Día de Fútbol Celebrates 10 Years of Soccer, Culture and Community
From Madison Gas & Electric
Families throughout the Madison area are invited to enjoy a free day of soccer, culture, learning and community connection at the 10th annual Día de Fútbol, hosted by Madison Gas & Electric (MGE).
For the past decade, MGE’s Día de Fútbol has used the universal love of soccer to bring families together and connect them with cultural experiences, educational opportunities, career pathways and valuable community resources. This year, Madison College and Leopold Elementary School are joining as community partners, strengthening the collaboration among local schools, businesses and community organizations.
The celebration will take place Saturday, Oct. 3, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Aldo Leopold Elementary School, 2602 Post Road in Madison. The event is free and open to children and their families. No ticket is required, but families are encouraged to register children who would like to participate in the soccer clinics. To make it easier for families to attend, three school buses will provide free transportation to Día de Fútbol. Buses will pick up families at Sandburg Elementary School, Mendota Elementary School and Hawthorne Elementary School and take them to the event. Families can enjoy the celebration without having to worry about transportation costs.
Young soccer players of all skill levels can take part in free clinics and activities designed to help them stay active, build confidence and share their love of the game. Children will also receive a free Día de Fútbol T-shirt and water bottle while supplies last, so families are encouraged to arrive early.
But soccer is only the beginning. Cultural performances and entertainment throughout the day will include Danza Azteca, a performance by Union Latina from La Follette High School, music from DJ Lalo and traditional tunes performed by a local youth mariachi band. At noon, representatives from MGE, the Madison Metropolitan School District and Madison College will welcome attendees. The afternoon program will also include recognition of high school students and senior athletes.
Families can explore interactive activities related to energy, safety, education and future careers. At the MGE stations, visitors can generate energy with the Pedal Power Bike, explore an electric vehicle, see a bucket truck up close, participate in safety activities and discover practical ways to save energy at home.
Madison College will offer interactive virtual reality experiences that introduce children and teens to different careers. Families can also learn about higher education, automotive technician programs and other possible career pathways.
Throughout the event, attendees will have opportunities to meet local organizations offering educational programs, youth activities, energy assistance and other helpful services. Participants include Centro Hispano of Dane County, Maydm, Roots 4 Change, UNIDOS, Voces de la Frontera, Play and Learn, Millennium Soccer Club, Sonic Soccer Club, Madison School & Community Recreation, Union Latina from La Follette High School, Focus on Energy, Energy Services Inc., Project Home and KEEP.
Bringing these organizations together in one welcoming location makes it easier for families to discover programs, services and opportunities available throughout the Madison community. Visitors can ask questions, meet staff and begin building relationships with organizations that support local children and families all year long.
Food will be available for purchase from local vendors, including El Chisme, Los Gemelos and Mini Donut Food Cart. Families can also enjoy face painting, giveaways and activities as they explore the event.
“Over the past 10 years, Día de Fútbol has grown into an important community tradition by creating a welcoming place where families can celebrate their culture, build relationships and connect with organizations that serve them throughout the year,” said Gloria Castillo, MGE’s Customer Engagement and Community Services Manager and lead event organizer. “By bringing together soccer, education, career exploration, energy information and family resources in one accessible event, MGE and its partners have helped build trust and create meaningful community connections. The spirit of partnership and belonging has kept Día de Fútbol relevant and meaningful for a full decade.”
Five Reasons Families Should Not Miss Día de Fútbol
- Free soccer fun for young players - Children can practice their skills, stay active and enjoy the game with other local kids. Free Día de Fútbol T-shirts and water bottles will also be available to children while supplies last.
- Music, dance and cultural celebration - Families can enjoy a lively program featuring a youth mariachi band, Danza Azteca, DJ Lalo, community dancing and performances that celebrate the cultures and talents of the community.
- Hands-on learning and career exploration - Children and teens can explore electric vehicles, solar energy, MGE equipment, safety activities, virtual reality and educational programs that may inspire new interests and future career goals.
- Food, activities and community resources - Families can enjoy food, face painting and giveaways while meeting trusted local organizations that support children, schools and families throughout the year.
- A chance to explore and win - Attendees can complete the Día de Fútbol Challenge by visiting participating stations and collecting a staff signature at each one. Completed pathway sheets can be returned to the MGE Check-In Station to enter a drawing for a $50 gift card, courtesy of the Leopold Elementary School PFO.
Join the Celebration
Bring the whole family to Día de Fútbol on Saturday, Oct. 3, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Aldo Leopold Elementary School, 2602 Post Road in Madison.
Admission is free, and no ticket is needed. Families should register children in advance if they plan to participate in the soccer clinics. Learn more and register on the Día de Fútbol 2026 event page.
Come ready to play, learn, celebrate and connect. Arrive early for the free children’s T-shirts and water bottles, explore every station and join us in celebrating 10 years of goals, smiles and community energy!
