WPR Music, Arts & Culture calendar

Celebrate the fall harvest with us in Bayfield, Wisconsin! Enjoy various apple orchard events and tours, and come downtown for live music, food and craft vendors, and the Spectrum Carnival. We hope to see you on October 3, 4 and 5, 2025!

River Bend Nature Center is pleased to host the 13th Annual Chainsaw Carving & Art Forest Festival on October 5th. During the free event, all ages are invited to watch chainsaw artists create incredible sculptures from logs; join the bidding fun when all carvings go to a lively public auction. Make a day of it…there […]

Back by popular demand! Based on Dahl’s beloved classic, this captivating musical follows a brilliant little girl with extraordinary powers who refuses to let her cruel parents or a tyrannical headmistress hold her back. Armed with a sharp mind, a vivid imagination, and a bit of magic, Matilda dares to take a stand and rewrite […]

For the October installment of the Gary McWithey Concert Series, please join Chicago-based violinist, Heather Boehm, and James Grzadzinski, pianist/organist for an afternoon concert of beloved, diverse repertoire. Freewill offering. All are welcome!

The UWM Concert Chorale presents their first concert of the year, joined by choirs from area high schools. As the most select UWM choral ensemble, Concert Chorale carries a long […]

With more than 40 sets of larger-than-life lantern displays, Boerner Botanical Garden in Whitnall Park will be transformed into a magical forest for this 2025 season! Complimentary live stage entertainment is included in the admission daily. The performance hours are 6:30pm, 7:30pm, and 9:00pm. Each show lasts for about 30 minutes. Stage performance might be […]

Back by popular demand! Based on Dahl’s beloved classic, this captivating musical follows a brilliant little girl with extraordinary powers who refuses to let her cruel parents or a tyrannical headmistress hold her back. Armed with a sharp mind, a vivid imagination, and a bit of magic, Matilda dares to take a stand and rewrite […]

Experience an unforgettable evening of passion, elegance, and musical brilliance as acclaimed pianist Kate Boyd joins forces with the renowned Griffon String Quartet. Kate brings to life Das Jahr, H. 385—Fanny Mendelssohn’s evocative and rarely performed masterpiece that captures the emotional essence of the changing seasons. The program also features Mozart’s beloved Piano Quartet No. […]

The Witcher in Concert is coming to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the critically acclaimed The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt! Witness the open-world RPG’s timeless score brought to life with a live orchestra performance, featuring special appearances by Polish folk metal band Percival, the original co-composers of the game’s soundtrack. This cinematic experience combines breathtaking […]

A.J. Croce Presents CROCE PLAYS CROCE: Where The Songbook Ends, The Story Begins. – “A New Chapter in a Musical Odyssey.” Join A.J. Croce and his band for a special performance of songs from his own catalogue along with the timeless songs and stories of his father, Jim Croce. Like only the most enduring of […]

The Wisconsin Historical Society and the Center for the Study of the American Constitution at the University of Wisconsin-Madison are excited to present the 2025 James Madison Lecture featuring Jeffrey Rosen, President and CEO of the National Constitution Center. Rosen is also a professor of law at the George Washington University Law School and a […]

The Wisconsin Historical Society and the Center for the Study of the American Constitution at the University of Wisconsin-Madison are excited to present the 2025 James Madison Lecture featuring Jeffrey Rosen, President and CEO of the National Constitution Center. Rosen is also a professor of law at the George Washington University Law School and a […]

With more than 40 sets of larger-than-life lantern displays, Boerner Botanical Garden in Whitnall Park will be transformed into a magical forest for this 2025 season! Complimentary live stage entertainment is included in the admission daily. The performance hours are 6:30pm, 7:30pm, and 9:00pm. Each show lasts for about 30 minutes. Stage performance might be […]

Prepare for a thrilling collision of sound and movement in UNLEASHED, featuring the award-winning Scottish folk band Talisk and the world-famous Gardiner Brothers, viral Irish dance sensations with over 1 billion views on social media. Talisk’s explosive melodies blend seamlessly with the Gardiner Brothers’ rhythmic precision in a dazzling showcase of talent that redefines music […]

Calling all homeschool learners and non-traditional students! Learners of all ages will be invited to explore the horse-powered world of Wade House and Wisconsin in the mid-1800s. Upon arrival, visitors […]

