2026 EVENTS
Find internships and jobs to build experience
Find local events for young people
Learn more about youth programming
MULTIPLE DATES / ONGOING
MKE Youth Artscape Exhibition
February 2026-June 2026 (Opening Reception: February 11, 2026), Ascension Columbia St. Mary’s Hospital, 2301 N. Lake Dr.
MKE Youth Artscape is a six-month professional art exhibition celebrating the creativity and perspectives of Milwaukee-area youth. Selected artwork will be displayed at Ascension Columbia St. Mary’s Hospital from January through June 2026, offering young artists a powerful platform to share their vision with the community.
Jazz in the Park
Thursdays, June 4 - September 24, 2026. Happy hour 5-6 PM; live music 6-9 PM, Cathedral Square Park, 520 E. Wells St.
Milwaukee's largest weekly outdoor music series draws up to 5,000 people for an eclectic lineup spanning jazz, funk, R&B, reggae, blues, salsa, and brass bands. Free admission, food and beverages available for purchase.
Milwaukee Public Museum - Free First Thursdays
Milwaukee Public Museum, 800 W. Wells St.
Kohl's Thank You Thursdays (KTYT) at MPM are back! ALL visitors* (excluding groups) receive FREE access to the permanent exhibits of MPM on the first Thursday of every month during Kohl's Thank You Thursday. *Children must be accompanied by an adult to receive free admission. Admission is free, but we strongly recommend reservations.* Walk-up tickets are not guaranteed.
Betty Brinn Children's Museum - Community Access Days
Third Thursday monthly: June 18, July 16, August 20, 2026 (9 AM-7 PM), Betty Brinn Children's Museum, 929 E. Wisconsin Ave.
FREE admission on the third Thursday of every month. Reservations required; walk-ups subject to availability.
Musical Mondays in Lake Park
FREE Monday concerts July 6 to August 24, from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Lake Park
All concerts take place at the Lake Park Summer Stage, just south of the playground and tennis courts, near 2975 N. Lake Park Rd., which is the restroom building and Lake Park Friends office. In the event of inclement weather, Monday concerts may move indoors to the Marcia Coles Community Room, which is in the lower level of the Lake Park Pavilion, beneath the Lake Park Bistro Restaurant (3133 E. Newberry Blvd.). For current updates, check the Lake Park Friends Facebook page: Lake Park Friends Facebook.
Wonderful Wednesdays in Lake Park
FREE on Wednesdays from July 8 to August 12, from 6:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m. at Lake Park
Wonderful Wednesdays is a series of 6 free concerts geared for children and their families. All concerts take place at the Lake Park Summer Stage, just south of the playground and tennis courts, near 2975 N. Lake Park Rd., which is the restroom building and Lake Park Friends office. Wednesday concerts will be canceled if there is inclement weather. For current updates, check the Lake Park Friends Facebook page: Lake Park Friends Facebook.
LIVE @ the Lakefront
Wednesdays, July 8 - September 2, 2026, 5:30-9 PM, Rotary Amphitheater at Discovery World, 500 N. Harbor Dr.
Free lakefront concert series featuring local and regional artists. 2026 lineup includes Kal Bergendahl Project, Junior Rivera y Su Orquesta, Big Al Dorn & the Blues Howlers, Joseph Huber Band, Irie Sol, Adam Greuel & the Space Burritos, People Brothers Band, and Willy Porter.
Rainbow Summer
July 14-19, Marcus Performing Arts Center, 929 N. Water St.
Rainbow Summer is a free music and art festival that offers six nights of live music, interactive art installations, and free creative activities for the whole community. Rainbow Summer 2026 invites the community to join a festive takeover of the grounds of the Marcus Center, featuring family activities and vendors on the beautiful South Lawn, live music performances on the covered stage of Peck Pavilion, and additional family-friendly activations along the riverwalk leading to KidZ Stage, a dedicated outdoor venue designed specifically for young audiences
Milwaukee Art Museum - Kohl's Family Sundays
Select Sundays throughout summer 2026, 10 AM - 4 PM
Free family programming featuring hands-on art activities and gallery tours. Kids 12 and under receive FREE admission every day.
MAY
Partnership for the Arts and Humanities Showcase!
Friday, May 15, from 4–7 p.m. at North Division High School.
Free and open to the public. Join Milwaukee Recreation for Milwaukee’s largest celebration of youth arts and humanities. This free, family-friendly event features performances, films, visual art, hands-on activities, partner booths, carnival games, refreshments, and a live student Song Lab performance. Attendees can also enter to win giveaways featuring arts and cultural experiences across Milwaukee, including tickets and passes to local attractions, family-friendly activities, creative experiences, gift cards, and a bicycle generously provided by the Wisconsin Bike Fed. Featuring work from 30+ local arts and community organizations, the showcase celebrates the creativity and talent of Milwaukee youth and includes recognition of an Outstanding Young Creative and Teaching Artist of the Year.
