🎡 Your festival lineup for August

🗳️ Madison’s Drop Boxes Get Makeover

• Have you noticed some changes to the ballot drop boxes around the city? The 14 boxes are getting a much-needed makeover after the Wisconsin Supreme Court decided to allow their use again.
• They now include a QR code that will help folks access the MyVote Wisconsin website to track the status of their absentee ballot.
• The boxes aren’t operable yet, but they will be soon so stay tuned for when they open for use.
• Listen up: The primary election is right around the corner, here is what you need to know. [City of Madison, City Cast Madison 🎧]

♀️ What’s Next For A Woman’s Touch?

• After nearly three decades, A Woman’s Touch Sexuality Resource Center is for sale. The shop, located right off Willy Street, provided education and products for sexual health and well-being.
• The current owner, Ellen Barnard, is a social worker and a sex educator. She wanted to create a comfortable place where women could explore and celebrate their sexuality. [IB Magazine]

💵 Costs of Child Care on the Rise

• A new Wisconsin Department of Children and Families survey showed that childcare costs in Dane County have increased. From 2022 to 2023, the price increased by around 9% to 15%, depending on the age group and care type.
• Child care can cost more than college, taking up 18% to 36% of a family's median household income.
• Next summer, a state subsidy for childcare providers is set to end, raising even more concerns about increasing costs.
• Related: Where are Madison’s best summer spots for kids outside childcare locations? [Cap Times, City Cast Madison 🎧]

August in Madison is full of festivals for every interest. Whether you're craving delicious food, eager to catch diverse music performances, or searching for fun activities for the kids, there’s something for you. We’ve wrapped up 15 festivals for you to hit up this month.

Wisconsin State Fair: While it isn’t in Madison, the Wisconsin State Fair is always a must. This huge event is from Aug. 1-11 in West Allis. Check out different rides, fried food you couldn’t imagine, petting zoos, and more.

North Star Fest: On Aug. 3, North Star Fest will take over Pocket Park. There will be live music, food vendors, and a 50/50 raffle. There are also a ton of events for kids including crafts, an obstacle course, and more.

Madison Night Market: Aug. 8 will be another one of Madison’s Thursday night markets. With vendors all along State Street and around Capitol Square, you can get everything from food to vintage clothing.

Africa Fest: On Aug. 17, Africa Fest will be at McPike Park. This free festival will take place from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. and is put on by the Africa Association of Madison. Their goal is to emphasize diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Really Really Free Market: On Library Mall, Aug. 17, the Really Really Free Market will return, focusing on mutual aid. They accept items like period products, toiletries, and bedding, but no clothing. Masks are required.

Madison Taco & Margarita Fest: The Alliant Energy Center will host this festival with tacos and margs as far as the eye can see on Aug. 17. You can also catch some live pro wrestling while enjoying your margarita and tacos.

Coffee Break Festival: Stoughton will have its 24th annual Coffee Break Festival Aug. 17 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. This event includes a coffee brew-off, Cup O’ Joe All Wheels Show, crafts, and more.

Eken Park Festival: Aug. 17 will be the annual Eken Park Festival. From 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., enjoy five different musical artists along with plenty of food vendors. This festival will take place at the 700 block of Mayer Ave.

What To Expect from the 4th Annual Strip Mall Carnival

Have you ever eaten four burgers in three minutes? What about lifted more than 600 pounds? Madison personal trainer Mike Onsrud has done both and he has the trophies to prove it. As the reigning burger-eating champ of the annual Strip Mall Carnival at the Muskellounge, host Bianca Martin caught up with Mike to get a look at what folks can expect from the Aug. 4 festival and how he personally balances eating healthy while indulging in Madison’s food scene.