Madison's Bottle Hill Day Returns Soon: What To Expect This Year

MADISON, NJ — Madison's biggest fall celebration is almost here, with Bottle Hill Day returning downtown Saturday, Oct. 3.

The free, rain-or-shine festival runs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and celebrates its 51st year in 2026, according to the Borough of Madison. This year's theme is "Celebrating America's 250th," marking the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence and bringing a patriotic focus to this year's festival.

More than 225 vendors are expected across the festival, along with sidewalk sales, food and three amusement areas. Four stages will offer live, family-friendly music beginning at 10 a.m., with an emphasis on Madison performers.

The Madison Chamber of Commerce and Madison P.B.A. #92 will also host the annual Madison Car Show. Food options include a Food Court on Cook Avenue and a Food Truck Court on Kings Road.

The Bottle Hill Day Beer Garden returns for its 13th year on Kings Road between Prospect Street and Maple Avenue. Family activities and rides will be offered at Dodge Field.

Bottle Hill Day was established in 1974 to promote Madison's business district. The borough says the festival now draws between 10,000 and 20,000 people each fall.

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