Noon Hour Philosophers – 2025 Fall Schedule Fascinating speakers on diverse subjects of community interest, free and open to the public Meets at First English Lutheran Church 326 E. North St. (corner of Drew St.) Parking Lot Entrance 12 noon to 1:00 p.m. Guests always welcome, bring a friend Check our Facebook page for cancellations […]

With more than 40 sets of larger-than-life lantern displays, Boerner Botanical Garden in Whitnall Park will be transformed into a magical forest for this 2025 season! Complimentary live stage entertainment is included in the admission daily. The performance hours are 6:30pm, 7:30pm, and 9:00pm. Each show lasts for about 30 minutes. Stage performance might be […]

Can Dementia Be Prevented? What really works when it comes to preventing dementia? October 8, 2025 6 p.m. | Cleary & Friends Alumni Center FREE AND OPEN TO THE PUBLIC Join Alexis Eastman, M.D., a leading expert in geriatric medicine, for a dynamic, one-hour session exploring the latest scientific findings on how to reduce your […]

Join Tergar Madison for a 5-week hybrid workshop designed to make meditation enriching and accessible from anywhere. This program will guide you through the essential topics of awareness, compassion, and wisdom, blending traditional teachings with modern insights. The workshop will be led by Scott Anderson, an experienced meditator and teacher who combines his expertise in […]

Full of wit, absurdity and sly social commentary, HMS Pinafore is a hilarious tale of love, honor and duty aboard a Royal Navy ship whimsically named after a woman’s garment. […]

Bob Mould’s 15th solo album, Here We Go Crazy, is a distillation of the unfailing melodic skill, the emotional lucidity and dynamic fluency he’s developed over more than four decades. Its turbulent vignettes are scored by Mould’s familiar bruised tunefulness, but the sound is pared back to its fundamentals, 11 songs blistering past in just […]

The 23rd Annual Pumpkin Run ATV/UTV Rally kicks off Columbus Day weekend in Mercer, Wisconsin. The event, held Thursday, October 9 through Sunday, October 12, promotes riding in Iron County, Wisconsin – the ultimate ATV and UTV adventure! A Multi-day poker run, ATV, UTV and lawn tractor pulls, the Great Pumpkin Parade through downtown Mercer, […]

Take a break from your day and Gather with the Griffon—a refreshing series of midday B Double Sharp miniconcerts that nourish both mind and spirit. Featuring selections from the Griffon String Quartet’s December concerts, these intimate performances blend inspiring music with engaging conversation in a relaxed, welcoming setting. Performed by Roy Meyer and Alex Norris […]

Únanse al Madison Children’s Museum en nuestra celebración anual de la herencia hispana el jueves 9 de octubre, de 5 a 8 p. m. ¡Disfrute de una noche de música, comida, actividades artísticas, espectáculos culturales y programas graciosos, todo gratis! ______________________ Join Madison Children’s Museum for our annual Hispanic Heritage Celebration on Thursday, October 9, […]

Attend this discussion and workshop about art and the impact of incarceration with artist Maria Gaspar along with Dr. Robert S. Smith, Director of the Center for Urban Research Teaching & Outreach (CURTO), and members of the CURTO Education Preparedness Program staff. This public program features Maria’s “Disappearance Jail” project, currently on view, to invites […]

With more than 40 sets of larger-than-life lantern displays, Boerner Botanical Garden in Whitnall Park will be transformed into a magical forest for this 2025 season! Complimentary live stage entertainment is included in the admission daily. The performance hours are 6:30pm, 7:30pm, and 9:00pm. Each show lasts for about 30 minutes. Stage performance might be […]

Introducing VIRTUOSI LIVE! Presenting Global Artists. Close to Home. A new partnership with Brown County Civic Music Association and The Weidner that is music to your ears. Since 1927, the Brown County Civic Music Association has been a cornerstone of Green Bay’s cultural scene, presenting exceptional musical performances that feature both national and international touring […]

Full of wit, absurdity and sly social commentary, HMS Pinafore is a hilarious tale of love, honor and duty aboard a Royal Navy ship whimsically named after a woman’s garment. […]

Sarah Brailey, soprano | Clara Osowski, mezzo-soprano | Tomasz Lis, piano World premieres of new songs and cycles, completed this year, by one of the most important voices in American art song. Renowned over his long and distinguished career for his riveting interpretations of poetic texts, this concert presents new cycles on poetry of Fried, […]

