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While we may be done wearing white, we're not done celebrating all that Milwaukee has to offer! There's so much happening in the city this weekend, including big concerts, farmers markets, community events and more. The weekend starts now with the Weekend Preview, brought to you by Potawatomi Casino Hotel!
FRIDAY
Firefly Fridays at Firefly Grove Park
Celebrate summer every Friday from 5-8 p.m. at Firefly Grove Park with food trucks, live music, craft play, and a pop-up beer tent from Vennture Brewing. This weekly community event runs through September 26 and offers a great way to unwind and connect.
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The Black Keys, The Heavy Heavy at BMO Pavilion
The Black Keys are back in Milwaukee on the "No Rain, No Flowers" tour, and they're stronger than ever. Catch a special show at BMO Pavilion with special guests The Heavy Heavy.
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Art of Seasoning Workshop with The Spice House
Join The Grey House and The Spice House for a fun, interactive session about flavor and spice. Attendees will taste different seasonings, learn how to blend them into meals and desserts, and leave with a special take-home blend. The workshop is perfect for food lovers of all experience levels.
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Live Band Karaoke at Paulie's
Take the spotlight at Paulie’s during Live Band Karaoke, where you can sing your favorite songs backed by a full band. This high-energy, monthly event offers a lively crowd and unforgettable experience for performers and fans alike.
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Partner Pick
Paddle & Pour: Kayak Hubbard Park to Lakefront Brewery
This guided kayak trip begins and ends at Lakefront Brewery with a scenic paddle down the Milwaukee River in between. The event includes a shuttle, equipment rental, and a drink stop at Hubbard Park Beer Garden. It’s best suited for intermediate paddlers ready for a little adventure.
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TuneMaster Music Bingo at Sprecher Brewery
Play music-themed bingo with a twist—match 45-second song clips to your bingo card and compete for prizes. Each game has a different format, genre, or theme. The event includes up to six rounds, so there are plenty of chances to win and sing along.
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Live Magic at Wizard Works Brewing
Magician Chris Ivanovich brings his award-winning act to the bar with mind-reading, money tricks, and comedy. Grab a drink and enjoy an up-close magic performance that’s equal parts skill and humor.
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Partner Pick
Boots 'N Beats at The Rave
Boots 'N Beats is taking over Milwaukee on September 5th for a one-of-a-kind night of Country-EDM! The night will feature a live country opener playing your favorite hits, followed by a headlining Country-EDM DJ set. Grab your cowboy hats, your dancing boots, and let’s hear you sing!
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The Messthetics, James Brandon Lewis, Yr Knives at Cactus Club
The last time drummer Brendan Canty and bassist Joe Lally were in a band together, they were the rhythmic architects for Fugazi, an organization whose decade and a half of disciplined progressivism provided a necessary bridge between the zenith of late-punk expression and everything alternative in rock that followed. In 2016, the two were enlisted by guitarist Anthony Pirog in a conspiracy to subvert and reimagine the power trio, bringing it fully into the 21st Century.
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Daft Disko: A French House & Disco Party at The Cooperage
Do you like all things Daft Punk, Justice, Air and more? Get into your indie sleaze era with a French EDM themed night of dancing at The Cooperage.
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Tommy Electra & Friends: Late Night Spin at Cactus Club
Local beats and eletronica wizardry are the Friday night vibes. Ideal for folks who like good music.
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Mosleys 2.0 at Linneman's
Mike Fredrickson, Dave Braun, Bob Jennings, Bruce Dean, and special guest Rob Gjersoe join forces in The Mosleys 2.0 for a very special night of music the first Friday of September!
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Living In Oblivion: Dark 80's and 90's Video Dance Party at X-Ray Arcade
DJ Synthia’s got you covered with a night of synthpop, post-punk, and goth bangers, complete with the music videos you forgot you were obsessed with.
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SATURDAY
Silver City Fest
This multicultural street festival showcases food, music, art, and local vendors on National Avenue. Celebrate Milwaukee’s diversity at this free family event.
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All Wright: A Day Like No Other at Taliesin Estate
Wright in Wisconsin presents a rare chance to explore the Taliesin Estate with exclusive VIP access on Saturday. The tour includes private entry to Wright’s residence, Hillside Drafting Studio, Tan-y-Deri, the Windmill, and more. Space is limited and the site will be closed to the public that day.
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Club XCX at Vivarium
Milwaukee angels are invited to Club XCX for a bratty pop night like no other. Expect bold beats, fun vibes, and a lively dance floor.
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Wildflowers on the Water
Sincerely in Song hosts the 3rd Annual Wildflowers on the Water at Lakeshore State Park—a free, family-friendly celebration of community, nature, and the arts. Presented in collaboration with Friends of Lakeshore State Park, our Sustainability Partner, Rock the Green, and the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, this inspiring event brings Milwaukeeans together to uplift Wisconsin’s only free urban state park through live music, local art, interactive activities, and a strong message of community connection.
