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It's going to be a beautiful weekend in Milwaukee! Which makes it a great time to enjoy all that the city has to offer; get outside and head to concerts, makers markets, and even a beer garden or two this weekend. Make your plans today with the Weekend Preview, brought to you by Potawatomi Casino Hotel!
FRIDAY
Ex Fabula All Stars: If I'm Being Honest at The Cooperage
Ex Fabula’s annual all-star event features community members who were voted “Audience Favorites” at regular season StorySlams; they’ll return to the stage to share new, 10-minute stories on the evening’s theme, “If I’m Being Honest…” At the end of the night, the audience votes and crowns a Season 16 Audience Favorite.
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Benmont Tench at Turner Hall Ballroom
Benmont Tench is a founding member of Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers and one of contemporary music’s finest organ players, piano players, anything-with-keys players. In addition to all of the Heartbreakers recordings, Tench has played on records by Stevie Nicks, Willie Nelson, Green Day, Bob Dylan, and more.
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Dan Rodriguez at Vivarium
Dan Rodriguez is a whiskey and beer drinking, fishing and hunting loving, motorcycle riding, quality food eating, hippie sympathizing, hobby farm running, people loving, husband & father who lives in Minneapolis and shares a life with his wife and two adorable sons. Songwriting, and performing those songs for people, is both his trade and passion. Check him out on Friday night.
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Partner Pick
Mixtape Bingo at No. 3 Dock
Get ready for an unforgettable night where the thrill of bingo meets the heartbeat of your favorite songs. Mixtape Bingo isn't your grandma’s game—it’s a high-energy mashup of music, prizes, and good vibes with a live DJ spinning unpredictable rounds that'll keep you on your toes.
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Mommy & Me Special Swim at The Ingleside Hotel
This two-hour swim is not just for Moms! Dads, Grandparents, Aunts and Uncles are encouraged to bring little ones for a daytime swim on select Fridays from 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.
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The History of Craft Brewing in Wisconsin at Pabst Mansion
Head to Pabst Mansion for a fascinating lecture on the rich history of craft brewing in Wisconsin, a state known for its deep-rooted beer culture. From the early immigrant brewers who shaped the industry to the modern craft beer renaissance, this talk will explore the evolution of brewing traditions, innovations, and the passionate people behind Wisconsin’s beloved breweries.To enhance the experience, the lecture will be accompanied by a curated sampling of locally crafted beers, thoughtfully paired with Wisconsin cheese, artisanal sausages, and decadent chocolates.
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Javier Santiago at The Jazz Estate
Los Angeles based pianist and composer Javier Santiago is one of the most promising voices in the international music scene today. As an accomplished educator, arranger, and producer/beatmaker, Santiago has become a notable force in both the beat and hip-hop scenes as well as in the jazz world.
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The Moth: Only in Milwaukee at Anodyne Coffee Roasters
Prepare a five-minute tale of events that transpired in your town that couldn’t happen elsewhere. Secret histories or local mysteries. Tourist traps or hidden gems. Your adventures to the notorious makeout spot, your segment in the local paper, or your run-in with an infamous mayor.
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Shaken & Stirred: A Great Lakes Distillery Experience
When you have friends and family over for the evening, do you enjoy being the bartender? Have you ever wondered about the history of the classic cocktails you mix? With Shaken & Stirred at Great Lakes Distillery, discover more about these classic cocktails and how they have traversed time and space. However, you won’t just be tasting these classic drinks, you will be mixing three of them yourself.
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ADULT. Plack Blague, Choke Chain, Goth Barge at Cactus Club
With over 23 years working and a sprawling discography to show for that labor, Adam Lee Miller and Nicola Kuperus have spent their entire career as ADULT. obscuring any defined genre or style, writing and recording albums as art for life’s sake.
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1984 with Paul H at X-Ray Arcade
Get ready to dance! 1984 brings you the best in Darkwave, Goth, Post Punk & Industrial dance music.
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Shadeseeker, Zang!, The Crooked Rugs at Falcon Bowl
Get ready for a night of trippy, funk-infused rock, as Shadeseeker, Zang! and The Crooked Rugs head to Falcon Bowl. The night will also feature live visuals from Rare Visions Liquid Lights.
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Sam Llanas at Linneman's
Sam Llanas is an iconic American singer, acoustic guitarist, and songwriter. Best known for his unique and distinctively soulful voice, Llanas burst onto the national music scene in 1986 as part of a popular group from Waukesha, with a debut album produced by T. Bone Burnett.
