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It's another unseasonably warm Milwaukee weekend, which means that you have no excuse when it comes to exploring all that the city has to offer. This weekend has everything from playoff Brewers baseball to Oktoberfest celebrations, and a whole lot of typewriters at QWERTYFest as well. Check it all out in the Weekend Preview, brought to you by Potawatomi Casino Hotel!
FRIDAY
Southside Dining Week
The annual South Side celebration is serving up brand-new dishes, special deals and a Sunday Funday Fiesta kick-off you won't want to miss.
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2025 Milwaukee Korea Day Celebration & Symphony Orchestra Concert at UWM
The Korean American Faculty & Staff Association at UWM and the Korean American Association of Milwaukee present a cultural celebration and symphony concert. The event begins with K-pop dance crews, Taekwondo, food tastings, and Korean games, followed by a ticketed concert featuring the UWM Symphony Orchestra, violinist YooJin Jang, and soprano You-Seong Kim.
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QWERTYFest Typewriter Ball
Celebrate the invention of the typewriter in Milwaukee with live music by DJ Swing Shift (spinning records on vintage Victrola); Nineteen Thirteen and the Boston Typewriter Orchestra. Plus, Spoken Word Hour featuring comedy, storytelling and poetry, DarkFusion Systems Gaming Lounge (featuring Oregon Trail survival game), vendors (including an Analog Alley of vinyl records, Polaroid and tintype photography, and tabletop games), typewriter stations, typewriter art silent auction, food, Splendid Mailbox mailing station, ViewMaster Lounge, typewriter poets, complimentary food, cash bar and the Quick Brown Fox Typing Contest!
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Partner Pick
QWERTYFEST is a 3-day festival of live music, presentations, workshops, literary cemetery tours, brunch and camaraderie for writers, artists, typewriter aficionados, history buffs, mechanical keyboard connoisseurs and anyone who wants to celebrate innovation. Get tickets
A Tribute To Kenny Rogers and Dolly Parton: You Can't Make Old Friends
Dave Karl and Becca Bongiorno bring the hits of Kenny and Dolly to life in a tribute show backed by the Ultimate Legends Showband. Proceeds benefit the Germantown Fire Department Explorer Post.
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Destroyer: Dan's Boogie Tour at Vivarium
Dan Bejar explores the idea of the “boogie” as both movement and metaphor in his latest tour. Expect hypnotic music and poetic performance.
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Partner Pick
Grave Tales
Take a guided historical cemetery tour with the Waukesha County Historical Society & Museum and Prairie Home Cemetery. Experience tales from Waukesha’s past told by costumed spirits.
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Joe Russo's Almost Dead at Riverside Theater
Grateful Dead fans can catch this high-energy tribute band made up of renowned musicians.
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Live Band Karaoke at Paulie's
Step into the spotlight with a full backing band at Paulie’s. This monthly karaoke night offers a chance to sing your favorite hits with live music.
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Live from Laurel Canyon: James & Joni at Sharon Lynne Wilson Center
Celebrate the music of James Taylor and Joni Mitchell in a storytelling-style concert blending narration and iconic songs.
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Live Music at Station 1846
Enjoy a rotating lineup of live bands every Friday evening in Walkers Point.
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Ode to Joy: Beethoven’s Ninth at Bradley Symphony Center
The Milwaukee Symphony and Chorus present Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony, a powerful tribute to resilience and the human spirit.
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Re-Animator 40th Anniversary Screening & Q&A with Jeffrey Combs at Pabst Theater
Celebrate 40 years of Re-Animator with a screening and live Q&A from star Jeffrey Combs.
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Rivertown and Swiftprov
Two improv shows in one night! Enjoy small-town Americana in Rivertown followed by Taylor Swift-inspired improv in Swiftprov.
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Bad Cop / Bad Cop, The Iron Roses, Avenues at Cactus Club
Feisty punks Bad Cop / Bad Cop are coming to Milwaukee, and you can catch them at Bay View's Cactus Club!
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Frankie and the Witch Fingers, Population II at X-Ray Arcade
Frankie and the Witch Fingers deal in blown-out psych-punk with new wave glitches and just enough grease to stain your soul. Wild live show, serious pedalboard chaos, zero chill.
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St. Matthew's Fish Boil
Enjoy a classic Door County-style fish boil with sides and dessert. Take-out available.
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TuneMaster Music Bingo at Sprecher Brewery
Play music-themed bingo while listening to 45-second clips of iconic songs across genres. Each game has a different winning pattern.
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Bitchin' Bajas, Jeremiah Chiu, Marta Sofia Honer at Falcon Hall
Things are about to get all sorts of indi e, as a trio of buzzy acts will take over the Riverwest bowling alley.
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Home School Swim Special at The Ingleside Hotel
Families can enjoy discounted Friday afternoon swim sessions. Online tickets required.
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Milwaukee Halloween Ghost Walk: Uncover Haunted History with American Ghost Walks
Walk through the Third Ward with American Ghost Walks and hear chilling stories about Milwaukee’s haunted past.
