Events

Opera in the Park
Opera lovers arrive in droves (12,500 attended last year) at the crack of dawn to lay claim to their lawn space. A vibrant mosaic of blankets, picnic suppers, friends, families and world-class opera follows. The Madison Opera Chorus, Madison Symphony Orchestra and four international guest artists preview Madison Opera's upcoming season, belt out the best of Broadway and enchant with other opera favorites. Summer in Madison at its best. Showtime 8p. Free. Garner Park, corner of Rosa and Mineral Point Roads. 238-8085, madisonopera.org

Atwood Summerfest
Never mind that other Summerfest—everyone knows Madison east siders throw the best outdoor live music party. A steady stream of local and national acts play the Harmony Bar Blues Stage and Maximum Ink Rock Stage. Festival food is dished up by vendors from all over Madison and beyond. Kids can romp around with painted faces in the customary blow-up castles, while the grownups savor an ice-cold local beverage with their favorite local band. 12-7p. Free. 2000 and 2100 blocks of Atwood Avenue. 241-1574 x30, goodmancenter.org