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Reaper & Beacon: Stimulate Tour at the Miramar Theatre
Producers and DJ Reaper is on tour, and he'll head up a night of five DJs at the Miramar Theatre, with additional sets from Ziimba, Physicill and Tantra, Ausboss, and <It Girl/>.
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SATURDAY
Alan Jackson Last Call: One More for the Road Tour at Fiserv Forum
“Fans know when they come to my shows, they’re going to hear the songs that made me who I am – the ones they love,” said Alan Jackson. The Last Call: One More for the Road Tour will find the three-time CMA Entertainer of the Year thrilling audiences as fans relive hits like “Chattahoochee” and “It’s Five O’Clock Somewhere” and many more.
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Big Truck Day at Red Arrow Park
For the fourth year in a row, Milwaukee Downtown BID #21 is partnering with the City of Milwaukee to host Big Truck Day. The free event provides kids and families with the opportunity to explore dozens of big rigs from the Department of Public Works, Milwaukee Fire Department, Milwaukee Police Department, and Milwaukee County Transit System. In addition to the sights and sounds, kids can partake in arts and crafts, free face painting, bubble playtime, character photo ops and more.
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Partner Pick
Armed Forces Day Celebration at the Harley-Davidson Museum
Honor our brave U.S. military heroes with us on Saturday from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. featuring the Wisconsin Warrior Challenge, interactive military displays and the Support the Troops Ride.
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Bingo Loco at Turner Hall Ballroom
Bingo Loco has taken the world by storm with sold-out shows in 200 locations around the globe! They've flipped the traditional game of bingo on its head and turned it into a 3-hour-long interactive stage show complete with dance-offs, rave rounds, lip sync battles, throwback anthems, confetti showers, and prizes ranging from international holidays to cars, air fryers, lawnmowers, and so much more!
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Celebrate Diversity 2025 at Milwaukee County Zoo
Diversity is nature’s greatest strength. It should be ours too. This unique event highlights nature’s diversity and focuses on increasing our connection to both nature and community. The fun includes exploring a section of the Zoo’s forest and browsing a sustainability market!
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Cream City Clay 10th Anniversary: A Decade of Clay
This free, family-friendly event is open to the public. Activities will include hands-on wheel throwing and hand-building demonstrations, face painting, games, and a smash tent. Al Pastor Mexican Restaurant and Perspective Brewing will be on location selling food and beverages. Attendees are encouraged to participate in an on-site Raku firing to raise funds for studio renovations and scholarships for community members.
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Explorium Third Ward BBQ Bash
Explorium Brewpub will be smoking meats all day with a BBQ buffet, live music, games, raffles and Canine Cupids adoptable puppies from 4-7 p.m.!
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Punk Rock Rummage Sale at X-Ray Arcade
Are you looking for vintage, vinyl and more? Come to Cudahy's X-Ray Arcade for the Punk Rock Rummage Sale, where you'll find everything from that album you really wanted to a spiked belt that goes with (just about) any outfit.
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Partner Pick
Neon Brush Kids: A Family-Friendly Art Experience
At Neon Brush, you and your little ones can discover the magic of neon painting in a one-of-a-kind art experience. It’s the perfect family outing!
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Raptor Encounter at Schlitz Audubon Nature Center
Go to the Great Hall of the Schlitz Audubon Visitor Center to meet birds from their Raptor Program! Speakers will talk about the specific skills, traits, and adaptations that are unique to that bird. The Raptor Program educates about raptor ecology, conservation, and these birds’ important roles in the ecosystem. Their collection emphasizes raptors – hawks, owls, eagles, and falcons – but also includes an American Crow.
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Take it Outside Day - Camping Basics at Urban Ecology Center
Come to the Riverside Park Urban Ecology Center for an opportunity to learn the basics of overnight camping! They'll host several hands-on learning stations, including: packing and preparedness, cooking at camp, how to set up a tent, dress for the weather, pack a snack, and bring your family/friends for this unique opportunity to connect with people and nature in the city!
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Outpost Community Creatives
Outpost will have the next installment of their Community Creatives series in Milwaukee, Bay View, Mequon, and Wauwatosa. It’s a chance for shoppers to discover the hidden gems, local treasures, and the rising stars who make our community the vibrant and soulful place that it is. Community Creatives is a festival for the senses, from eyes and ears to tongues and tummies as local vendors are also on hand with pickles, jams, snacks, sweet treats, teas, and more to drink and eat. It’s all about supporting and lifting local creatives and entrepreneurs from diverse backgrounds.
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The Taylor Party: Taylor Swift Night at Vivarium
There's nothing better than being surrounded by singing Swifties! You'll lose your voice and it will be so worth it.
