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- calendar_today October 26, 2026
Overview: Madison Events for October 26–29, 2026
This week, Madison is set to host a varied lineup of cultural events, including live music concerts, literary readings, film screenings, art exhibitions, theater performances, and thought-provoking public talks. Spanning venues across the city, the schedule features both local and national talent, offering the community a wealth of entertainment and enrichment opportunities.
Live Music Concerts and Performances
American Aquarium and Kalyn Fay
October 26, 8 p.m., High Noon Saloon
Alt-country band American Aquarium brings their tour supporting their latest album, New Ways to Lose, to Madison. The group's music is inspired by Wilco and Bruce Springsteen. Oklahoma singer-songwriter Kalyn Fay, who is of Cherokee Nation and Muscogee descent, opens. Tickets available.
The Tallest Man on Earth
October 27, 8 p.m., Majestic
Kristian Matsson, known as The Tallest Man on Earth, showcases his new album Just Beyond Endless Mountains, which blends Bob Dylan influences with Swedish folk music. Gwenifer Raymond will also perform. Tickets available.
Phillip Phillips with Katie Lynne Sharbaugh
October 29, 8 p.m., Majestic
Season 11 American Idol winner Phillip Phillips headlines with songs from his latest EP, Let's Go Far: Vol. 1, joined by Nashville-based opener Katie Lynne Sharbaugh. Tickets available.
Literary Events and Talks
Bill Gillard on Robert Bloch and a Screening of Psycho
October 27, 12:15 p.m., Madison Senior Center
Author Bill Gillard will discuss his new book, Psycho Century: Robert Bloch, American Horror Master, and introduce a screening of Hitchcock’s classic Psycho. Admission is free.
Stu Levitan at the Wisconsin Book Festival
October 27, 5:30 p.m., Central Library
Journalist and former Dane County supervisor Stu Levitan presents Madison: The Illustrated Sesquicentennial History, Volume 2, 1932–1979. This book provides a decade-by-decade visual exploration of Madison's local history. More info.
Sherman Funmaker: Ho-Chunk Memoir Reading
October 28, 7 p.m., Sequoya Library
Author Sherman Funmaker will read and discuss his memoir, Bear Tracks: Memories of a Ho-Chunk Elder, as part of the "Teejop & Beyond: Celebrating Native Nations" series. The event highlights his life and Ho-Chunk traditions.
Film Screenings and Public Discussions
William Shatner and Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan
October 28, 7:30 p.m., Orpheum
William Shatner will discuss the iconic science fiction film after a special screening. Tickets available.
Soul Patrol Documentary Premiere
October 29, 7 p.m., UW Cinematheque
This new documentary explores the experiences of the Vietnam War’s first all-Black long range reconnaissance patrol unit. Director J.M. Harper and journalist Jesse Lewis will participate in a post-screening discussion. The event is co-hosted by the Wisconsin Veterans Museum.
Art Exhibitions and Theater Performances
Recollection: Exhibiting the Collection at Chazen Museum of Art
Through December 23
The Chazen Museum’s "Recollection" exhibition showcases the museum's new thematic approach to its collection, creating fresh perspectives on art across eras and places. Exhibition details.
Madison Ballet Opens 45th Season
October 29–November 1, Madison Youth Arts
Jekyll & Hyde, based on Robert Louis Stevenson’s novella, debuts as a world premiere choreographed by Ja' Malik and Richard Walters. Tickets available.
Forward Theater's Gaslight
October 29–November 22, Overture Center-Playhouse
"Gaslight" is presented in a new adaptation by Steven Dietz, relocating the classic story to New York City and giving the character Bella a stronger presence. Performances run multiple dates; tickets can be found here.
Political and Community Talks
Inside Wisconsin Politics Live
October 27, 6 p.m., High Noon Saloon
A live version of Wisconsin Public Radio’s weekly political program will feature reporters Shawn Johnson, Anya van Wagtendonk, and Rich Kremer with PBS Wisconsin's Zac Schultz discussing the 2026 election. Registration is requested for this free event. Register here.
Discover More Madison Events This Week
For a full list of community festivals, cultural events, and other happenings in Madison, visit the complete event calendar.
Source: isthmus.com.