Patton Oswalt continues to leave his distinctive imprint across all areas of entertainment, from his award-winning comedy specials to his many guest roles on television. His most recent comedy special We All Scream (which also marked his directorial debut) launched on Netflix last September and Oswalt was recently nominated for a Grammy for his comedy […]

**Every Friday through November** Cave of the Mounds is thrilled to announce the launch of its exclusive Blacklight & Brews Tour, an enchanting and unforgettable experience designed for adults. This unique 1-hour tour promises a captivating journey through the cave, illuminated by ultraviolet lights that reveal the dazzling beauty of fluorescent minerals and formations. One […]

In October, the veil between our world and the next grows thin at Old World Wisconsin… watch as supernatural tales brought from cultures the world over come to life before your very eyes for an eerie evening of Halloween-themed spook-tacular activities! Explore the historic Crossroads Village after nightfall for a spirited, one-of-a-kind adventure full of […]

With more than 40 sets of larger-than-life lantern displays, Boerner Botanical Garden in Whitnall Park will be transformed into a magical forest for this 2025 season! Complimentary live stage entertainment is included in the admission daily. The performance hours are 6:30pm, 7:30pm, and 9:00pm. Each show lasts for about 30 minutes. Stage performance might be […]

Sheng Wang is a comedian, actor and writer originally from Houston, TX. His first Netflix special, Sweet & Juicy, released in September 2022 and was produced and directed by Ali Wong. He was a featured stand-up on HBO’s “2 Dope Queens” special and also wrote for the ABC show “Fresh Off the Boat.” Sheng resides […]

Friday, October 10 CelticMKE Center, Wauwatosa 6:30 pm Doors | 7:00 pm Concert Tickets Pre-sale tickets: $25 (through Sept. 28) Regular on-sale tickets: $35 (available Sept. 29) Andy Irvine is one of the great Irish singers, his voice one of a handful of truly great ones that gets to the very soul of Ireland. He […]

Enter one of the most feared haunted woods in central Wisconsin. There is a place, far worse than any nightmare, and it’s now open to the public.

Dare to enter the most feared haunted woods in central Wisconsin? There is a place, far worse than any nightmare, and it’s now open to the public. Happens on the following Dates: Oct 4, 2025, 7:00pm to 11:00pm Timezone: Central Time (US & Canada) Oct 10, 2025, 7:00pm to 11:00pm Timezone: Central Time (US & […]

Minnesota’s Peter Mayer has been singing and songwriting full-time for 30 years, performing in venues across the United States and beyond. He writes songs for a small planet–songs about interconnectedness and the human journey–songs about life on earth and the mysterious and wondrous fact of our existence. He also writes songs about dress hats, pumpkins […]

Full of wit, absurdity and sly social commentary, HMS Pinafore is a hilarious tale of love, honor and duty aboard a Royal Navy ship whimsically named after a woman’s garment. […]

Join the UWM Wind Ensemble for their first concert of the season. The Wind Ensemble is the premier concert band in the Peck School of the Arts and has been […]

Endeavor is a bold exploration of the relentless pursuit of excellence. It’s only fitting that the third installment of the Musical Landscapes in Color project features living Black American composers whose works span nearly three decades of innovation. From Regina Harris Baiocchi’s evocative Muse for Orchestra to the world premiere of Madison local Autumn Maria […]

Enjoy a spectacular show at the La Crosse Community Theatre! In Ken Ludwig’s Lend me a Tenor, Saunders, the general manager of the Cleveland Grand Opera Company, is primed to welcome world-famous singer Tito Merelli, known as II Stupendo. The greatest tenor of his generation set to appear for one night only, as the star […]

A New New Orleans jazz/Dixieland band with players you will recognize. So Fun! 7:30pm, Doors 6:45pm

The folk duo Leafy Greens, featuring Ben Doran on hammered dulcimer and vocals and Lisa Johnson on guitar, Autochord, bowed psaltery and vocals, return to the Hog for an evening of traditional, original and contemporary songs with vocal harmonies and instrumental tunes in the folk and Celtic genres.

