By Allen Halas OnMilwaukee Staff Writer Published Aug 22, 2025 at 6:00 AM

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Milwaukee is full of events in every neighborhood this weekend! From the Brewers being back in town to the big concerts happening throughotu the city, there's something for you to do!  The weekend starts now with the Weekend Preview, brought to you by Potawatomi Casino Hotel!

FRIDAY

The Milwaukee Brewers play the San Francisco Giants at American Family Field this weekend in Milwaukee.X

Milwaukee Brewers vs. San Francisco Giants
The red-hot Milwaukee Brewers are back in Milwaukee at American Family Field this weekend, and they'll kick things off with a series against the San Francisco Giants on Friday night.
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Lil Wayne: Tha Carter VI Tour
Catch Lil Wayne with Tyga and Belly Gang Kushington at American Family Insurance Amphitheater. Expect one of the most high-profile cheeseheads to run through decades of hits.
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Fresh Coast Jazz Festival
Held annually at the historic Pabst Theater, this year’s lineup includes Everette Harp, Andy Snitzer, and Chris Standring. Performances feature collaborations, jazz inspirations, and Midwest exclusives.
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Mexican Fiesta brings the sound, culture, and taste of Mexico to Milwaukee's lakefront From August 22-24, join in as we celebrate three days of fun, food, mariachi, and fiesta for everyone. Mexican Fiesta is a vigorous declaration of community spirit at its best, honoring culture, tradition, and family. Mexican Fiesta encourages individuals from all ethnic backgrounds to share in the beauty of Mexico's rich history, art, music, and food. Get tickets Henry Maier Festival Park · 200 N Harbor Dr, Milwaukee

Painting on the Plaza at The New Fashioned
Paint with Splash Studio on the outdoor patio, with step-by-step guidance and charcuterie included in the $44 ticket price.
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Cypress Hill, Atmosphere, Lupe Fiasco, The Pharcyde at The Rave
Get ready to soak up the Dank Daze of Summer Festival at The Rave / Eagles Club! This isn’t just a concert; it’s an indoor-outdoor takeover. The Rave Plaza will be packed with fan-favorite food trucks and local vendors. Then head inside to see hip hop legends Cypress Hill, Atmosphere, Lupe Fiasco, and The Pharcyde take over The Eagles Ballroom.
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Ceramic Wall Planter Workshop
Design and build a unique wall planter in this relaxed 3-hour workshop using beginner-friendly ceramic techniques. All materials are included, and finished pieces are glazed and kiln-fired for later pickup or shipping.
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Firefly Fridays
Celebrate summer every Friday through September 26 with food trucks, beer, crafts, and live music in Firefly Grove Park. Community vibes and local flavors are guaranteed.
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This One's For the Swifties: A Taylor Swift Dance Party at The Cooperage
A dance party for the Swifts and beyond! Come sing along to all your favorite bubblegum dance jams on the Harborfront!A hot and sweaty dance parfty featuring all of your favorite dance tunes from the best of the pop princesses of the aughts hosted by the one and only DJ Joey Turbo!
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Floyd Nation
Experience a tribute to Pink Floyd’s iconic "Wish You Were Here" album, celebrating its place as a legendary rock release since 1975.
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Max & The Fellow Travelers, Glass Beagle, Sludge Hawking at Linneman's
Armed with little but a 6-string, a harp rack and a stack of songs that harken back to the wrought folk rock of yesteryear, Max Niemann packs a punch that is as heartfelt as it is biting. 
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Ocean Sleeper, Garzi, Vacant Voice, Haunter at X-Ray Arcade
Ocean Sleeper is coming all the way from Australia to scream directly into your soul from our very famous stage. If you're into getting loud, getting sad, or both at the same time...see you there.
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An Evening with Harmonious Wail
Harmonious Wail returns to Anodyne Walker’s Point for an energetic night of music and celebration. Featuring award-winning members Maggie Delaney-Potthoff, Scott Hlavenka, Forrest Evens, and Sims Delaney-Potthoff, the group brings its genre-blending sound back to one of their favorite stages.
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Gallery Talk: “Erin Shirreff: Permanent Drafts”
Join curator Kristen Gaylord for an insightful talk on Erin Shirreff’s exhibit, featuring over 40 recent pieces in the museum’s photography and media arts space.
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Jessica Kirson at Turner Hall Ballroom
Known for her bold stage presence and hilarious characters, Jessica Kirson brings her high-energy comedy to Milwaukee following viral success and major appearances.
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"Look What I Made: A Year in Color" with Megan Woodard Johnson
Join Megan Woodard Johnson for a closing reception of her Artist in Residence program, showcasing vibrant art created over the past year.
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Ozomatli at Vivarium
Ozomatli celebrates 30 years of genre-blending music with a dynamic concert that captures the cultural sound of Los Angeles.
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Sip & Sound End of Summer Music Series at Style Pop Cafe
Weekly performances by local musicians every Friday in August from 6–8 p.m. at Style Pop Cafe. Enjoy a rotating lineup and a chill atmosphere.
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Kneafsey, Maximiano, Ellie Jackson at Cactus Club
Kneafsey is the solo project of Motel Breakfast frontman Jimmy Drenovsky. His singer/songwriter set will headline a night that touches on Americana and folk.
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Broken Arrow, Candy Cigarette, The Coves at Falcon Bowl

