Ukraine Fest, Queer Dance Floors, and a Trip to the Public Market

Madison’s fifth annual Ukraine Fest is happening this Saturday, Aug. 22 in Olin Park. The event comes at a time when 100,000 Ukrainian refugees in the U.S. are awaiting a decision by the Trump administration on whether or not to extend their Temporary Protected Status. Host Bianca Martin and producer Jade Iseri-Ramos talk with Allison Suchon from Friends of Ukraine Madison about the festival and the heightened anxiety among the Ukrainian community.  Then, MAMA 2026 DJ of the Year DJ Femme Noir (aka Tempestt Ballenger) joins the show to talk about the state of Madison’s queer dance scene. Finally, we discuss the newly opened Madison Public Market. Spoiler alert: it features several vendors, excellent bathrooms, and paid parking.  👋 Wanna talk to us about an episode? Leave us a voicemail at 608-318-3367 or email [email protected]. We’re also on Instagram!  📧 You can get more Madison news delivered right to your inbox by subscribing to the City Cast Madison morning newsletter.  🏠 Get more from City Cast Madison when you become a City Cast Madison Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events, and more. Join the City Cast Madison Neighbors program! Looking to advertise on City Cast Madison? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this August 20th episode: Bike The Barns