The Wisconsin Baroque Ensemble invites you to a concert of baroque chamber music. Friday October 10 at 7:30 PM St Andrew’s Episcopal church 1833 Regent Street, Madison tickets at the door only: $20 (students $10) Nathan Giglierano – baroque violin Eric Miller – viola da gamba Anton TenWolde – baroque cello Geoffrey Williams – countertenor […]

Dracula: A Feminist Revenge Fantasy By Kate Hamill Based Loosely on the Novel by Bram Stoker Directed by Mary Trotter Bouncing between horror and humor, Kate Hamill’s adaptation of Bram Stoker’s seminal novel is a thrilling play that questions who the true monsters are. When your survival is at stake…will you be able to distinguish […]

Join us on a musical journey from your first day in the valley all the way to your arrival to the summit, with the brand new Stardew Valley concert Symphony of Seasons! Curated by ConcernedApe, Symphony of Seasons features a 35-piece orchestra performing the most memorable music from the game, and a screen above the […]

Join us for the annual Spooky Sprint 5k/10k & Half Marathon! A fun, Halloween-themed event that is perfect for the whole family. The fun includes – Great Swag – designer shirt & custom medal Chip-timing with live results and awards Free photos Delicious Treats waiting at the finish line Plenty of fun! Grab your friends […]

It’s fall in the Kettle Moraine! Celebrate this most colorful time of the year with traditional autumnal activities fit for the whole family. Try your hand at pumpkin carving, apple pressing and festive games like Snap Apple before heading over to the candlelit Herrling Sawmill. There, you’ll hear both the rumble of an up-and-down water-powered […]

Spooky Season is almost here and the Caramel Crisp Bookstore is so very ready to celebrate all things curious and creepy!  Join us on Saturday and Sunday, October 11th and 12th, for a gathering of writers and artists of the spooky sort!  Both days of the event will feature authors who write the stories that […]

Winterberry Art and Gift Show will once again be held at Klein’s Floral and Greenhouses. Looking for unique one-of-a-kind gifts to give others or for yourself? Start your holiday shopping with this boutique show. Local artists will be set up inside the gorgeous greenhouses at Klein’s on the east side of Madison. Paintings, Fiber, Glass, […]

Interested in what goes on behind the scenes at a stately manor? This tour of Villa Louis presents a more in-depth look at the Dousman family and their home and […]

Back by popular demand! Based on Dahl’s beloved classic, this captivating musical follows a brilliant little girl with extraordinary powers who refuses to let her cruel parents or a tyrannical headmistress hold her back. Armed with a sharp mind, a vivid imagination, and a bit of magic, Matilda dares to take a stand and rewrite […]

Get ready for an interactive show full of crowd favorites, raffle baskets, and games. Whether you’re clapping or singing along, this is one night you won’t want to miss! Proceeds from the event go towards Creative Community Living Services mission to provide high-quality services and supports to adults with disabilities throughout Wisconsin. The show will […]

With more than 40 sets of larger-than-life lantern displays, Boerner Botanical Garden in Whitnall Park will be transformed into a magical forest for this 2025 season! Complimentary live stage entertainment is included in the admission daily. The performance hours are 6:30pm, 7:30pm, and 9:00pm. Each show lasts for about 30 minutes. Stage performance might be […]

In October, the veil between our world and the next grows thin at Old World Wisconsin… watch as supernatural tales brought from cultures the world over come to life before your very eyes for an eerie evening of Halloween-themed spook-tacular activities! Explore the historic Crossroads Village after nightfall for a spirited, one-of-a-kind adventure full of […]

Born twenty years and sixty miles apart in southwest Wisconsin, Frank Lloyd Wright and Georgia O’Keeffe were deeply influenced by the unique landscapes of the late-nineteenth century Midwest. Friends for many years, O’Keeffe and Wright’s only documented meeting was at Taliesin in 1942 — an experience that helped inspire a painting O’Keeffe later gifted to […]

On Black Hawk Folk Society’s Second Saturday Concert line-up for October: Crowe’s Pasture. Monique Byrne and Andy Rogovin are this duo’s musical genius. Their music is sometimes joyful, sometimes wistful, or poignant, but always seasoned with a mutual passion for life, family, and humanity, via blended vocals and a “banjo-guitar romance.” Evening begins with an […]

A rare talent who has garnered mass appeal at a young age, Taylor Tomlinson has continued to receive praise from fans and critics alike, with Rolling Stone commending her for “conquering comedy” and CNN welcoming “the era of Taylor Tomlinson.” Variety recently honored her with their Creative Impact in Comedy Award, which follows her inclusion […]

