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A Free Community Newspaper Published Bimonthly by the Northside Planning Council

WPCRC

Zach Watson - WPCRC Facility Manager
By Zach Watson
WPCRC Facility Manager
Published: May 23, 2026

Warner Park Rec Center brings a big summer lineup to the Northside.

From beauty arts to basketball, WPCRC’s KNOW Program is packed with free opportunities for youth and community members this summer.

WPCRC is kicking off a full summer of programming through the KNOW Program, offering free and low-cost opportunities for youth and adults across Madison’s Northside starting this June.

Eyelash Extensions Class for Youth begins June 8. Middle and high schoolers ages 11–18 can dive into the beauty industry this summer with a free, hands-on Eyelash Extensions class. Running for eight weeks on Monday and Wednesday evenings, the course gives young people a chance to learn real professional skills in a supportive, creative environment. The class is completely free for participants with a WPCRC ID.

Youth Mentorship Summer Program begins June 25. Also open to youth ages 11–18, this eight-week program offers a well-rounded experience covering career planning, research skills, creative arts and writing, and emotional regulation. Weekly sessions are complemented by educational field trips that take learning outside the building. Free with a WPCRC ID, this program is built to help young people gain confidence, direction and real-world tools heading into the school year.

Late-Night Basketball is Saturday, June 20, 9–12 pm. Open to anyone 16 and older with a WPCRC ID, Late-Night Basketball returns for another night of open gym action on multiple courts. Free food, snacks, and clothes will be available for all participants. Come ready to ball.

1st Annual Northside Food Cart Festival is Friday, June 26, 4–8 pm. WPCRC is partnering with FEED Kitchens to host the first-ever Northside Food Cart Festival in the parking lot at 1625 Northport Drive. Expect a festive afternoon of local food, community and good energy. Food cart vendors are welcome. Interested participants should reach out to Marquis Sanders at msanders@cityofmadison.com.

Madison Adult Pro-Am Basketball League begins July 3. Every Friday evening for eight weeks, WPCRC will host a competitive Pro-Am Basketball League featuring some of Madison’s top talent, including local college and professional players. Both men’s and women’s divisions are available, with limited spots open for the first six teams in each. Don’t wait — register soon.

For more information on any of these programs or to register, contact Marquis Sanders at msanders@cityofmadison.com.

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