Plaza Categories – The Edgewater Hotel

Upcoming Events (Plaza)

People on the pier

Sundays of Summer Brunch on the Grand Plaza

June 14

Join us for our Sundays of Summer brunch series on the Grand Plaza. Celebrate the weekend with an alfresco dining experience featuring breathtaking views of Lake Mendota. Every second Sunday of the month, enjoy a special prix-fixe menu crafted with fresh, local ingredients. Gather friends and family to soak in the sunshine and savor seasonal flavors.

People on the pier

Sundays of Summer Brunch on the Grand Plaza

July 12

Experience the perfect weekend celebration at our Sundays of Summer Brunch Series on the Grand Plaza. Enjoy alfresco dining with stunning views of Lake Mendota while savoring a seasonal three-course menu crafted from fresh, local ingredients. Join us every second Sunday through October for delicious dishes and sunshine. Book your tickets today for this unforgettable experience.

People on the pier

Sundays of Summer Brunch on the Grand Plaza

August 9

Join us for our signature Sundays of Summer brunch series held on the beautiful Grand Plaza. Enjoy a curated three-course meal featuring local seasonal ingredients while taking in stunning views of Lake Mendota. Gather your friends and family for an unforgettable alfresco dining experience. Book your tickets now for our upcoming August event date today.

People on the pier

Sundays of Summer Brunch on the Grand Plaza

September 13

Join us for our Sundays of Summer brunch series on the Grand Plaza. Celebrate the weekend with an alfresco dining experience featuring breathtaking views of Lake Mendota. Every second Sunday of the month, enjoy a special prix-fixe menu of seasonal dishes. Gather your friends and family to soak in the sunshine and local summer flavors.

People on the pier

Sundays of Summer Brunch on the Grand Plaza

October 11

Join us for our Sundays of Summer brunch series on The Grand Plaza. Celebrate the weekend with an alfresco dining experience featuring breathtaking views of Lake Mendota. Every second Sunday of the month, we offer a special seasonal menu filled with fresh, local ingredients. Reserve your spot to soak in the sunshine and seasonal flavors.

Past Events (Plaza)

A group of people practicing yoga outdoors by the water, with mats in various colors and a scenic view of the lake.

Sunset Yoga on The Grand Plaza

June 4

Kick off your summer with a soulful sunset yoga flow on The Grand Plaza at The Edgewater. Join us on June 4th for an evening of stretching and relaxation set to the timeless tunes of The Beatles and Bob Marley. This free event welcomes everyone to enjoy the beautiful scenery of Lake Mendota while we breathe together.

Group of friends in sunglasses enjoying a waterfront event, holding drinks, with a crowd and boats in the background.

2026 Madison Derby Party at The Edgewater

May 2

Join us on May 2nd at The Edgewater for Madison’s 9th Annual Kentucky Derby Party. Enjoy live music from The Big Payback and VO5, classic lawn games, and delicious Southern-inspired bites. This free public event benefits Friends of UW Health, so wear your best derby hat and come ready to celebrate the most exciting race day.

Crowds skate on a frozen lake, with buildings and banners in the background, featuring the text "FROZEN ASSETS."

Frozen Assets Festival 2026

February 7 - February 8

Join the 14th Annual Frozen Assets Festival on February 7 and 8 at The Edgewater in Madison. This free, family-friendly event on Lake Mendota features kite demonstrations, skydiving, ice skating, snowshoeing, and the annual 5K Run/Walk. Help support local water quality projects while enjoying a weekend of winter fun and community activities on ice.

Silhouette in front of lit christmas tree

Holiday Tree Lighting

November 28, 2025

Kick off the festive season at our 11th Annual Holiday Tree Lighting on November 28, 2025. This magical evening at The Edgewater features roller-skating elves, an interactive gingerbread wonderland, live performances, and family-friendly activities. Join us from 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm for this free public event and celebrate with a spectacular tree lighting ceremony.

People on the pier

“Sunday of Summer” Brunch on the Grand Plaza

October 12, 2025

Join us for the Sundays of Summer brunch series at The Grand Plaza. Enjoy an exquisite three-course seasonal menu while taking in stunning views of Lake Mendota. Our alfresco dining experience features fresh, local ingredients and specialty beverages. Perfect for gathering with friends and family to celebrate the weekend in the heart of Madison, Wisconsin.

