Groovy Vibes and Community Pride: A Look Back at Picnic in the Park 2025
- sfranklin299
- 21 hours ago
- 2 min read
What happens when you combine bell-bottoms, disco beats, and a community passionate about Madison's parks? Pure magic—and more than $100,000 raised to support programs that transform lives. $114,388 to be exact! See where it went
Our 1970s-themed Picnic in the Park at Westmorland Park this past May brought together 233 friends of Madison's parks for an evening that felt like stepping into a time machine. With VO5—one of Madison's favorite 70s cover bands—filling the air with classics that had everyone on their feet, and the incomparable John Stofflet serving as our Master of Ceremonies, the event captured everything we love about bringing community together in beautiful public spaces.
But beyond the groovy costumes and nostalgic tunes, something even more meaningful happened that evening. We shared the story of the KNOW - Kids Need Opportunities at Warner program and the incredible impact your generosity makes possible. When we talk about 200+ youth engaged weekly in life-changing programming, about young people earning referee certifications that create real employment opportunities, about families gathering for community meals and celebrations—these aren't just numbers. They're neighborhood kids, northside families, and a community investment in Madison's future.
The response was overwhelming. This year's Picnic in the Park saw the highest level of participant engagement we've ever experienced. Conversations flowed, connections deepened, and the shared commitment to ensuring every Madison resident can enjoy and benefit from our parks felt tangible.
Twenty-two sponsors stepped forward to make the evening possible, and the volunteer setup crew turned what could have been a logistical challenge into a joyful opportunity to work alongside donors who believe deeply in this mission.
We're especially grateful to Event Essentials, whose devoted support makes this signature event possible year after year. Their partnership allows us to create memorable experiences while directing maximum resources toward the programs that matter most.
The success of Picnic in the Park means more than a wonderful evening—it means continued support for programs like K.N.O.W., scholarships that open doors to access to swimming, and countless other ways we work alongside Madison Parks to ensure our 297-park system serves everyone.
And here's the exciting news: we're already looking ahead to this year's Picnic in the Park, scheduled for October at Warner Park Community Recreation Center. Get ready to kick off your Sunday shoes because we're going full 1980s with a "Footloose Prom" theme! The timing couldn't be more perfect—we'll celebrate in the newly renovated and expanded facility that will soon house the K.N.O.W. program's exciting growth. Imagine dancing the night away in the very space where young people are building skills, finding mentorship, and creating pathways to success.
To everyone who joined us at Westmorland Park in May—thank you. Your presence, your generosity, and your commitment to Madison's parks create ripples of positive impact throughout our community. We can't wait to see you on the dance floor this October, where we'll celebrate another year of partnership, progress, and the enduring power of parks to bring people together.
Stay tuned for details about the October 10, 2026 Picnic in the Park presented by Event Essentials and in the meantime, keep enjoying those beautiful parks your support makes possible.
