Oak Creek Public Library

Please join us for OCPL's annual Poetry Open Mic Night! Take the stage or simply come to enjoy our community's talented poets. Poems should be no longer than five (5) minutes in length. Winners of the <a href="https://oakcreeklibrary.org/ocpl-poetry-contest/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">Poetry Contest</a> from April 2026 will be awarded at the beginning of this event and then invited to share their winning entries. 
Guidelines <ul><li>Poetry may be in any poetic style and on any subject.</li><li>A poem in its entirety must be an original work by the person doing the reading.<ul><li>Plagiarism is a serious offense with serious consequences.</li><li>Poet may not use any AI software to create poem.</li></ul></li><li>Only one poem per person is allowed.</li><li>All poems must be read in English.</li><li>Poems containing language that is vulgar, offensive, or inappropriate will not be accepted.</li></ul>
This program will take place in the Multi-purpose Room and is open to all ages. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. If you would like to participate in the open mic, registration is recommended but not required.&nbsp; Register by visiting <a href="https://oakcreeklibrary.org/events/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">oakcreeklibrary.org/events</a> or over the phone by calling 414-766-7900.&nbsp;

Local Event: Poetry Open Mic Night at Oak Creek Public Library

Milwaukee County

Oak Creek

Wisconsin

Poetry Open Mic Night at Oak Creek Public Library

Please join us for OCPL's annual Poetry Open Mic Night! Take the stage or simply come to enjoy our community's talented poets....

Emerald Preserve Park

Join accomplished birders Austin Hribar and Beto Duron for a 45-minute beginner-friendly walk around <a href="https://www.oakcreekwi.gov/Home/Components/FacilityDirectory/FacilityDirectory/32/459" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">Emerald Preserve</a>. They will highlight birds, blooming wildflowers, plants of interest, and other local wildlife. The space is very accessible with well-maintained trails, making it ideal for all ages and abilities!
The group will meet at the beginning of the Emerald Preserve trail just off of S 6th Street, opposite the library. This program is open to all ages. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. Registration is required. When registering, please indicate if you need to borrow a pair of binoculars or if you plan to bring your own. Register by visiting <a href="https://oakcreeklibrary.org/events/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">oakcreeklibrary.org/events</a> or over the phone by calling 414-766-7900.

Local Event: Guided Nature Walk at Emerald Preserve

Guided Nature Walk at Emerald Preserve

Join accomplished birders Austin Hribar and Beto Duron for a 45-minute beginner-friendly walk around Emerald Preserve. They...

Join Dementia Care Specialist Candice LeGros as she focuses on the 10 risk factors you can monitor to keep your brain healthy as you age. She will discuss introductory information on dementia, risk factors for developing memory loss, normal vs not normal aging, warning signs of Alzheimer’s, ways to reduce your risk of developing memory issues, and the importance of early detection. The first step to reducing your risk of developing memory issues is becoming educated on the topic and making lifestyle changes to incorporate heathier habits! 


This program will take place in the Multi-purpose Room and is geared toward adults. Registration is not required. Made possible in part by the <a href="https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/adrc/index.htm" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Milwaukee County Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC)</a>. Find out more by visiting <a href="https://oakcreeklibrary.org/events/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">oakcreeklibrary.org/events</a> or over the phone by calling 414-766-7900.

Local Event: Better Brain Health at Oak Creek Public Library

Better Brain Health at Oak Creek Public Library

Join Dementia Care Specialist Candice LeGros as she focuses on the 10 risk factors you can monitor to keep your brain healthy...

Did you know that our Library of things has <a target="_blank" href="https://oakcreeklibrary.org/library-of-things/#digitization" rel="nofollow noopener">digitization equipment</a>? This class will show you how to convert your analog materials (VHS, cassette, and film negatives) into digital format. In addition, there will be instruction on how to use the Blue Yeti recording microphone and <a target="_blank" href="https://www.audacityteam.org/" rel="nofollow noopener">Audacity</a>&nbsp;as well as discussion about the different drives and hubs the library has available for checkout.
 This is a single-session class that will take place in the Technology Training Lab and requires registration. Register by visiting oakcreeklibrary.org/events or over the phone by calling 414-766-7900.

Local Event: Convert Your Memories – Analog to Digital at Oak Creek Public Library

Convert Your Memories – Analog to Digital at...

Did you know that our Library of things has digitization equipment? This class will show you how to convert your analog...