People clanking mugs of beer

2025 Oktoberfest

October 3, 2025

Oktoberfest returns to The Grand Plaza on October 3, 2025! Join us from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm for an evening of authentic German food, refreshing beverages, and live music from The Rhythm Playboys. This public event is free to attend, featuring traditional favorites like schnitzel, beer brats, and pretzels. We hope to see you there

People on the pier

“Sunday of Summer” Brunch on the Grand Plaza

August 10, 2025

Join us for the Sundays of Summer brunch series on the Grand Plaza. Enjoy a delightful three-course alfresco meal featuring fresh, local ingredients while taking in breathtaking views of Lake Mendota. Every second Sunday, we celebrate the season with inspired dishes and specialty beverages. Perfect for gathering with friends and family under the summer sun.

People on the pier

“Sunday of Summer” Brunch on the Grand Plaza

July 13, 2025

Join us for the Sundays of Summer brunch series on the Grand Plaza. Enjoy alfresco dining with stunning views of Lake Mendota while savoring a fresh three-course seasonal menu. Whether gathering with friends or family, it is the perfect way to soak in the sunshine and celebrate the season on select Sundays through October.

People gathered on the grand plaza

Fourth Fest 2025

July 4, 2025

Celebrate Independence Day at The Edgewater for our annual Fourth Fest on July 4, 2025. Enjoy an afternoon of live music with The People Brothers Band and Natty Nation, thrilling water ski performances on Lake Mendota, and a dedicated Kid Zone featuring balloon art and crafts. Join us for a day of patriotic family fun.

People on the pier

“Sunday of Summer” Brunch on the Grand Plaza

June 8, 2025

Join us for our Sundays of Summer brunch series on the Grand Plaza. Experience alfresco dining with breathtaking views of Lake Mendota. Every second Sunday of the month, enjoy a special seasonal menu featuring fresh, local ingredients. Whether with friends or family, come soak in the sunshine and savor the flavors of the summer season.

Group of friends in sunglasses enjoying a waterfront event, holding drinks, with a crowd and boats in the background.

2025 Madison Derby Party at The Edgewater

May 3, 2025

Join us at The Edgewater on May 3 for the 8th Annual Madison Derby Party. Enjoy live music from Mama Digdown’s Brass Band and The Big Payback, play classic lawn games, and enter our raffle to support Friends of UW Health. Dress to impress for our style contest and celebrate racing tradition with mint juleps.

Crowd enjoying winter activities on a frozen lake, with buildings and banners in the background, under a clear sky.

Frozen Assets Festival 2025

February 8, 2025

Join Clean Lakes Alliance at The Edgewater on February 8, 2025, for the 13th Annual Frozen Assets Festival. This free, family-friendly event features ice skating, the 5K Run/Walk, snowshoeing, live science demonstrations, and much more on beautiful Lake Mendota. Come celebrate winter and learn about our local lakes with tons of fun activities for everyone.

Festive design featuring "Run Santa Run" text, holiday decorations, mittens, and a Santa hat, promoting The Edgewater event.

North Pole Post-Race Party

December 21, 2024

Celebrate the completion of the Run Santa Run 5K at the North Pole Post-Race Party on December 21. Join us at The Edgewater from 3:30 pm to 6:30 pm for complimentary drinks, festive music by DJ Jolly on the Grand Plaza, ice skating, holiday snacks, and beautiful lakeside light displays to continue the cheer.

Colorful holiday tree with sparkling lights, promoting the 10th annual tree lighting event at The Edgewater.

Holiday Tree Lighting

November 29, 2024

Kick off the holiday season with our 10th Annual Holiday Tree Lighting on Friday November 29. Join us for a magical evening of festive performances, family activities, and community joy. The event is free and open to the public, featuring live music, local entertainment, and a special visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus at sunset.

Elegant brunch invitation with green and white stripes, featuring details about the event at Edgewater Grand Plaza.