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Mommy & Me Swim Time Special at Ingleside Hotel
Join Ingleside’s water park for a Friday morning swim session with your little one. Limited spots available.
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Peppers & Pineapples, Cozy Danger, Bellends at Linneman's
Formed by musician and writer Andy Klain and musician and producer Greg Zupek in 2023, the duo joined forces to write, record and produce their debut album “Sweet Heat.” The duo met as bandmates in Hot By Ziggy, a reggae rock band from Milwaukee that formed in 2014.
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Wine and Paint at The Local Makery
Unwind with a watercolor workshop at The Local Makery. Learn techniques while sipping wine in a relaxed setting.
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El Alfa at The Rave
El Alfa “El Jefe”, the number one artist from the Dominican Republic, is responsible for bringing Dembow and his country’s culture to the global stage.
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The Sword at The Rave
The Sword have handcrafted their own immersive mythology underscored by undeniable and unpredictable guitar fireworks, cinematic themes, and otherworldly concepts.
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Jaenga at Miramar Theatre
Get ready to dance the night away with a night of EDM, headlined by Jaenga at the Miramar.
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SATURDAY
Milwaukee Brewers vs. Chicago Cubs
It's time for postseason baseball! The Milwaukee Brewers head into the MLB playoffs with the best record in baseball and will host the National League Divisional Series at American Family Field. Let's go Brew Crew!
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Beet Street Fall Festival at Cactus Club
Celebrate local music, art, food, and activism at this vibrant Bay View block party featuring vendors, food trucks, DJs, and live performances.
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Extra!Extra! Newsroom Pub Party
Hosted by Qwertyfest! The party includes a food buffet, cash bar, and short talks from Bob Marshall (“Tales of Tom Hanks' Typers”) and Tea Krulos (“Anubis the Cat”). Plus, typewriters for public use and the presentation of QWERTYFEST's first QWERTY Word Award (AKA a "Wordy") to Milwaukee Journal Sentinel columnist Jim Stingl.
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'25 OktoHarvest Blocktoberfest at Urban Harvest Brewing
Celebrate the season finale of the 2025 Block Party series with brats, pretzels, and a 1 p.m. Oktoberfest tapping. Iron Pig Food Truck will serve classic festival fare.
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Partner Pick
2025 Milwaukee Lakefront Marathon, Half Marathon & 5k Run/Walk
Kick off marathon weekend with Saturday's 5k run or Walk the Hoan benefiting the This Time Tomorrow Foundation. Sunday hosts the full and half marathons.
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All That Trees Provide: Community-Curated Art Exhibition
Explore Wisconsin’s forest heritage through a curated art trail at the Forest Exploration Center. Meet local artists and enjoy an outdoor exhibit under the canopy.
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Are You Smarter Than an 8th Grade Nun?
Test your memory in this comedy game show hosted by the Racine Theatre Guild. Contestants compete on subjects like civics and science—with heavenly prizes.
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Art Pop Up for Oktoberfest at The David Barnett Gallery
Show your Oktoberfest ticket for a free vintage postcard and enjoy cider and wine tastings. The first 50 guests also receive a special gift.
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Celtic Thunder at Pabst Theater
Reunited members of Celtic Thunder bring heartfelt ballads, Irish folk, and fan favorites to an intimate performance celebrating their musical legacy.
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Collections of Colonies of Bees & Field Report at Vivarium
These two experimental rock bands bring a night of intricate arrangements and lyrical expression to the stage.
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Fall Family Fest at Konkel Park
Held alongside the Trick-or-Trot Run/Walk, this free event offers fall-themed games, activities, and food trucks for all ages.
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Family Free Day at the Milwaukee County Zoo
Enjoy free admission to the Zoo for a crisp fall day. Standard parking and attractions still apply.
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Layman Brewing's Annual Fish Boil & Smoked Pumpkin Beer Release Party
Celebrate fall with a traditional fish boil and the release of Tequila Gourdita Smoked Pumpkin Beer. Dinner starts at 6 p.m.
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Hazlett, Lighthearted at Turner Hall Ballroom
Indie folk artist Hazlett brings his emotionally rich sound to the stage following the release of his debut album Bloom Mountain.
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Lost Arts Festival at MSOE
The Grohmann Museum hosts live demos from craftspeople and artists showcasing traditional trades featured in its permanent collection.
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Observe the Moon Night at UWM Planetarium
Celebrate lunar exploration with telescopes, bonfires, and planetarium shows at UWM. Admission to indoor shows is $6/$5 for students.
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Pumpkin Decorating at Greyhouse Creative Market
Get creative with carving and decorating at this family-friendly Halloween workshop. All supplies are provided.
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Road Crew at Potawatomi Casino Hotel
Enjoy a night of popular country hits performed by six seasoned musicians.
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Seed Collecting Hike at Lakeshore State Park
Join a guided hike through Lakeshore State Park to harvest native prairie seeds. All ages and abilities are welcome.
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The Beerline Shuffle
Take part in a 3-mile community walk along the Beerline Trail featuring art, music, and a cookout.
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Tosa Pop-Up at James Steeno Gallery
Shop handcrafted goods from Wisconsin artists at this curated pop-up. Enjoy a beer garden and food truck throughout the event.