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Creative Grounds Vendor Fair
Support local makers and small businesses at this free event hosted by Uptown Society and Kuumba Juice & Coffee. Enjoy 40+ vendors, live pro wrestling by House of Headlocks, food, drinks, and a strong community vibe.
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DJ Goose at Potawatomi Casino Hotel
Catch DJ Goose spinning a genre-spanning set that keeps the crowd engaged and moving. As a Midwest favorite, Goose has performed for the Milwaukee Bucks, MKE NYE, and more.
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Open Decks Series at Cactus Club
All people of all levels of familiarity with digital DJing are invited, and guidance for the equipment will be readily available. Bring a USB with your music loaded. Play a couple tracks, chat about production and hear new music.
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Eagle Park Oktoberfest
Celebrate Oktoberfest with live music, festive competitions, new beer and spirits, and family-friendly fun. Pets welcome. Free admission and rain or shine.
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Felipe Esparza: At My Leisure World Tour at Turner Hall Ballroom
Comedian Felipe Esparza brings his Netflix-famous act to town as part of his latest tour. Known for his witty style and big laughs, this show is not to be missed.
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Flip Side Festival of the Arts
Held in Bucyrus Commons, this all-day fest includes food, beer, art, music, yoga, and bounce houses. Funds raised support South Milwaukee community programs.
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From Milwaukee With Love
This three-day literary event celebrates romance books and local authors. It’s financially accessible and packed with fun activities, panels, and author meetups in partnership with Milwaukee Public Library and others.
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Generación Activa 2025
Experience a bilingual outdoor market where kids become entrepreneurs for a day. Enjoy family fitness, cultural performances, raffles, snacks, and community fun.
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Milwaukee Polka Riot at Linneman's
The Milwaukee Polka Riot is America's first (and as far as we know) only alternative polka festival. Whether you like it or not, The Milwaukee Polka Riot is an annual festival showcasing a host of amazing, off-kilter bands you’re unlikely to see all in one place, anywhere else.
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ROA at The Rave
ROA is the moniker of Latin urban music singer Gilberto Figueroa. Around 2020 he began to release singles, developing a unique brand of romantic trap and reggaeton with R&B and soul influences that stood out among the ultra-crowded Puerto Rican urban scene.
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Partner Pick
Sept 6 - 7 · Sat, 10am - 6pm & Sun 10am - 5pm
FREE Don't miss the grand launch of 600+ kites at noon! Be entertained by the super giant Whales, Sharks, Octopuses and the all-new 120-foot Trilobite. Be dazzled by the precision kite-flying teams from California, Chicago and Canada. Join in the fun with your own kites during the Mad City Windows and Baths Kids Mad Dash. Learn more
R&B Live Milwaukee at The Cooperage
Do you want to swing through your Sunday in style? Enjoy the smooth sounds of Milwaukee's live R&B band on Sunday night at The Cooperage!
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Layman Brewing’s 5th Anniversary Beer Garden Bash
Celebrate Layman Brewing’s milestone with polka music, a pig roast, beer specials, and anniversary desserts in their soon-to-open beer garden.
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Maa Vue and The Dream Carrier
Enjoy a theatrical concert filled with music, dance, and storytelling inspired by Hmong heritage. Maa Vue shares her community’s voice in a powerful, heartfelt performance.
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Meet Me On North: A Romance Bookcrawl
Stroll North Avenue in East Tosa and meet 70+ romance authors and vendors. No tickets needed—stop by anytime from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. for books, chats, and local charm.
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MKE Strength in the City Wellness Fest
This wellness festival features 20+ fitness classes, local vendors, food, and wellness services. A portion of ticket sales supports under-resourced communities.
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Oktoberfest at Third Space Innovation Brewhouse
Menomonee Falls welcomes its first Oktoberfest with contests, live music, themed beers, and pretzel-inspired brews. Come ready to yodel, hoist a stein, and dance.
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Rosé and Bouquet
Create a custom floral bouquet while sipping three rosés with The Ruby Tap and Aromatic Acres. Only 50 spots available—reserve early for this popular TosaFest experience.
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UHBC 2025 Block Party #3
The third UHBC block party features live music from The Heartland Howlers, a new beer release, and food from Roll MKE. A perfect hangout for craft beer fans.
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Walk For Wishes 2025
Raise funds for children with critical illnesses at this nationwide event. Enjoy games, food trucks, and live entertainment while supporting a meaningful cause.
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Wildflowers on the Water Festival
Celebrate local art, music, and nature at Lakeshore State Park. Hosted by Sincerely in Song, this event supports Milwaukee’s lakefront destination with a creative touch.
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Build Your Own Bouquet Bar (BYOB)
Stop by 414loral Studio any Saturday to build a bouquet from fresh seasonal stems. Prices are per stem, and no reservation is required.