SOLD OUT — Sunday Brunch on the Grand Plaza

October 13, 2024

Our upcoming Sunday Brunch on the Grand Plaza is officially sold out. Guests will enjoy a seasonal four-course menu featuring autumn flavors like squash bisque and harvest quiche while taking in stunning views of Lake Mendota. We look forward to welcoming everyone for this delicious alfresco experience, or moving festivities indoors should weather require.

Two clinking beer mugs with frothy tops, surrounded by festive Oktoberfest-themed icons and the event title.

Oktoberfest

October 4, 2024

Join us on the Grand Plaza this Friday, October 4th, for an authentic Oktoberfest celebration. Enjoy live performances by The Rhythm Boys and the New Glarus Jodler Club while savoring traditional German dishes like Schnitzel on a Stick, fresh pretzels, and hearty beer brats. Admission is free and open to the public for all ages.

Elegant brunch invitation featuring floral designs, detailing the event at Edgewater Grand Plaza on September 8th.

SOLD OUT – “Sunday of Summer” Brunch on the Grand Plaza

September 8, 2024

Thank you for the overwhelming interest in our Sunday of Summer brunch series. We have officially reached capacity for our September 8 event on the Grand Plaza. Guests will enjoy a curated menu featuring crab cake benedict and chocolate babka while taking in scenic views of Lake Mendota. We look forward to hosting you.

Dining tables and chairs set up under a tent on the grand plaza

SOLD OUT “Sunday of Summer” Brunch on the Grand Plaza

August 11, 2024

Our exclusive Sunday of Summer brunch series on the Grand Plaza is officially sold out. Guests will enjoy alfresco dining with stunning views of Lake Mendota, featuring delicious seasonal offerings and bottomless mimosas. Thank you to everyone who reserved a spot for this premier lakefront event. We look forward to hosting you on August 11.

Dining tables and chairs set up under a tent on the grand plaza

Sold Out “Sunday of Summer” Brunch on the Grand Plaza

June 9, 2024

Experience the charm of our Sunday of Summer brunch series on the Grand Plaza. Enjoy alfresco dining with stunning views of Lake Mendota. While our June 9 date is officially sold out, mark your calendars for upcoming events on July 14, August 11, and September 8 to secure your spot for a delightful seasonal celebration.

dining tables on the grand plaza

SOLD OUT Mother’s Day Brunch on the Grand Plaza

May 12, 2024

Our Mother Day Brunch on the Grand Plaza is officially sold out. Guests will enjoy a delicious alfresco dining experience overlooking Lake Mendota as part of our Sunday of Summer event series. Stay tuned for future dates throughout the summer months as we continue to host seasonal brunches featuring local ingredients and beautiful lakeside views for all.

Colorful hats in various styles, featuring pink, black, and white elements, adorned with feathers and ribbons.

2024 Madison Derby Party at The Edgewater

May 4, 2024

Join us at The Edgewater on May 4 for Madison’s 7th Annual Kentucky Derby Party. Enjoy live jazz, lawn games, and southern-inspired fare on the Grand Plaza. Support Friends of UW Health while celebrating race day with Mint Juleps and great company. Dress to impress for our best hat competition and experience the derby in style.

Kites on Lake Mendota in front of The Edgewater Hotel

Frozen Assets Festival 2024

February 3, 2024

Join the 12th annual Frozen Assets Festival on February 3rd at The Edgewater. Enjoy a day of free winter fun, including ice skating, science demonstrations, movies, and hot chocolate. This community event celebrates our local lakes while raising essential funds to protect water quality through the Clean Lakes Alliance mission. All are welcome to attend.

People participating in the 5k walk and run on frozen Lake Mendota

Frozen Assets 5k Run/Walk

February 3, 2024

Join us on February 3rd for the Frozen Assets 5K event at The Edgewater. Due to ice conditions, we have updated the event to Madison's largest winter workout featuring a Barre3 session. Pick up your t-shirt, enjoy a complimentary drink, and support lake water quality. Registration is open for a morning of strength and community.

Skaters glide on a lit ice rink surrounded by festive trees, with a grand dome building illuminated in the background.