Iliza Shlesinger has cemented herself as one of the world’s premiere stand-up comedians. On March 11th, Shlesinger will release her 7th special, Iliza Shlesinger: A Different Animal, globally on Amazon Prime Video. An explosive and relentlessly funny hour, Iliza covers everything from shower sex, ugly wives and the ideal man to the truth about the […]

Haydn and Beethoven: Foundations and Revolutions Enjoy musical brilliance as Wisconsin’s own critically acclaimed Pro Arte Quartet takes the stage in a stirring celebration of masterful string quartet repertoire. This inspiring concert brings together the elegance of Haydn’s String Quartet in C Major, Op. 50, No. 2, the poignant beauty of George Walker’s Lyric for […]

Embrace the comfort of home. Immerse yourself in the warm embrace of Edward Elgar’s Cello Concerto, performed by Oshkosh’s own, virtuosic Dr. Katherine Decker. One of the world’s most beloved concertos, it will soothe your soul. Hear the profound emotion of Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s cherished ballet Swan Lake. Journey through the enchanting soundscapes of Nikolai […]

Back by popular demand! Based on Dahl’s beloved classic, this captivating musical follows a brilliant little girl with extraordinary powers who refuses to let her cruel parents or a tyrannical headmistress hold her back. Armed with a sharp mind, a vivid imagination, and a bit of magic, Matilda dares to take a stand and rewrite […]

Dare to enter the most feared haunted woods in central Wisconsin? There is a place, far worse than any nightmare, and it’s now open to the public. Happens on the following Dates: Oct 4, 2025, 7:00pm to 11:00pm Timezone: Central Time (US & Canada) Oct 10, 2025, 7:00pm to 11:00pm Timezone: Central Time (US & […]

Iconic comedian known for her sharp wit and spontaneous, observational humor. Iconic comedian Paula Poundstone is known for her smart, observational humor and a spontaneous wit that has become the stuff of legend. She regularly plays theaters across the country, hosts a weekly comedy podcast, Nobody Listens to Paula Poundstone, and is a regular panelist […]

The Central Wisconsin Symphony Orchestra kicks off their “Bold Voices” season with a performance full of powerful and poignant music – starting with a world premiere by Stevens Point native Lorre Lynn Trytten. Another homegrown talent, Robert Heitzinger, joins the CWSO to narrate Aaron Copland’s iconic “Lincoln Portrait.” Tickets: Adults – $40 Seniors – $35 […]

Full of wit, absurdity and sly social commentary, HMS Pinafore is a hilarious tale of love, honor and duty aboard a Royal Navy ship whimsically named after a woman’s garment. […]

Music has the power to tell stories that words alone cannot express. Join the Racine Symphony Orchestra for a profound and moving performance featuring the Violins of Hope, a collection of instruments once played by Jewish musicians during the Holocaust. These violins, restored and brought back to life, now serve as powerful symbols of resilience, […]

For many years, guitarist/singer-songwriter John Plankenhorn and vocalist Carole Ferrara have been captivating audiences with rich, passionate vocals, seamless harmonies and soulful guitar artistry. Grounded in Blues, R&B, and American roots music, they bring a fresh, original style that truly resonates with their audience. Known as a Milwaukee-based duo named electri-violet, John and Carole have […]

Enjoy a spectacular show at the La Crosse Community Theatre! In Ken Ludwig’s Lend me a Tenor, Saunders, the general manager of the Cleveland Grand Opera Company, is primed to welcome world-famous singer Tito Merelli, known as II Stupendo. The greatest tenor of his generation set to appear for one night only, as the star […]

Dracula: A Feminist Revenge Fantasy By Kate Hamill Based Loosely on the Novel by Bram Stoker Directed by Mary Trotter Bouncing between horror and humor, Kate Hamill’s adaptation of Bram Stoker’s seminal novel is a thrilling play that questions who the true monsters are. When your survival is at stake…will you be able to distinguish […]

Last Podcast on the Left barrels headlong into all things horror — as hosts Marcus Parks, Henry Zebrowski and Ed Larson cover dark subjects spanning Jeffrey Dahmer, werewolves, Jonestown, iconic hauntings, the history of war crimes, and more. Whether it’s cults, killers, or cryptid encounters, Last Podcast on the Left laughs into the abyss that […]