9. Taste of Madison

The Buzz -- Culinary types swoon each year when it's time for this much-anticipated event. Set up around Capitol Square are stands representing more than sixty of Madison's most familiar restaurants. Folks can – for just a few dollars at each – sample signature dishes such as barbecue, jerk chicken, bratwursts, green curries, key lime pie, and all sorts of other items. Beer, wine, and soda are available, and four stages offer live entertainment. Visitors will also find a waiters' race and plenty of kid-friendly activities.