Night ICE 2024

February 2, 2024

Join us for Night ICE 2024 at The Edgewater on February 2. Skate under the stars to energetic beats by DJ Nick Nice as the ice rink transforms into a colorful, moonlit nightclub experience. Perfect for all skill levels, this event kicks off the Frozen Assets Festival weekend. Grab your tickets today for this unforgettable evening.

Skater gliding on ice, wearing white skates and blue jeans, with blurred figures and lights in the background.

New Years Eve at The Ice Rink

December 31, 2023

Join us for a magical New Years Eve celebration at The Ice Rink on December 31 from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm. Gather your friends and family for an unforgettable evening of skating under the lights as we ring in the new year together at The Edgewater. It is the perfect holiday tradition for everyone.

Runners in festive attire sprint toward a large "FINISH" banner at a holiday-themed race event.

North Pole Post-Race Party

December 16, 2023

Celebrate the Run Santa Run 5K at The Edgewater on December 16. Join our North Pole Post-Race Party for drinks, holiday hits with DJ Jolly, and skating on the plaza. Whether you want to warm up with hot cocoa, enjoy craft cocktails, or explore the Lights on the Lake experience, it is the perfect holiday celebration.

Mendota Live Music Fest poster featuring vibrant rays, musical notes, and event details for July 29, 2023, at Edgewater.

Mendota Live Music Fest

July 29, 2023

Join us on July 29 at the Music Plaza to celebrate 75 years of live music at The Edgewater. The Mendota Live Music Fest is a free public event featuring the legendary Preservation Hall Jazz Band alongside top Madison talents like Natty Nation, Panchromatic Steel, and The Jimmys. Come celebrate this new annual summer tradition.

View of The Edgewater from Lake Mendota

Fourth Fest 2023

July 4, 2023

Celebrate Independence Day at The Edgewater's annual Fourth Fest on July 4, 2023. From 2:00 pm to 9:00 pm, enjoy a full day of live music, family-friendly activities, and spectacular water shows by the Mad City Water Ski Team on Lake Mendota. Book your stay now to save 25% on your holiday weekend getaway today.

Group of friends in sunglasses enjoying drinks on a balcony overlooking a lively waterfront event with a crowd below.

2023 Madison Derby Party at The Edgewater

May 6, 2023

Experience the ultimate Kentucky Derby celebration at The Edgewater in Madison. Join us for a day of live jazz, race day games, and delicious southern fare. Dress in your finest derby attire for a chance to win our best hat competition. All proceeds from raffles and games support the important work of CATCH community programs.

Skaters glide on a lit ice rink surrounded by festive trees, with a grand dome building illuminated in the background.

Frozen Assets: Friday Night Brewgrass

February 3, 2023

The Edgewater is Madison's premier destination for community entertainment and live music. We are thrilled to host our popular Brewgrass Fridays concert series throughout the summer months. From live bluegrass bands to beautiful lakeside views, there is no better way to spend your weekend. Explore our full calendar of upcoming local events today.

Silhouetted palm trees against a vibrant purple and orange sunset over calm ocean waters.

Frozen Assets: Tropical Tuesday

January 31, 2023

Escape the winter chill at our Tropical Tuesday event on the ice. Join us for live ice sculpting, island music, and refreshing summer-inspired cocktails at The Boathouse. Grab a lei and enjoy Hawaiian pizza while listening to the sounds of Toco Beach Steelpan. It is the perfect island getaway right on Lake Mendota.

Intricate ice sculpture of a train with "The Edgewater" sign, surrounded by festive trees adorned with lights.

Frozen Assets: Sunday Funday

January 29, 2023

Join us for a spectacular Sunday Funday on January 29th at The Edgewater. Lace up your skates for a session on the Culinary Ice Rink, indulge in a delicious brunch at The Statehouse, or catch all the action of the NFL Championship games during our lively watch party at the Boathouse. See you there.

Frozen Assets Festival

Frozen Assets Week

January 28, 2023 - February 5, 2023

Join Clean Lakes Alliance and The Edgewater for the annual Frozen Assets festival from January 28 to February 5, 2023. This nine-day event celebrates our local lakes through unique experiences, ice skating, live music, and professional sculpting. Support water quality improvement projects while enjoying fun community activities throughout the week at the iconic Edgewater hotel.