The Northside Festival will return to Warner Park on Saturday, Sept. 13, bringing an afternoon of food, music, and family activities that celebrate the vibrancy and pride of Madison’s North Side.
Running from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Duck Pond at Warner Park, the festival will feature four hours of music from DJ Terrence J, dozens of local food carts and vendors, and a full lineup of activities for kids and families.
Community Celebration
Hosted by the Northside Planning Council, the festival highlights the strong sense of connection among residents and businesses. “I would say [the vibe is] very rich in community,” said Shaunte McCullum, chair of the Planning Council’s board and a local business owner. “You get to connect with other businesses … and make introductions, meaningful connections. And then it’s also a place where the kids can come out and enjoy some time outdoors.”
McCullum said the event draws hundreds each year and reflects the “Northside pride” that characterizes the neighborhood. “Everyone I’ve come across that either lives or works on the Northside … it’s very much Northside pride, and people look for solutions, they offer resources. It’s just a good vibe,” she said.
Food and Vendors
A highlight of the festival is the wide range of food available from local small businesses, many of which got their start at FEED Kitchens. This year’s lineup includes:
- Jolly Frog LLC
- The Roost
- Thailand in a Truck
- M&J Jamaican Kitch’n, LLC
- KC Taste LLC
- Bit of Briana Food Truck
- Ara’s Antojitos Mexican Authentic Food Truck
- Cool Sweet Treats Ice Cream Truck
In addition, dozens of local organizations and entrepreneurs will have booths to showcase their work and connect with the community.
(Photo by Omar Waheed)
Family-Friendly Fun
Kids and families will find plenty to do, with activities ranging from face painting and balloon twisting to inflatable games, ladder golf, bags, giant Connect 4, and giant Jenga. The popular dunk tank returns, along with MSCR’s Play on the Move and Art Cart, Madison Reading Project’s book giveaways, a fast pitch game, and a photo booth for selfies.
Open to All
While the festival is rooted in celebrating the North Side, McCullum emphasized that everyone is welcome.
“Even if you’re not from the North Side, don’t feel like you can’t come out. Absolutely still come out,” she said.
Madison365 is proud to be a media sponsor of this year’s festival.
The North Side Festival takes place Saturday, Sept. 13, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Warner Park’s Duck Pond.
