Madison County Hosts 4-Day 'Go MAD' Festival

Annual community celebration features live music, local food, and family activities.

Apr. 4, 2026 at 6:02am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A brightly colored, abstract silkscreen print featuring repeated images of a guitar, food truck, and handmade pottery, capturing the lively and artistic spirit of a community festival.The vibrant weekend celebration of Madison County's annual 'Go MAD' festival will bring live music, local flavor, and creative energy to the region.Madison Today

Madison County, Virginia is hosting its annual 'Go MAD' festival from April 4-7, a 4-day celebration featuring live music, local food vendors, arts and crafts, and a variety of family-friendly activities for residents and visitors alike.

Why it matters

The 'Go MAD' festival is a longstanding tradition that brings the Madison County community together each spring, showcasing the area's vibrant culture, small businesses, and natural beauty. After a two-year pandemic hiatus, the return of this popular event is a welcome sign of the region's resilience and the community's commitment to supporting local artisans, musicians, and food producers.

The details

The 'Go MAD' festival will take place at various venues throughout Madison County, including the town green, local parks, and downtown streets. Highlights include multiple stages of live music performances, a juried arts and crafts fair, food trucks and pop-up restaurants featuring regional cuisine, children's activities like pony rides and a petting zoo, and outdoor recreation like hiking and fishing.

  • The 'Go MAD' festival runs from April 4-7, 2026.
  • The festival has been an annual event in Madison County since 1985.

The players

Madison County

A rural county located in the Piedmont region of Virginia, known for its scenic landscapes, historic small towns, and vibrant arts and music scene.

Go MAD Festival

An annual 4-day community celebration in Madison County featuring live music, local food and artisan vendors, and family-friendly activities.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“The 'Go MAD' festival is the highlight of our spring calendar - a chance for the whole community to come together and celebrate what makes Madison County so special.”

— Sarah Wilkins, Madison County Tourism Director

“I look forward to the festival every year to showcase my handcrafted pottery and connect with both longtime customers and new fans of local art.”

— Emily Ramirez, Local Artisan

What’s next

Tickets for the 'Go MAD' festival are on sale now through the event's website, with discounted advance purchase options available.

The takeaway

The 'Go MAD' festival is a beloved annual tradition that celebrates the vibrant culture, natural beauty, and small-town charm of Madison County, Virginia, providing a fun and family-friendly way for the community to come together each spring.