Big Truck Day
Saturday, May 16, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Red Arrow Park
This free, family-friendly event is packed with fun and will be bigger and better than ever. Attendees will get an up-close look at a variety of Department of Public Works equipment, including a salt truck, street sweeper, garbage truck, end loader, bucket truck, grapple saw, and more, along with Milwaukee Fire Department engines, Milwaukee Police Department vehicles, and an MCTS bus. There will also be a tree climbing demonstration, face painting, lawn games, arts and crafts, and a character meet and greet. Food trucks and vendors will be on site. The event will also feature a giveaway of 1,000 construction-themed goodie bags, along with child-sized construction hats and safety vests. Opening remarks will begin at 11:15 a.m. alongside Milwaukee Downtown BID 21. There will also be a sensory-friendly hour from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m., with no horns or sirens. Parking is available at the Water Street Parking Structure, 1000 N. Water Street, for just $3.
Milwaukee Peace Week
May 18 – May 23, 2026 - Prevention. Engagement. Action. Connection. Equity.
MKE Peace Week is back and better than ever, and we hope you can join in on the fun. Launched under the leadership of Mayor Cavalier Johnson, Peace Week was created to align and elevate the work already happening across the city to prevent violence, support healing, and strengthen our communities. This week is a coordinated, citywide effort that brings together City departments, community-based organizations, schools, faith leaders, and residents around a shared commitment to building a safer Milwaukee.
With partners including the Department of Community Wellness and Safety, the Milwaukee Police Department, Milwaukee Public Schools, and a broad network of community partners, we’ll amplify youth voices, create space for real conversations, connect people to opportunity, and show what it looks like when a city comes together with purpose.
MPL Summer Reading Kickoff
Saturday, May 30, 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. at Central Library
Gather the whole family to kick off a summer of learning with hands-on activities for kids & teens, special exhibits for all to enjoy, and early registration for the summer reading program. Experience hands-on fun with our special guests and partners: Betty Brinn Children's Museum, Discovery World, Milwaukee Art Museum, Milwaukee Public Museum, and Urban Ecology Center.
JUNE
Ex Fabula - Pride Week Teen StorySlam
Wednesday, June 3 Time: 5:00 PM doors, 5:30 PM stories Location: First Stage, 325 W Walnut St.
Ex Fabula StorySlams are live events where community members connect and share true, personal stories related to the night’s theme, told without props or notes. Come just to listen – or throw your name in the hat for a chance to share a true story!
PrideFest Milwaukee
Thursday-Saturday, June 4-6, 2026 at Henry Maier Festival Park
Wisconsin's largest LGBTQ+ celebration since 1987, featuring five stages, marketplace vendors, health resources, and community programming against Lake Michigan's backdrop. ~$25-30 admission; children 12 and under FREE; military FREE with ID.
Water Lantern Festival
Sunday, June 7, 2026 at Veterans Park, 1010 N. Lincoln Memorial Dr.
Community event where attendees personalize lanterns and release them onto the water at sunset, with food trucks, live music, and activities.
Polish Fest
Friday-Sunday, June 12-14, 2026 at Henry Maier Festival Park
One of America's largest Polish festivals featuring five stages of entertainment, Cultural Village with folk art demonstrations, authentic cuisine, and the Miss Polish Fest Pageant.
Ex Fabula - Teen StoryStretch
Thursday, June 18, 12:45 PM doors, 1:00 PM start, 3:00 PM end, Mitchell Street Library – 906 W. Historic Mitchell St.
Cost: FREE! Own your story! There is only one you, and your story is unique. Discover, shape, and share your stories with confidence. In this workshop, experienced storytelling coaches will guide you through interactive activities covering the need-to-know details of the craft. Working in small groups, you’ll learn effective storytelling skills, connect with other storytellers, and prepare for the upcoming Teen StorySlam on June 23.
Summerfest - Weekend 1
Thursday-Saturday, June 18-20, 2026 at Henry Maier Festival Park
"The World's Largest Music Festival" spans three weekends with 800+ performances on 12 stages across 75 lakefront acres. $25-33 general admission; children 2 and under FREE. Northwestern Mutual Community Park offers family amenities including playground, splash pad, and sensory rooms.
Juneteenth Parade and Festival
Friday, June 19, 2026, 9 AM - 4 PM, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive, Bronzeville
The Jubilee Parade begins at 9 AM, followed by food vendors, speakers, live music, and cultural performances. Free admission.
Ex Fabula - Teen StorySlam
Tuesday, June 23, 2026 Time: 3:30PM doors, 4PM stories. Mitchell Street Library, 906 W Historic Mitchell St.
Ex Fabula StorySlams are live events where community members connect and share true, personal stories related to the night’s theme, told without props or notes. Come just to listen – or throw your name in the hat for a chance to share a true story!
Summerfest - Weekend 2
Thursday-Saturday, June 25-27, 2026 at Henry Maier Festival Park
Second weekend of the World's Largest Music Festival. $25-33 general admission; children 2 and under FREE. Amphitheater concerts sold separately.