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Zaofest 2025
Hosted by Zao MKE Church and the Milwaukee LGBT Community Center, Zaofest features handmade goods, raffles, and community spirit.
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Kohl's Design It! Lab at Discovery World
Create your own DIY project to take home at this hands-on family experience with rotating crafts.
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Noche Latina at Freight 38
Dance the night away with DJ Rick playing salsa, bachata, merengue, and more. Includes a free dance lesson at 10 p.m.
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Secret Market
This vendor market at Brookfield Square features over 90 booths with vintage finds, live music, and a snack bar. Admission is $1.
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Tosa Farmers Market
Support local farmers and artisans at this open-air market that’s been serving Wauwatosa for over a decade.
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SUNDAY
Adam Sandler at Fiserv Forum
Comedian Adam Sandler brings his new tour to Fiserv Forum for a night of stand-up and music. This event is for mature audiences only.
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QWERTYFEST Typewriter Brunch 'n' Bowl
Brunch by the Riverwest Co-op and drinks will be available for purchase. Bring a typewriter (or other writing devices) or try one of QWERTYFEST's. Live music by Bitch Creek and toy jazz band Microplastique. FREE open bowling on vintage lanes.
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A.J. Croce Presents Croce Plays Croce at Pabst Theater
A.J. Croce performs songs from his own catalog and his late father Jim Croce’s timeless hits. Backed by his band, Croce blends rock, soul, blues, and Americana in a heartfelt and dynamic show.
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Brady Street Pet Parade
Celebrate pets of all kinds at this community parade and street festival featuring contests, vendors, music, and giveaways.
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Brawl in the Beer Hall II: Pour Decisions
Lakefront Brewery hosts a no-barricade pro wrestling event featuring stars from WWE, AEW, and more. Food and beer available all evening.
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Empty Bowls Soup & Ceramics Fest
Choose a handcrafted bowl, sample soups from local restaurants, and support NourishMKE’s mission to fight hunger in Milwaukee.
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Full Band Open Jam with Uncle Don at Nashville North
Join local musicians for a Sunday jam session on a fully equipped stage at Nashville North.
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OctoPURRfest
Bowl for a cause with Almost Home Cat Rescue MKE. Enjoy three games, drinks, and a silent auction—all to support rescue cats.
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Randi Driscoll Concert at Southminster Presbyterian Church
Enjoy an inspiring performance by Randi Driscoll in support of programs for girls and women with disabilities in Waukesha County.
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The Music of Motown, Hits, Jazz and Blues at Sharon Lynne Wilson Center
Enjoy a high-energy night of classic tunes, comedy, and a post-show reception with dancing at Sharon Lynne Wilson Center.
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The Witcher In Concert at Riverside Theater
Celebrate the 10th anniversary of The Witcher 3 with a live orchestral performance of its award-winning soundtrack, featuring Percival.
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West Coast Swing Classes at Delaware House
Learn West Coast Swing with the Milwaukee Rebels Dance Club. No partner required. Beginner and intermediate lessons offered.
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Walk, Weed & Wonder
Take a guided walk on the Beerline Trail to help clean up, remove invasive plants, and learn about the trail’s history and future.
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Cribbage Night at Indeed Brewing Company
Join a cribbage tournament at the Indeed Brewing taproom. Bring a board for a drink discount and compete for weekly and monthly prizes.
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Riverwest Farmers Market
Shop seasonal produce, baked goods, flowers, and local products every Sunday in Riverwest.
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Special Needs Swim Time at Ingleside Hotel
Families with special needs are invited to enjoy a warm, welcoming swim session at a discounted rate.
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ALL WEEKEND LONG
Villain Arts Tattoo Festival
Tattoo artists, live entertainment, and vendors take over the Baird Center for a weekend of creativity. Watch contests or get tattooed on-site.
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Mythical Menagerie at The Domes
Explore legendary plants and floral sculptures at The Domes' seasonal show, open through November 9th. Visit on Wednesdays for a free commemorative sticker.
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China Lights at Boerner Botanical Gardens
With more than 40 sets of larger-than-life lantern displays, Boerner Botanical Garden in Whitnall Park will be transformed into a magical forest for the 2025 season.
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Sanctuary City at Next Act Theatre
What would you risk for love? Two immigrant teens search for home in America, and each other, in the Wisconsin Premiere of Martyna Majok’s Sanctuary City at Next Act Theatre. September 10 – October 5, 2025. Buy Tickets Now!
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Oklahoma! at the Fireside Theatre
This bright, brassy, boisterous musical comedy is filled with colorful costumes, breathtaking dancing, side-splitting humor, and a musical score featuring such hits as “People Will Say We’re In Love,” “Surrey With the Fringe On Top,” and the rousing title number “Oklahoma!”
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Martin Amini at Milwaukee Improv
Martin Amini is a stand-up comic based in Los Angeles, California with roots that trace back to Silver Spring, Maryland. Martin draws inspiration for his comedy from his Iranian father and Bolivian mother, delivering a one-of-a-kind blend of humor that resonates with audiences far and wide.
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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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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