5. Art Fair on the Square

The Buzz -- Benefiting the Madison Museum of Contemporary Art, this venerated event is a summertime mainstay and is regularly attended by more than 200,000 visitors. The juried show features hundreds of artists and a range of genres, including sculpture, jewelry, woodworking, painting, ceramics, and photography. Live bands perform on two stages, and kids' activities keep little ones happy and occupied. Plus, there's plenty of food to munch on, and beer is available.