Arboretum.
See our top picks
Mark Hayward
Overture Center, Rotunda Stage
Free comedy and object manipulation show tailored for kids 9 and under.
Wisconsin Fishing Expo - Kids Activities
Alliant Energy Center
A major indoor event with dedicated fun zones for kids.
Let's Move! with Abby
Madison Children's Museum
Morning of movement games, dances, and balance activities.
· February 28
12: Part of the massive Wisconsin Fishing Expo, this dedicated section features activities just for kids interested in angling. It's a great way to spend part of a chilly Saturday indoors.This event runs the entire weekend, offering a major indoor option on Saturday.
DINOSAUR WORLD LIVE : Catch a live performance featuring giant, roaring dinosaurs right at the Overture Center. This sounds like an exciting spectacle for elementary-aged kids.A major attraction at the Overture Center that is explicitly family-friendly and only runs Saturday.
ESCAPE THE KRAKEN ESCAPE ROOM: FAMILIES - STOUGHTON : This is a family-focused escape room hosted at the Stoughton Library early Saturday morning. It’s a great activity if you want a challenging group puzzle before the main daytime events start.It's an organized puzzle activity specifically designated for families on Saturday morning.
: A character visit from Elsa at Miggy's Bakes on Saturday morning. This is perfect for younger children who love character meet-and-greets with their baked goods.Character appearances at local businesses are big hits with the under-5 crowd, and it's only on Saturday.
ESPECIALLY STROOPWAFELS SHOW AND TELL : Head out to Waunakee for a special show and tell event focused on stroopwafels at the library. This is a unique morning activity for curious kids.A quirky, local library event specifically listed for Saturday morning, offering something different than the usual craft.
: A robotics event happening at the Middleton Library late Saturday morning. If your kids love tech and engineering, this library program is a must-see.Specific, themed STEM activity at a library, making it a focused educational outing for Saturday.
: Explore the world of large insects during this family class at Olbrich Botanical Gardens. Botanical garden classes are usually hands-on and great for getting kids engaged with nature.Hands-on nature exploration centered around bugs at a beautiful local spot, happening Saturday morning.
: Join Stuart Stotts for a big sing-along event at MYArts on Saturday. This promises active participation and music, which is fantastic for restless younger kids.A community singing event with a known performer, perfect for engaging children who love music, only available Saturday.
: Celebrate the Lunar New Year by making a paper lantern to take home at the Children's Museum on Saturday. This craft celebrates the Year of the Horse tradition.A timely, hands-on cultural craft activity happening midday Saturday at a top family venue.
: Continue the Lunar New Year celebration by painting and decorating a wooden horse figure in the afternoon. This workshop captures the powerful spirit of the horse zodiac sign.A secondary, afternoon craft session at the museum focused on the same Saturday theme.
: A dedicated, family-friendly trivia session early Saturday evening. This is a great option for families with older kids or teens who enjoy friendly competition.Specific designation for 'Family Friendly' trivia makes it suitable for mixed-age groups on Saturday.
: A morning dedicated to movement games, dances, and balance activities led by Abby at the Children's Museum. This is great for burning off energy early Saturday.A structured movement activity on Saturday morning at the Children's Museum, great for getting toddlers and preschoolers moving.
· March 1
1FAMILY NATURE WALK : Take a guided walk through the Arboretum focused on nature exploration perfect for kids and youth. It's a nice way to get some fresh air on Sunday afternoon.This is the only specified event occurring on Sunday, March 1st, and focuses on nature suitable for children.
Also On· anytime this weekend
1FREE : Mark Hayward brings a delightful mix of comedy and object manipulation perfect for younger kids. Watch him work with everything from yo-yos and tops to a mousetrap for a witty show.This is a free, live performance tailored specifically for young children happening right in the middle of the weekend.
Frequently Asked Questions
What free kids events are on in Madison this weekend?
The best free event this weekend is the Mark Hayward performance on Saturday, February 28th, at the Overture Center Rotunda Stage, with multiple showtimes available.
Is there anything happening on Sunday, March 1st?
Yes, on Sunday, March 1st, you can join the Family Nature Walk at the UW–Madison Arboretum from 1:30–2:30 p.m. to explore the outdoors.
What activities are available for kids who love science or making things on Saturday?
On Saturday, February 28th, check out Paradox Robotics at the Middleton Library (10:30 AM) or participate in the Chinese New Year crafts at the Madison Children's Museum (Lanterns at 10:30 AM or Horses at 1:00 PM).