A trio of indie rock acts head to the intimate Falcon Nest at Falcon Bowl in Riverwest on Friday night.
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Brews & Blooms 2025 at the Kneeland-Walker House
Presented by the Wauwatosa Historical Society, this series offers beer, food trucks, live music, and garden tours. Events include trivia, house tours, and live performances.
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Live Magic at Wizard Works Brewing
Chris Ivanovich performs mind-bending magic and sleight-of-hand at the bar in this intimate live show experience.
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Transport v.10: Sian Nevenicola and Language Models at Cactus Club
Anonymous nodes glitter with manic creativity, unbothered by the night. The dark can’t hamper a real spark gowing singular in the surplus if it’s adamant about its sound. Feet pound the ground and the LFOs go ’round and ’round, up and down.
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Nox Novacula, World In Action, DT Harm at Club Garibaldi
Nox Novacula returns to Milwaukee for another night of Death Rock! Don’t miss out!
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SATURDAY

Emmitt James' annual Big Band BBQ takes place this weekend in MilwaukeeX

Emmitt James Big Band BBQ
Enjoy a night of music, food, and community featuring Milwaukee's own Emmitt James and a live 25-piece band, youth showcase, and special guest DJ set. Free to attend, with limited VIP tickets available for added perks.
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Shane Gillis at Fiserv Forum
Comedian Shane Gillis has already set the all-time ticket sales record at six arenas and achieved 11 historic sellouts, playing each arena’s largest comedy show of all time –breaking records belonging to acts as diverse as Kevin Hart and U2. He'll come to Milwaukee this Saturday night.
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Falls Festival of the Arts
Menomonee Falls transforms into an arts hub from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. with art demos, live music, food trucks, and a Kids Art Zone. Free, interactive, and family-friendly.
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Float Fest 2025
Celebrate Float Milwaukee’s anniversary with music, art, food vendors, and a live mermaid. The festival highlights local talent in a fun, festive environment.
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Milwaukee's best and toughest amateur boxers at Davidson Park Head to Davidson Park for an action-packed lineup of Milwaukee's best and toughest amateur boxers. Plus local food trucks and drinks from our 1903 Tavern. A chance to screen print your own exclusive fight night t-shirt with Milwaukee OATS Screenprinting. And other free family-friendly activities like facepainting and retro video games (including Mike Tyson Punch-Out!!) with CARCADE. Get your free tickets Davidson Park · 3725 West Juneau Avenue, Milwaukee

