It's a three-day weekend for many Milwaukee parents, which means an extra day to giddyup and get out of the house. Check out one of these family-fun activities, like the beach, a circus or a play about pirates.

FRIDAY

CIRCUS IS IN TOWN
It's an experience from the classic childhood. The Shrine Circus comes to town this weekend with two shows Friday night. The lights go on in the big tent, known as the Waukesha County Expo Center, at 4:30 and 7 p.m.
http://www.onmilwaukee.com/events/event-95827.html

SATURDAY

THE BEACH IS OPEN!
Summer must be here because Bradford Beach is open and ready to provide free entertainment for the whole family.
http://www.onmilwaukee.com/events/event-95819.html

ALL WEEKEND LONG

FAMILY KITE FESTIVAL
Hopefully, Milwaukee transforms into the windy city this weekend for the Family Kite Festival at Veterans Park. Check out a huge inventory of aviation and flying gifts, videos, kites, and garden spinners.
http://www.giftofwings.com

WORLD OF CHOCOLATE AND CANDY
A favorite from your childhood, "Willy Wonka" is on stage this weekend. The world's greatest candy factory springs to life when the Modjeska Youth Theater Company presents Roald Dahl's "Willy Wonka."
http://www.onmilwaukee.com/events/event-94883.html

"HOW I BECAME A PIRATE" ENDS SUNDAY
Really, who doesn't want to be a pirate? When young Jeremy Jacobs and his exceptional digging skills are recruited by Captain Braid Beard for treasure burying purposes, Jeremy thinks the pirate life is for him. Check out First Stage's "How I Become a Pirate" this weekend. Call (414) 273-7206.