Madison has the reputation for being a liberal community, as it is politically active and culturally diverse. Most students see the university as the epicenter of liberalism, yet outside of the college bubble is a larger community of people keeping the spirit of Madison’s rich history alive. This weekend marked the 31st Willy Street Fair, located on Williamson Street in a neighborhood about a 15 minute walk off campus. Featuring a variety of live music, delicious food and political activism, the fair hardly resembles the average block party, even if it is the city’s largest.
The main attraction, the parade, provided several stunning sights. Young children towered above the adults on 6-foot-tall stilts, while a young girl pedaled a unicycle next to her father. A woman sporting an elaborate fairy costume with her entire body painted waved to the crowd as her young son trailed behind dressed as a king. Three “Raging Grannies” wore Barack Obama apparel, holding signs and singing campaign songs, and a band took up the rear of the parade playing music, inspiring all who were present. It was a surreal sight.
After the parade, the music continued at the seven stages sprawled about the three blocks. Each stage boasted a variety of musical genres including folk, rock and children’s music. At the folk stage, SONiA, the creative mind behind Disappear Fear, played acoustic guitar and harmonica, captivating the crowd with her distinct and honest sound. Through her lyrics, one can gather that she is a storyteller — a powerful one at that. While the folk stage provided a calm atmosphere, the rock and cultural stages were the places to dance. Couples, young and old, grooved to the music of multiple bands including Primitive Dawn, Pagee GoGo and the Blueheels. At the underground stage, sponsored by WORT, Jentri Collelo, The Midwest Beat, Felicia Alma, Pistols at Dawn, The Box Social and Whore Du Jour vs. Lady Robotika performed.
In addition to music, the Willy Street Fair included over 150 vendors this year. The best in Costa Rican, Mexican, Italian, Jamaican and American cuisine were available as well as classic fair snacks such as Ernie’s Kettle Korn and homemade funnel cake. All food aside, the array of artists and craftsmanship was unbelievable as fair-goers saw the beautiful blown glass vases, handmade jewelry, purses and paintings that lined the streets. As impromptu street performers added the occasional unexpected dashes of salsa or solo saxophone, it was obvious the fair was not lacking in entertainment.
While the public enjoys the Willy Street Fair for the cultural experience, the public had more to smile about, as the fair is a major fundraiser for Common Wealth Development and Wil-Mar Neighborhood. It just goes to show that Madison still remains a place of social awareness and cultural celebration. Experience the real Madison, outside of the university, and take part in the tradition of the Willy Street Fair next year.