Goat Yoga at Old World Wisconsin
Old World Wisconsin hosts goat yoga in a unique historical setting. Stretch and unwind as friendly goats join your practice. All ages welcome, and space is limited.
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Smash Burger Pop-Up at Dead Bird Brewing Co.
Dead Bird Brewing Co. hosts a vegan smash burger pop-up featuring burgers, hot dogs, elote cups, and more. No tickets needed—just swing by for good food and local brews on the dog-friendly patio.
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Café Corazón Tiki Taco Patio Party
Café Corazón’s summer series ends with a lively tiki-themed patio party in Brown Deer. Enjoy food and drink specials, plus a live set from the 13 Tiki’s.
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Babytron at The Rave
Michigan rapper BabyTron stands out for applying his lyrical wit and clever punchlines to uncommon instrumentals. After his 2019 track "Jesus Shuttlesworth" went viral on the strength of BabyTron's comical flow over a somewhat throwback synth pop backdrop, he became known for his ability to rap over any outlandish beat.
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John Caparulo’s Mad Cap Comedy at Vivarium
Comedian John Caparulo brings his signature dry humor and unfiltered takes to the stage. Known for his no-nonsense delivery, he’s a longtime favorite among stand-up fans.
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Venus Presents: Bikini Bottoms at The Cooperage
Get your bikinis, board shorts, & white t-shirts ready, because there's various water games, soap wrestling, and more at The Cooperage on Saturday.
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Night Market by re:Craft and Relic
Held at the Franksville Craft Beer Garden, this free night market features 70+ vendors, food trucks, and live music. Enjoy craft beers and root beer in a family-friendly park setting.
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Partner Pilates
Pair up and stretch out at this partner Pilates class designed to strengthen your body and deepen your connection. No experience required—just bring your person and good energy.
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The ultimate night out for men and women who enjoy premium cigars and spirits Relax, eat, drink, smoke and play at the Midwest's premier cigar festival. For the price of admission, attendees receive more than $250 worth of premium cigars PLUS an evening of unlimited samplings of fine spirits, craft beer, wine, demonstrations and live entertainment. Get tickets Heidelberg Park at the Bavarian Bierhaus · 700 W Lexington Boulevard, Glendale

RiverBEAST24
A bike scramble across Milwaukee’s East Side, RiverBEAST24 challenges riders to hit checkpoints via an app-based adventure. Expect a scenic 24K ride—no flat routes guaranteed.
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Oliver Francis, JordanXBell, NileXNile at X-Ray Arcade
Oliver Francis makes vibey, emo-adjacent trap that’s perfect for blasting in your car while you overthink everything. He writes, records, and produces it all himself.
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Subspace Presents: Cyanotic, am.psych, Derision Cult at Cactus Club
Part band, part machine, the Chicago-based angry robot outfit Cyanotic, has been producing their own hybrid of angry robot music since forming in 2002. 
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Summer Night Movie in Veterans Park (The Garfield Movie)
Enjoy a free outdoor screening of "The Garfield Movie" on Milwaukee’s lakefront. Starts at dusk with $1 popcorn. Bring chairs or blankets and enjoy a family-friendly night under the stars.
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Kohl’s Design It! Lab at Discovery World
Drop into the Design It! Lab and choose a rotating creative project to make and take home. Activities range from 5 to 20 minutes and are great for all ages.
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Fightin' Bob, The Taxmen, RJ Ziebarth at Linneman's
Fightin’ Bob is a 5-piece “Frog Rock” (funk/prog rock) band whose members hail from across the greater Milwaukee, Wisconsin area. They play originals and covers, ranging from prog rock to funk/jazz fusion.
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Leather Bracer Workshop: Craft Your Own Faire-Ready Armor
Get ready for the Bristol Renaissance Faire with custom leather bracers. This 1-hour beginner-friendly workshop includes all materials and instruction. Offered every Saturday through Sept. 1.
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Tosa Farmers Market
A weekly open-air market in Wauwatosa offering fresh produce, local goods, and handmade items. Support sustainability while browsing vendor stalls in a community-centered setting.
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Walker’s Point Stroll, Sip & Savor
Explore Milwaukee’s food scene with this 2.5–3-hour walking tour through Walker’s Point. Enjoy local eats, cocktails, and street art with multiple tasting stops. Private bookings available.
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Wine Tasting Workshop: Learn the Secrets of Tasting Wine
Taste like a pro at this relaxed Saturday workshop. Learn how to swirl, sniff, and sip while sampling one full pour or three curated tasters. 21+ only.
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The Spine Stealers, Ross Thorn, Bitch Creek at Falcon Bowl
If you like a night of indie folk with a rustic aesthetic to it, head to Falcon Bowl in Riverwest for three emerging acts.
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Lalafroufrou: Late Night Spin at Cactus Club
Lalafroufrou will be spinning vinyl in the Cactus Club bar until close, tracing energetic connections across genres and decades. Go where it feels nice!
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SUNDAY

