Harvest

Madisonians have been eating local long before it was cool. The end of a rich growing season brings a celebration of farm-to-table and other Wisconsin food traditions. Autumn favorites like apple cider donuts and roasted corn on the cob abound. Talented area chefs embrace sustainability and community-supported agriculture while serving up ethnically diverse cuisine.

The Dane County Farmers’ Market is the largest producer-only market in the country, meaning everything you see there is sold by the growers themselves. More than 160 Wisconsin vendors line the Capitol Square each Saturday, making for a bustling scene in the heart of downtown. Take your pick of the freshest produce; sample homemade jams, artisan cheeses and baked goods.

Farmers’ Market on the Square

Crispy garlic cheese balls. Brisket slider. Salted caramel chocolate cake. Follow your appetite through the Taste of Madison, a Labor Day weekend food-sampling extravaganza, featuring more than 80 local restaurants and their best creations. With dozens of musical acts performing around the Capitol Square all weekend long, this free event is a delicious way to kick off the fall season.

Taste of Madison