Community Programs

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Moon Over Monona Terrace

2012 (Fall) Date TBD

One of our most popular programs, a new and improved Moon Over Monona Terrace combines the talents of the Madison Astronomical Society with the vast beauty of the Monona Terrace rooftop! Young and the young at heart are invited to come explore the night sky through a multitude of different telescopes. Members will share their knowledge of the skies, and provide information to assist "backyard astronomers." Enjoy a new a kids activity zone, as well as a special moon lecture each half hour - fun for the whole family! The evening will begin with moon viewing and will progress to Jupiter and possibly the space station as the night skies get darker. Concessions will be available.

Here's what some past participants had to say:
"Really an outstanding night; we all enjoyed it. The astronomers each with their own equipment were the best; very friendly and knowledgeable... Overall, a great night; we will definitely be back next year." - Rebecca A., Fitchburg

"It was a great program. My six-year-old son loved it. Thank you for sponsoring this event." - Molly P., McFarland

"It was a ton of fun and my three year old loved playing the games and checking out the moon!" - Sarah M., Madison

Monona Terrace Community Open House

2012 Date TBD
FREE TOUR, GOODIES & GIVEAWAYS!!!

Don't miss this chance to have a sneak peek at the inner workings of one of Madison's most iconic architectural masterpieces for FREE! Tour guides will reveal behind the scenes looks at the various departments at Monona Terrace, including sustainable business operations, and see how Wright's organic architecture is expressed in dramatic open spaces, circular forms and breathtaking lake views within the facility. Guests will get the opportunity to hear insider stories from various staff and enjoy free delicious treats from onsite caterer, Monona Catering. Also look for special giveaways! Tour starts in the Gift Shop.

Family Concert

Wednesday, October 24, 2012
Entertainment - TBD
7 p.m., Madison Ballroom

FREE AND OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

Enjoy a wonderful evening of free musical entertainment. This Family Concert marks the beginning of the 2012 Wisconsin State Music Conference. Sponsored in part by the Wisconsin Music Educators Association and Monona Terrace.

Terrace Town Going Green

This biennial program will occur next in spring 2014, date TBD.

FREE ARCHITECTURAL FUN AND LEARNING FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY!

Come celebrate architecture and design at this unique family program! Terrace Town engages some 1,500 local elementary students to study architecture and community planning in the classroom throughout the school year with the support of professional architects and city planners who serve as program mentors. Come see the fruits of their labor and witness spectacular creativity on display! Enjoy 10,000 square feet of “green” scale model neighborhoods which were designed by students using recycled materials! In addition, young and the young at heart are invited to try their hand at box building design and placement in our very own Terrace Town city created at this event. Other free family activities include a cookie building activity, a big block building area, and special activities by the UW Construction Club and AIA Wisconsin. Be sure to visit the snack bar at Terrace Town, which offers an assorted menu including burgers, nachos and apple dippers.

Here's what some of the participating teachers had to say:

“This program engages learners to think as an individual as well as a member of an important team. Fantastic method of teaching in a multiple intelligence way." -Anonymous, Spring 2008

“The connections to our standards are numerous. The relevance/authenticity is high. And-oh yes- it’s fun!” -Anonymous, Spring 2008

“Kids of all levels and abilities can be involved. Really builds class cohesiveness, teamwork, problem solving and compromising skills.” -Anonymous, Spring 2008