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UHBC 9th Anniversary Block Party
Urban Harvest Brewing Company is taking the anniversary party outside to the streets of South 5th! The soundtrack for the day will be provided by Deadelijk from 3-6 p.m. and BeBe's Bistro Food Truck will be there to join the party!
Event Info
Kohl's Design It! Lab at Discovery World
Bring the whole family to the Kohl’s Design It! Lab to make wonderfully creative projects that you can take home. You’ll choose a project from the rotating menu and they’ll guide you through the creation process. Projects can take anywhere from 5-20 minutes.
Event Info
Tophy at The Wicked Hop
Every Saturday night, Milwaukee's own Tophy curates the sounds at The Wicked Hop in the Third Ward. Join at the Jackalope Lounj for a free night of dancing to all of your favorites including throwback pop, hip hop and much more.
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Gems Only: 2 Year Anniversary Bash at The Cooperage
Hosted by DJ Gemini Gilly, Gems only is back with their first event of spring/summer dates, and they’re celebrating their 2-year anniversary! Celebrate two years bringing joy, creativity and connection into a growing community!
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Callahan & Witscher, Ellee Grimm, 1996, Apollo Vermouth, Gem Fumigation Spa at Cactus Club
Jeff Witscher has been one of the most daring voices in underground American music for two decades, highlighted by releases on Pan and NNA Tapes. Jack Callahan’s focused, uncompromising approach to sound caught the attention of both Demdike Stare’s DDS label and Swiss composer Jürg Frey, who took Callahan on as his first composition student.
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Catbite, Rodeo Boys, Something To Do at X-Ray Arcade
In the heart of Philadelphia, there's a band that's been igniting the ska scene with their infectious beats and killer hooks. They go by the name of Catbite, and they're here to make you dance, sing, and fall head over heels for ska all over again.
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Sushi Cowboy, Grain Elevator, Well + Good at Linneman's
Sushi Cowboy is an energetic rock band hailing from Milwaukee. Their music blends elements of blues, alternative, indie, folk, and classic rock.
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Sad Boy Saturday at the Miramar Theatre
Ready to relive the Warped Tour days? Join your fellow elder emos and belt out your favorite pop punk and emo songs from throughout the years at Sad Boy Saturday!
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SUNDAY
Paul Simon in Concert: A Quiet Celebration
The incomparable Paul Simon brings A Quiet Celebration Tour to the Riverside Theater in Milwaukee for two nights of intimate performances. The legendary singer/songwriter will present the live debut of Seven Psalms as well as a celebration of his timeless classics you know and love.
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Kohl’s Family Sundays: Strike a Pose! at Milwaukee Art Museum
Gather together with family and friends to explore how movement, fashion, and expression can share a story.Meet local artists Nohemí Chavez, Katie Gamb, and Jovanny Hernandez. Ignite your creative side with hands-on art projects inspired by the feature exhibition The Brilliance of the Spanish World: El Greco, Velázquez, Zurbarán.Experience the music of the Latino Arts Strings Program Guitar Orchestra and more.
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Maifest 2025 at Lakefront Brewery
Lakefront invites everyone, gluten intolerant or not, to come down to their premiere springtime outdoor festival and embrace the incoming warm weather. Over 30 vendors will be featuring all gluten-free food items, and nine delicious food trucks will be serving exclusively gluten-free menus.
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Partner Pick
Milwaukee Makers Market at The Ivy House
Milwaukee Makers Market is a celebration of the city’s creators and our local community. Find 45+ small businesses and an incredible plethora of artisanal, hand-crafted, local products.
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Milwaukee Admirals vs. Texas Stars Watch Parties at Major Goolsbys and Steny's Lake Country
If you aren’t going to make the trip to Austin for the Admirals' playoff series with the Texas Stars, you can watch them with your favorite Admirals fans! The team will be hosting two free viewing party for both games one and two. They'll have drink and food specials and raffle prizes at both places!
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Rooftop Yoga at the Vue
Experience yoga with stunning views of the Milwaukee skyline! Head to the Vue, located on the top floor of the Hyatt Regency, for a yoga session where you can enjoy the breathtaking cityscape. This one-of-a-kind experience includes slow-paced movements and deep relaxation, making it a perfect class for all levels.
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Namaste at The X-Ray Arcade
This installment of punk rock yoga is part of X-Ray Arcade's series of fundraiser events, and in this case Sarah at Healium Hot Yoga has chosen to send every dollar of ticket sales toward their accessible entryway construction project.
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Spring Sip 'n Shop Maker's Market at Sprecher Brewery
Shop 20 local Makers while you sip on locally made sodas, beers, and snacks!