Snap-On Milwaukee Mile 250X

Snap-On Milwaukee Mile 250
Feel the speed during INDYCAR action at the historic Milwaukee Mile. Enjoy races, live music, and fan experiences throughout the weekend.
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Styx & Kevin Cronin, Don Felder at American Family Insurance Amphitheater
Rock legends Styx and Don Felder join Kevin Cronin on tour, bringing decades of iconic hits and theatrical performances to the stage.
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Celebrate the Brewers with Dollar Hot Dog Day · September 1 Summer's not done yet! Join the Brewers September 1st for a Labor Day matchup against the Phillies. Get ready, because we're celebrating the long weekend with dollar hot dog day. Get Your Seats American Family Field · 1 Brewers Way, Milwaukee

A Docent Guided Tour of the Lynden Gardens
A special opportunity for adults 45+ to explore the Lynden Sculpture Garden with a knowledgeable docent. Discover modern and contemporary art across 40 acres of nature. Tour includes gallery access.
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Bouquet Cafe at Happy Day Farmhaus
Slow down your Sunday with fresh-cut flowers and coffee on the farm. Create your own bouquet with blooms grown onsite. Family and friends are welcome to join at no charge if they aren’t making a bouquet.
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Full Band Open Jam with Uncle Don at Nashville North
Join Uncle Don every Sunday at Nashville North for a full band open jam. Musicians of all levels are welcome to take the stage, with drums, bass, and PA provided.
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MKE With Kids Back to School Celebration
Celebrate the new school year with a live DJ, crafts, hometown mascots, and hands-on activities. This free family event features plenty of interactive fun.
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Rap J’s Limitless Release Show with Riz and DJ Dscribe at Anodyne Coffee Roasters
Catch an inspiring night of hip-hop with Rap J, a Milwaukee native using music to break barriers. Local favorite Riz joins with jazz, hip-hop, and R&B fusion.
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Rooftop Yoga at the Vue
Stretch and breathe above the city at this skyline yoga session atop the Hyatt Regency. A peaceful, slow-paced class designed for all levels.
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Sensory Friendly Sessions at Betty Brinn Children's Museum
Families looking for a calmer museum experience can visit during Sensory Friendly hours on the second and fourth Sundays of each month.
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Sunday Supper with Chef Angel at Lupi + Iris
Enjoy a four-course meal crafted by Chef Angel Otero, showcasing his personal culinary favorites in a warm, inviting setting.
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Blush, Sunshy, Muted Color, Striped Cow at Sugar Maple
If your idea of catharsis involves staring at your shoes while getting emotionally walloped, this one’s calling your name. Blush are headed to Sugar Maple for a night of Shoegaze!
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West Coast Swing Lesson & Dance
Join Milwaukee Rebels for a beginner West Coast Swing lesson followed by open dancing. No partner needed—just show up and swing!
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Wheels & Water at Discovery World
Discovery World hosts a free outdoor event where kids can explore real machinery and meet the professionals who keep the city moving.
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Cathedral Square Market
This downtown Milwaukee market features fresh produce, handmade goods, and weekly live music and fitness classes in the park.
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HarborMarket – Sunday Fundays
Sip and shop on select Sundays at this lakeside market in Pleasant Prairie. Featuring top vendors next to the Lake Andrea Beer Garden.
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Pilates in the Park
Join a free outdoor Pilates session with Anointed Hands. All levels are welcome for this guided 45-minute mat workout surrounded by nature.
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Riverwest Farmers Market
Support local farmers and makers every Sunday from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. on Pierce Street. Shop produce, baked goods, flowers, and more.
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STE Martaen Vegan Brunch at X-Ray Arcade
our favorite vegan pop-up returns to your favorite all ages venue/bar/arcade. Pre-order now or come hang out and order at the bar day-of.
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Special Needs Swim Time
The Springs Water Park offers inclusive swim sessions for kids and adults with special needs, along with their guests. Admission is $8.50.
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Walker Square Farmers Market
This revived community market honors the legacy of local advocate Jason Cleereman. Find fresh produce, live music, and neighborly vibes in Walker Square Park.
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Knoll, Pains, Milorganaut, Scroll at Cactus Club
Death metal and grindcore take over the Bay View club for a Sunday night rager that will redefine "Sunday Scaries."
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Angry Zeta, Little Foot, Dead Dead Swans, Old Wolves at X-Ray Arcade
Accordion, banjo, and a whole lot of punk spirit, straight from Argentina and ready to light up the room with rad folk punk.
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ALL WEEKEND LONG

