The original essence of Bottle Hill Day in Madison started as an idea and has become a staple. In 1974, Bottle Hill Day began under Mayor Elizabeth Baumgartner as a way to promote downtown businesses, but it has grown to a town-wide community festival. The name Bottle Hill was the original town name before Madison, which perfectly ties into the historical element and theme of this day. It started with around 3,000 to 5,000 attendees, but today has grown to anywhere between 10,000 and 20,000 attendees.
The event today still highlights the downtown district but includes a variety of games, music, food, and over 225 vendors each year. The festival is six blocks of fall festivities from 10:00 to 5:00, marking Madison’s official start to fall with decorations throughout the town. This year was particularly special because it was Bottle Hill Day’s 50th anniversary.
Oak Knoll is even featured at Bottle Hill Day! This year, it was represented by some of Oak Knoll’s student ambassadors, who gave out information flyers, dates for the Royal Boutique, and spoke to alumni. The festival had an upbeat atmosphere, attracting people of all ages. While Bottle Hill Day began as a way to highlight the downtown district, it has grown beyond that to drawing thousands from all over the area. From 50 years ago until now, Bottle Hill Day is still a festive and exciting event that marks Madison’s start of fall!