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Elegant Farmer Autumn Harvest Festival
Pick apples and pumpkins, ride a train, try the corn maze, and enjoy cider and fall treats at this classic family festival in East Troy.
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Kohl’s Design It! Lab
Families can drop in to make take-home creative projects from a rotating menu. Each hands-on activity takes 5–20 minutes and is suitable for all ages.
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It's a 2000's Party at The Rave
This electrifying event celebrates the iconic 2000s era, featuring the decade's biggest hits across pop, hip-hop, and rock genres. Embrace the Y2K fashion and culture as you dance the night away to tunes from Britney Spears, Eminem, and more.
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Secret Market at Brookfield Square Mall
Held the first weekend of each month, this vendor market at Brookfield Square Mall features over 90 booths with vintage finds, live music, and snacks.
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Tosa Farmers Market
An open-air market in Wauwatosa supports local farmers, food producers, and artisans. This weekly event focuses on sustainability and community.
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Socially Suspect, Chapped Lips, Calicoloco, Well + Good at Cactus Club
Formed in March 2022, Socially Suspect has garnered attention around Milwaukee for their unpredictable sound and lively performances. With influences spanning genres including progressive rock, pop punk, power pop, and jazz fusion, Socially Suspect brings a unique brand of alt-rock to Milwaukee.
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Ace Parker, Drudini, $hunmillion$ at Cactus Club
It's a trio of Milwaukee hip hop acts coming together for the late show at Cactus Club on Saturday night, as Ace Parker celebrates a new release.
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Dead7, Zeal, Lilac & Lotus, Coldstate, Haunter at X-Ray Arcade
Dead7 deal in metalcore that’s all haymaker riffs, gut-punch breakdowns, and zero time for catching your breath.
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SUNDAY
Go Pack Go! Green Bay Packers vs. Detroit Lions
The Packers open their 2025-26 season on Sunday when they take on the Detroit Lions. We've compiled our handy-dandy Sports Bar Guide right here, so you can find a new favorite place to belly up to the bar for the game!
Sports Bar Guide
Bouquet Cafe at Happy Day Farmhaus
Spend a peaceful Sunday morning at the farm with coffee, flowers, and friends. Create your own bouquet from flowers grown onsite, surrounded by a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. Kids and non-participants are welcome at no charge.
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MKE Cake Potluck at Story Hill Firehouse
Calling all dessert lovers, home bakers, local bakeries, sweet tooth havers and everyone in between! Show up to share and enjoy sweets on Sunday afternoon. Everyone should bring a cake - homemade or store-bought, and join in on this celebration of sweets at Story Hill Firehouse!
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Candlelight: Featuring Vivaldi’s Four Seasons & More
Enjoy a 65-minute candlelit concert featuring works by Vivaldi, Massenet, Piazzolla, and more, performed by the Listeso String Quartet at The Abbey at St James 1868. Tickets include assigned seating and a multi-sensory experience in an inspiring venue.
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Partner Pick
Full Band Open Jam with Uncle Don at Nashville North
Join Uncle Don at Nashville North every Sunday for an open jam session. Bring your instrument or voice and play on a fully lit stage with some of Milwaukee’s most seasoned musicians.
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Green Fest MKE
Held at Tripoli Shrine Center, Green Fest MKE 2025 offers hands-on demos, family activities, and green living panels. Explore eco-conscious products, food, fashion, and entertainment for a full day of inspiration.
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High Tea with Chef Courtney
Enjoy an elegant high tea at Lupi & Iris, crafted by Executive Pastry Chef Courtney Beyer. Expect scones, petit fours, and tea sandwiches in a luxurious setting.
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Make Art MKE
Hosted on the Mount Mary campus, this revived art fair features over 160 artists and makers, food trucks, and a lounge. Proceeds benefit Cooper Park and local art programming.
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MKE Cake Potluck, Round Two at Story Hill Firehouse
Bring a whole cake and your sweet tooth for this one-of-a-kind dessert potluck. This afternoon event includes timed rounds to sample a wide variety of cakes.
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Walker Square Farmers Market
This revived community market in Walker Square Park offers local produce, handmade goods, and live music. It's a celebration of fresh food and neighborhood connection.
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Pilates in the Park
Join Anointed Hands for a complimentary 45-minute Pilates session in the park. Open to all levels, these guided classes offer a great way to move and enjoy the outdoors.
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Riverwest Farmers Market
Held Sundays on the 2700 block of Pierce Street, this market features fresh produce, local honey, baked goods, and more. It’s a staple for anyone seeking natural and local items.
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Altar De Fey, Choke Chain, Paralyze at X-Ray Arcade
Come light a candle and lose yourself in the fog. X-Ray has a goth party for you to get into.
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Pareidolia, Milby, Toyboxes, Night Again at Falcon Bowl
Four buzzing indie acts take over the stage in Riverwest at Falcon Bowl!
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ALL WEEKEND LONG
Kinetic Gardens 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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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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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