Madison County Hosts Annual 'Go MAD' Festival

Three-day celebration of local arts, music, and community kicks off this weekend.

Apr. 7, 2026 at 3:01pm

A vibrant, abstract silkscreen illustration featuring repeated icons of a guitar, paintbrush, and coffee mug, conveying the creative energy and community spirit of an arts and music festival.The 'Go MAD' festival returns to Madison County, Virginia this weekend, celebrating the region's thriving arts, music, and small business community.Madison Today

The annual 'Go MAD' festival is returning to Madison County, Virginia this weekend, April 7-9. The three-day event features live music, artisan vendors, family-friendly activities, and other celebrations of the region's vibrant arts and culture scene.

Why it matters

The 'Go MAD' festival is a beloved annual tradition that brings the Madison County community together to showcase its thriving creative industries and small businesses. After a two-year pandemic hiatus, the return of this popular event is seen as an important milestone in the area's post-COVID recovery and a chance to reignite local pride.

The details

This year's 'Go MAD' festival will include over 25 musical acts performing on multiple stages, an artisan market with 50 local vendors, food trucks, a 5K run, children's activities like face painting and pony rides, and more. The event is organized by the Madison County Chamber of Commerce and supported by numerous local sponsors.

  • The 'Go MAD' festival runs from Friday, April 7 through Sunday, April 9, 2026.
  • The festival kicks off on Friday evening with a concert and opening ceremony.
  • Saturday and Sunday will feature the full slate of music, vendors, and family activities from 10am to 6pm each day.

The players

Madison County Chamber of Commerce

The non-profit organization that coordinates and promotes the annual 'Go MAD' festival as part of its mission to support local businesses and community development in Madison County.

Samantha Wilkins

Executive Director of the Madison County Chamber of Commerce and the lead organizer of the 'Go MAD' festival.

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What they’re saying

“We're thrilled to bring back 'Go MAD' after a couple tough years. This festival is the highlight of our year and a chance to showcase everything that makes Madison County such a special place.”

— Samantha Wilkins, Executive Director, Madison County Chamber of Commerce

What’s next

Tickets for the 'Go MAD' festival are on sale now through the event's website. Organizers are encouraging attendees to purchase in advance, as capacity is limited for certain activities.

The takeaway

The return of the 'Go MAD' festival is an exciting moment for the Madison County community, signaling a post-pandemic rebound for the region's vibrant arts, music, and small business scene. The three-day event promises to be a joyful celebration of local culture and community spirit.