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Special Needs Swim at The Ingleside Hotel
The Springs Water Park will offer a special swim from 4-7 p.m. on select Sundays for children and adults with special needs. A special rate is applicable for special needs individuals and up to four others (parent, siblings and/or therapist).
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Samuel Huston, *aya, FTBK, WillOnWater, Keyba at Cactus Club
Samuel Huston has found a way to seamlessly blend elements of Hip/hop, R&b, & Pop; speaking on the traumas of growing up in Milwaukee, dealing with deaths of close ones, heartbreak, and etc. Samuel Huston brings visceral feelings of heartbreak and betrayal over a thumping rhythm and meandering electronica.
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Size 5's, The DUI's, The Malones, Rabid Wreck at X-Ray Arcade
Follow the musical ventures of Juan Avalos, Ryan Larsh, Joe Martinez & Mike Meyers of punk band Size 5's while they present their high energy, raw emotion and heartfelt attitude every time they hit the stage.
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Maul, Yotuma, Futile Act, Sublet at Sabbatic
Metal, hardcore, punk and more come together at Sabbatic on Sunday for an early show featuring Maul from North Dakota, along with three bands from Milwaukee and Madison.
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ALL WEEKEND LONG
Milwaukee Brewers vs. Minnesota Twins
The Brewers are back in town for another homestand, and this time they'll take on another familiar Midwest team when they face the Minnesota Twins in interleague play. Let's go Brewers!
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Wisconsin Card Show at Baird Center
Card collector? Head to Baird Center for nearly 300 tables of exhibitors, an autograph pavilion and an amazing list of signers. The initial convention is in the heart of Milwaukee with thousands and thousands of square feet to grow!
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Partner Pick
Curious George: Let’s Get Curious! at Discovery World
In a new exhibit, Curious George: Let’s Get Curious! will introduce young children to Curious George’s world and lead visitors on a fun, meaningful, interactive math, science, and engineering-based adventure
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Milwaukee Metal Fest at The Rave
Are you ready to bang your head and throw your fist in the air? Of course you are. The Milwaukee Metal Fest returns to The Rave all weekend, with heavy bands taking over all of the venue's stages. Get your tickets or three-day passes today!
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Tea and Tulips at Mitchell Park Domes
Inspired by the classical beauty of English gardens, “Tea and Tulips,” the spring floral show at The Domes, features stunning tea-inspired garden art. The Show Dome is filled with hyacinths, tulips, and daffodils galore. Garden vignettes display hydrangeas, Asiatic lilies, and an assortment of popular tea herbs. Treat yourself to spring with a floral show that’s sure cause a stir!
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Maifest in Germantown
Maifest, the traditional German celebration of spring, returns to Germantown. This community celebration opens at 5 p.m. with German music by The Wunder-Bars and delicious food, including a fish fry. Country act Bella Cain will be there, as well.
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Circle Mirror Transformation at Next Act Theatre
Breathe in. Breathe out. Start again. Four lost New Englanders enroll in Marty’s community center drama class to experiment with theatre games and try to find meaning in their lives. Over the course of six weeks, hearts are quietly torn apart and tiny wars of epic proportions are waged and won. Annie Baker’s beautifully-crafted diorama of a comedy shows us, with terrific detail and clarity, the hilarious sadness of a motley quintet.
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Choices of Consequence: Denmark and the Holocaust at Milwaukee Jewish Museum
Explore "Choices of Consequence: Denmark and the Holocaust" at the Jewish Museum Milwaukee from February 14 to May 25. This exhibit, featuring powerful photos, artifacts, and personal stories, highlights how ordinary Danes saved 95% of Danish Jews through courage and resistance.
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Ashley Gavin at Milwaukee Improv
Ashley Gavin has been featured on Comedy Central, Netflix, Just For Laughs, and more. Her critically acclaimed YouTube special has amassed over 1 million views. She’s best known for her viral social media clips, where her bold, raw audience interactions, authenticity, and relentless energy set her apart.
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Skyler Higley at The Laughing Tap
You've seen Skyler Higley on Comedy Central, Conan, The Onion and more! Now you can see his standup in person this weekend at The Laughing Tap.
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Parallel Play: The Art of Science
Parallel Play was created as an integral component of Marquette’s Biology class, Creative Problem Solving. This cross-disciplinary course teaches STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) students to embrace divergent thinking as a path to innovative problem solving. Through art-based activities and small group interactions with artists and STEM faculty, the class emphasizes the similarities between the creative processes of scientists and artists.
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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
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
