FESTIVAL TIME! The 44th annual Madison Street Festival will be held Saturday in Madison’s historic downtown

MADISON – Parade units are prepared to march. Musicians are in the wings. Artisan crafters and visual artists are prepared to show their creations. Non-profit volunteers and business owners are eager to discuss their services. No doubt, Madison Street Festival or MSF is ready to roll.

Madison Street Festival’s date and time will be Saturday, Oct. 3 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Historic downtown Madison will serve as the venue for the 44th annual Madison Street Festival — a FREE, family-friendly tradition celebrating our community and the arrival of fall, MSF President Crystal McBrayer said.

Founded in 1976, MSF will celebrate its 50th birthday this year (in a few years, formidable circumstances caused cancellations, like the COVID-19 pandemic).

“MSF invites you to spend the day exploring hundreds of vendors, featuring local businesses, talented artists and artisans, live entertainment, performing arts, delicious food, Sponsor Row, community organizations and interactive Children’s Area and Teen Area,” McBrayer said. “From shopping and creating to discovering everything our amazing downtown has to offer. There’s truly something for everyone.”

After fulfilling all time-demanding requirements, Madison Street Festival now operates as a 501(c)3 organization. MSF’s outreach will motivate and support students of all ages and abilities by providing access to education and educational programs. The committee will accomplish this commitment by providing (but not limited to) funding generated by the festival:

• Grants – This annual pledge for assistance will award requested funds to teachers or other interests with educational programs.

• Literacy – The MSF Committee supports community programs that promote reading skills for all youth.

Arriving and departing the festival is a breeze. MSF’s FREE shuttle service operates from Crosspointe Church, 78 Hughes Road and Madison City Schools Stadium, 211 Celtic Drive. Assisted- ride buses also are available.

If you prefer to walk, festivalgoers can park at the stadium and take a short walk to the festival entrance downtown on Wise Street. Arrive early and don’t miss the kickoff at 9 a.m. with the MSF Parade.

During the parade and street closures (approximately 8:45 to 10 a.m.), the CrossPointe Church shuttle route will be redirected to the Wise Street drop-off location. If you’re returning to Crosspointe during this time, board the shuttle at the Maple Street Shuttle Stop (at Fellowship of Faith Church). Immediately following the parade, MSF President Crystal McBrayer will emcee Opening Ceremonies on the Community Showcase Stage on Church Street.

Music, specialty foods, shopping and thousands of smiling faces will fill Madison’s downtown. “However, before festival day arrives, the 2026 MSF Planning Committee spends months in meetings, organizing, fundraising, recruiting sponsors, coordinating vendors, collaborating with local businesses, working alongside the City of Madison and managing countless details so our community can enjoy a free day together,” McBrayer said.

The MSF Board of Directors includes President Crystal McBrayer; Secretary Megan Moore; Treasurer Kathy Morris; and Logistics Director Michael McBrayer.

“They are your neighbors, friends, business owners, parents and dedicated volunteers, united by one goal: creating an amazing day for YOU,” McBrayer said.

On Oct. 3, the MSF Planning Committee will be visible throughout the festival in their red-white-and-blue shirts. “Committee members will be there to answer questions, solve problems and help keep the festival running smoothly,” McBrayer said.

In addition, more than 200 people wearing bright orange shirts will serve as Festival Day Volunteers. “They will help with everything from setup and parking to information booths and children’s activities,” McBrayer said. “Together, these volunteers are the heart of Madison Street Festival.”

“To every Planning Committee member and Festival Day volunteer — thank you for your dedication, passion and countless volunteer hours. We couldn’t do it without you,” McBrayer said.

“Plan your day and explore the festival. We can’t wait to welcome everyone to historic downtown Madison on Saturday, Oct. 3 for the 44th annual Madison Street Festival!” she said. #MSF2026 Madison Street Festival – Saturday, October 3 — 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. madisonstreetfestival. org