Illuminating the Hoan Bridge was a genius, “why-didn’t-we-do-this-25-years ago” idea. It adds an enormous visual, artistic element to our skyline and simultaneously serves as a beacon of community and support.
Non-profit organization Light the Hoan made it happen in 2020, and after four years of enjoying the Hoan’s glow from the shore, it’s time to light the other side so those approaching Milwaukee by water witness our radiance upon arrival.
Hence, Hoancoming – formerly called “Hoanchella” – returns to land and on water this Saturday, Aug. 17. The event will raise funds for community programs, bridge maintenance and the lighting of the east side of the Hoan Bridge. The fun starts at 2 p.m.
“We are expanding this year’s activities and offering more opportunities for the community to celebrate the fresh coast with us,” says the Executive Director of Light the Hoan, Erika Smith.
Light The Hoan is a collective of local business and civic leaders who joined forces to illuminate the Daniel Hoan Memorial Bridge. “Light The Hoan is a symbol of pride and unity for the city of Milwaukee,” says Smith.
The full schedule for Hoancoming is below. Some of the events are ticketed and some are free. Tickets for the popular retro cruise with DJ Vega are still available here. Can't make the event? Donations and bulb dedications can also be made right here.
Large Events
Kayak Crawl led by FunkClub Wagon
Jerry's Docks, 318 S. Water St.
3-5 p.m.
Meet at Jerry’s Docks to grab a kayak or canoe and paddle to and from the Lakefront Brewery led by Captain Dan and the Dinghies aboard the FunkToon. Participants can also use personal kayaks and meet up along the way. Go here for more info and to make a reservation.
Boat Parade
Discovery World, 500 N. Harbor Dr.
6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Bring your own boat to the Hoancoming Boat Parade or climb aboard the Retro Cruise with DJ Vega. (The DJ Shawna Cruise is sold out.) Get tickets to the Retro Cruise with DJ Vega here.)
6:30 p.m. – Depart Discovery World, head up river toward Manpower Group (all boats except cruises).
7:30 p.m. – Boats turn around at Manpower Group, right before Cherry Street Bridge. DJ Shawna "Good Vibes" Cruise departs from Edelweiss dock and DJ Vega Retro Cruise departs from The MKE Boat Line.
8:30 p.m. - Light show, drone show and fireworks.
MKE With Kids Stage at Pere Marquette Park
900 N. Plankinton Ave.
2 p.m. to 4 p.m.
This is a free, family-friendly event featuring a Kid Boogie Down Dance Party, Pete’s Pops, Sugar Spun Cotton Candy, drawing contests and children’s games. It’s also a great spot to view the Kayak Crawl. Go here to RSVP.
Sound By Design Stage at Erie Street Plaza
665 E. Erie St.
5 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Enjoy DJ sets, a photobooth, and stunning views of The Hoan Bridge, The Boat Parade and light show. Go here to RSVP.
Viewing & After Party at Boone & Crockett
818 S. Water St.
4 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Experience beats by DJ Erich, video projection from OnMilwaukee, The Boat Parade, Hoan Show and giveaways in the White Claw tent.
VIP Event
Lakeshore State Park VIP Area sponsored by Zizzo Group Engagement Marketing
2:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Sponsor a VIP boat slip, invite some friends or host some clients and enjoy a day along the Milwaukee skyline with live music, private catering, swag giveaways and be a part of The Boat Parade. To register go here.
Intimate events
Edelweiss Historic Narrated Boat Tour
205 W. Highland Ave.
1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Travel through Downtown Milwaukee’s inner and outer harbors by boat. A member of Historic Milwaukee, Inc. will narrate the adventure. A cash bar will be available. Grab a ticket here.
Milwaukee Scavenger Pontoon Cruise
The Starling, 102 N. Water St.
3 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Hop aboard a pontoon and uncover secrets of Milwaukee with author of “Milwaukee Scavenger” Jenna Kashou. Go here to purchase a ticket to this family-friendly cruise.
Milwaukee Downtown / BID #21 Stage at Chase Bank Plaza
111 E. Wisconsin Ave.
3 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Enjoy the finale of Light Lane, a pedal-powered art installation on the Riverwalk, along with bubble art from Bubble Lady, Michelle Hackett, and more arts programming.
Lakefront Brewery Stage
1872 N. Commerce St.
2 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Come for the craft beer, regional eats and live music on a patio overlooking the river. Find the schedule below and more information here.
2 p.m. – Jacob Slade
4 p.m. – Micah Olsan
6 p.m. – Hanna Simone w/ Elly Bird
The Harp Stage
113 E. Juneau Ave.
3 p.m. to 7 p.m.
The Harp will serve up food, beverages, live music from Jack Reed (3 p.m. to 7 p.m.) and prime viewing of both the kayak parade and boat parade.
“Whether you’re a Milwaukeean, an arts aficionado, a parent, boat owner, local resident or a visitor, there’s something for everyone,” says Smith.
Molly Snyder started writing and publishing her work at the age 10, when her community newspaper printed her poem, "The Unicorn.” Since then, she's expanded beyond the subject of mythical creatures and written in many different mediums but, nearest and dearest to her heart, thousands of articles for OnMilwaukee.
Molly is a regular contributor to FOX6 News and numerous radio stations as well as the co-host of "Dandelions: A Podcast For Women.” She's received five Milwaukee Press Club Awards, served as the Pfister Narrator and is the Wisconsin State Fair’s Celebrity Cream Puff Eating Champion of 2019.
