Jazz Fest

Madison has a lot of festivals. There is Brat Fest, Mifflin Street Block Party, the Dane County Fair, and a ton of other culturally related festivals. There is also Jazz Fest as hosted by the UW. It is an annual event that always takes place on the Union Terrace. The Union Terrace is beautiful place, perhaps not as fantastic as the Monona Terrace, but beautiful in its own right.

It is right on the lake. There is almost always a field of sailboats just off the shore. Ducks float in the water and fill on the bread those sitting on the piers throw in. Green trees mark the boundaries of the lake. There are the older building of the UW campus. They are in good condition, but the old faded books and climbing ivy make one feel as if they have been transported through time. The Red Gym stands most majestic amongst them all. Its tall turrets seem to touch the sky and its deep red brick are always a shocking contrast against the blue or grey skies.

The deep tones and chaotic rhythms of well-known Jazz bands add to the ambience. Thousands of people sit around, sun glasses guarding them from the sun’s rays glaring off the saxophone. A low hum of conversation blends in with the hum of the speakers.

Grills send up smoke signals and the smell of burgers and brats. Cold beer flows freely (if you have the appropriate ID). It’s a joy for everyone and I am so glad I have been able to experience it for the last four or five years.