JULY
Summerfest - Weekend 3 (Final)
Henry Maier Festival Park, 639 E. Summerfest Place
Final weekend of Summerfest 2026, culminating on Independence Day. 2026 headliners include Ed Sheeran, Post Malone, Jelly Roll, Garth Brooks, and Muse. $25-33 general admission.
July 4th Festivities
Saturday, July 4, 2026 - Parades at 9 AM, Fireworks at 9:15 PM, Milwaukee County Parks throughout the city
A tradition dating back to 1911, Milwaukee has long celebrated the Fourth of July with community events around the city, including parades, picnics, games, talent contests, and fireworks, in celebrating this great American holiday. Fourth of July celebrations will be held at Milwaukee County Parks throughout the city, including: Alcott Park, Enderis Playfield, Gordon Park, Humboldt Park, Jackson Park (fireworks only), King Center, Lake Park, Lincoln Park (fireworks only), Mitchell Park, Washington Park (fireworks only), and Wilson Park.
Bastille Days
Thursday-Sunday, July 9-12, 2026, Cathedral Square Park, 520 E. Wells St.
The festival is free to attend, with food, drinks, souvenirs, and more for purchase. For families, activities will be available specifically for kids from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on Saturday. The free activities and performances include magic acts, juggling tricks, caricature artists, and mini French lessons. The Hop, Milwaukee's free streetcar, stops at the festival grounds.
UWM Planetarium
Every Friday from July 10 - 31, 2026, from 7:00 - 8:00 p.m. each night
Milwaukee's hidden gem, the Manfred Olson Planetarium located in the UW-Milwaukee Physics building, is hosting the planetarium show series Shooting Stars every Friday from July 10 - 31, 2026, from 7:00 - 8:00 p.m. each night. Many know shooting stars as striking trails of light, but their name is misleading since they are neither shooting nor stars. These streaks of light, also known as meteors, are caused by fragments of either comets or asteroids. Find out how to witness these mesmerizing light trails for yourself! The program will include an indoor stargazing session of the night sky followed by the opportunity to ask questions. This event is open to the public. Tickets are $7 general admission.
The Triple Threat Clash Showcase - NSP Sports Group
July 17–19, 2026, Mount Mary University – Bloechl Center
Where high school basketball, culture, and purpose collide. This high-energy showcase delivers nonstop competition on the court while building leaders beyond it spotlighting athletic excellence, mental wellness, leadership, and real-world preparation for life after the game. Kicking off with Hope in Motion: A Triple Threat Clash of Healing, Awareness & Unity on July 16, the weekend sets the tone with powerful conversations, breakout sessions, and community connections that fuel the action to follow. This is more than basketball; it’s impact, exposure, and growth in motion.
German Fest
Friday-Sunday, July 24-26, 2026 at Henry Maier Festival Park
One of North America's largest German festival features authentic food, five music stages, Cultural Village, beer gardens with German brews, the beloved Dachshund Derby, parade, and Sunday fireworks. $20 at gate; children 12 and under FREE; seniors $10; military FREE.
MKE Air & Water Show
Saturday-Sunday, July 25-26, 2026, McKinley Park and Lakefront
The Milwaukee Air & Water Show will bring to Milwaukee and the surrounding areas the thrill of aerial and water-based acrobatics in a wholesome, family-friendly environment. Features the U.S. Navy Blue Angels. Free general admission; reserved paid seating options available.
AUGUST
Black Arts Fest MKE
Saturday, August 1, noon-10 p.m. at Henry Maier Festival Park
Black Arts Fest MKE exists to celebrate the deep roots of African Heritage and the creativity of Black Cultural Arts. This dynamic ethnic festival occurs each year, on the first Saturday of August, on the Summerfest grounds. Black Arts Fest MKE is packed with fun-filled festivities with exciting programming featuring Art, Education, Music, Entertainment, Poetry, Dance, Fashion, Literature, Heritage, Health, Wellness, Community, Cuisine, Vendor Markets and more. The festival strives to educate all and strengthen pride in African ancestry. Come on out! Bring the kids, your peers, and the elders to this multi-generational experience.
Milwaukee Irish Fest
Thursday-Sunday, August 13-16, 2026 at Henry Maier Festival Park
One of the world's largest celebration of Celtic music and culture, recognized by the Smithsonian as "the best Irish cultural event in North America," features 18 stages of entertainment across four days. $23-27 admission; children 12 and under FREE; Thursday $10.
Mexican Fiesta
Friday-Sunday, August 21-23, 2026 at Henry Maier Festival Park
One of the Midwest's largest Hispanic festival celebrates Mexican and Latin American culture with six stages, mariachi bands, authentic cuisine, car shows, parade, and the famous jalapeño eating contest. ~$20-25 admission; children 8 and under FREE; Free Friday noon-3 PM.