Serbian DaysX

Serbian Days
Celebrate Serbian culture with three days of live music, traditional food, and community fun from August 22-25.
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Curious George™: Let’s Get Curious!
Now open at Discovery World, this interactive exhibit brings Curious George’s world to life with fun science, math, and engineering activities. Explore mini golf, a space rocket, a farm, and more—all included with general admission.
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Disney’s The Little Mermaid
Dive under the sea for a live production of The Little Mermaid, featuring beloved songs like “Part of Your World” and “Under the Sea.” This magical musical retells Ariel’s timeless journey to the surface.
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Time travel on your phone Experience a history lesson like no other in Oconomowoc. The city's new augmented reality experience allows you to bring to life what once was. Stand right where the history was made and make it appear. Enjoy this free activity downtown and stay for some real-life shopping and dining you'll find equally amazing! Learn more at VisitOcon.com

ARTchitecture at The David Barnett Gallery
Running July 18 through October 14, this show explores the relationship between art and architecture through various mediums.
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Kinetic Garden, Summer Floral Show at The Domes
The harmony between nature and art finds colorful expression in “Kinetic Garden,” a floral exhibit on view at The Domes June 7th - September 7th.
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Alfred Robles at Milwaukee Improv
After getting kicked out of the police academy, Alfred Robles rose to become one of the hottest young comedians in the country. Two years into his comedy career, Alfred was featured in the hit show "Loco Comedy Jam" and the Latino Laugh Festival. 
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Exploration Dinosaur at the Milwaukee County Zoo
Dig into dinos! Unearth the past and explore prehistoric life, including the bones, teeth, and more from mighty dinosaurs like the T. Rex and Triceratops! Walk among more than 20 full-size and scientifically accurate animatronic displays, plus four activity stations
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The Kalmbach Art Collection: Pairing Words and Imagery
Don't miss the first public exhibition of Kalmbach Media’s historic art collection. Totaling fifty-nine original paintings, "The Kalmbach Art Collection: Pairing Words and Imagery" is a pillar of rail-themed art filled with landmark works from Howard Fogg, George Gloff, Gil Reid, Ted Rose, John Swatsley, and many others.
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100 things to do in Milwaukee (and beyond) this summer
Looking for a way to get out and enjoy summer with your friends and family? We have ideas. From eating at a restaurant with a great patio view to enjoying local festivals to exploring the many outdoor attractions around town and more, here's everything you need for a great Milwaukee summer. 
100 things to do in Milwaukee

100 things for families and kids to do in Milwaukee this summer
Milwaukee provides fun for the whole family all summer long! Your mission is to see how many of these you can cross off of your checklist during the Great Milwaukee Summer.
100 Things to Do!

It's beer garden season!
Beer garden season has arrived in Milwaukee! Here's the dish – or should we say, the pour – including when they're open and more.
Beer Garden Guide

Enjoy some free music!
In just about every corner of Milwaukee, you'll hear live music in the summertime. The neighborhoods of the city come alive when the sun stays out late, and that means plenty of free concert series and a wide array of music for you to enjoy. 
Free Live Music Guide

Try a new restaurant!
Regularly supporting our locally owned restaurants is among the most impactful things we can vow to do. Lori Fredrich's list of 52 Restaurants for 2025 is here!
#52Restaurants