Convert Your Memories – Analog to Digital at Oak Creek Public Library

Unearth a Story! Join Oak Creek Public Library in reading over the summer. This all-ages Summer Reading Challenge runs Saturday, June 13 – Saturday, August 15. Upon registration, participants will have their name added to the window mural overlooking Drexel Town Square. After reading for 15 days, participants will receive a prize. Prizes will be available Saturday, June 27 – Saturday, August 15, or while supplies last. Register online starting June 13 by visiting <a href="https://oakcreeklibrary.org/src" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">https://oakcreeklibrary.org/src</a>. Participants will receive electronic badges as they reach reading and activity milestones. Even after the main challenge is completed, participants will still be able to continue logging their reading, writing book reviews, and doing activities throughout the summer.
Celebrate the start of the Challenge by attending the Summer Reading Kick-Off at the <a href="https://www.oakcreekwi.gov/visitor/events/farmers-market" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Drexel Town Square Farmers Market</a> on Saturday, June 13. Attendees of all ages will be able to learn more about the Challenge and can grab some swag (while supplies last) at the library’s booth from 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Story Time based on this year's theme, "Unearth a Story," will take place at 9:30 a.m. and again at 10:30 a.m. This story time is geared toward children ages 4-8, with an adult, though all ages are welcome. Registration is not required, and attendees should feel free to bring a blanket to sit on.
New this year are two very unique programs. Librarians and early childhood professionals can register to attend Music Play is Learning Play with Jim Gill: A Professional Development Workshop for Early Childhood Educators &amp; Librarians held Friday, August 14 from 1:00-4:00 p.m. in the Multi-purpose Room. Award-winning musician and author Jim Gill celebrates the joy of music and challenges educators to think of music beyond the video screen to take every advantage of musical opportunities to help young children learn. This session will include strategies to promote family and caregiver engagement in programming as well as a discussion connecting the practical activities with the 5 practices of the <a href="https://everychildreadytoread.org/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">ALA's Every Child Ready to Read</a> program. Attendees will leave this session inspired to celebrate in the classroom with new songs and playful literacy activities. Registration will be available on the <a href="https://oakcreeklibrary.org/events/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">library’s events calendar</a>&nbsp;starting May 4th.&nbsp;Sponsored by Visit Oak Creek.
Later the same day, everyone is invited to take part in <a href="https://www.oakcreekwi.gov/visitor/events/kids-nights" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Kids Night at Drexel Town Square</a> for the Summer Reading Finale featuring A Sing-Along &amp; Play-Along Concert with Jim Gill. Get ready to sing, clap, and dance along! Jim Gill’s music invites children, parents, and grandparents to sing, dance, and play together. This concert is geared toward all ages, but please note that children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. Registration is not required.&nbsp;Sponsored by Visit Oak Creek.
The Summer Reading Challenge, Kick-Off event, and Story Time are sponsored by the <a href="https://oakcreeklibrary.org/friends/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Friends of the Oak Creek Public Library</a>. Please note that all programs may be modified, canceled, or postponed due to inclement weather. In the event of changes, updates will be available on the library's Facebook page at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/oakcreeklibrary" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">www.facebook.com/oakcreeklibrary</a>. For more information about the Summer Reading Challenge and related programs, please visit <a href="https://www.oakcreeklibrary.org/events" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">www.oakcreeklibrary.org/events</a> or call (414) 766-7900.

Local Event: 2026 Summer Reading Challenge, Kick-Off Event, Performances & Workshop at Oak Creek Public Library

2026 Summer Reading Challenge, Kick-Off Event,...

Unearth a Story! Join Oak Creek Public Library in reading over the summer. This all-ages Summer Reading Challenge runs...

2026 Summer Reading Challenge, Kick-Off Event, Performances & Workshop at Oak Creek Public Library

Join us as we kick-off our summer STEAM Labs with a fun dinosaur dig. We will talk about dinosaurs, fossils, and paleontology before "digging up" our own fossils! 
This program is for those in grades 1-2 and will take place in the Story Time Room. Registration is required. Find out more by visiting <a href="https://oakcreeklibrary.org/events/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">oakcreeklibrary.org/events</a> or over the phone by calling 414-766-7900.

Local Event: STEAM Lab: Dino Dig!

STEAM Lab: Dino Dig!

Join us as we kick-off our summer STEAM Labs with a fun dinosaur dig. We will talk about dinosaurs, fossils, and paleontology...

Join us as we kick-off our summer STEAM Labs with a fun dinosaur dig. We will talk about dinosaurs, fossils, and paleontology before "digging up" our own fossils! 
This program is for those in grades 3-6 and will take place in the Story Time Room. Registration is required. Find out more by visiting <a href="https://oakcreeklibrary.org/events/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">oakcreeklibrary.org/events</a> or over the phone by calling 414-766-7900.

Local Event: STEAM Lab: Dino Dig! 2.0

STEAM Lab: Dino Dig! 2.0

Dinosaur Ranger Academy with <a href="https://www.dinosaurswildchicago.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">Dinosaurs Wild</a> features educational content, puppetry, and audience interaction with realistic baby dinosaur puppets. The live show will be followed by a dino meet and greet!
This program is geared toward children ages 4-11, with an adult, and will take place in the Multi-purpose Room. Registration is not required. Find out more by visiting oakcreeklibrary.org/events or over the phone by calling 414-766-7900.

Local Event: Dinosaur Ranger Academy with Dinosaurs Wild at Oak Creek Public Library

Dinosaur Ranger Academy with Dinosaurs Wild at...

Dinosaur Ranger Academy with Dinosaurs Wild features educational content, puppetry, and audience interaction with realistic...

Dinosaur Ranger Academy with Dinosaurs Wild at Oak Creek Public Library

Tuesdays, June 16 - July 21 from 9:30-9:50 a.m. and 10:30-10:50 a.m.
This 15-20 minute Story Time is geared toward children ages birth to 24 months, with an adult (siblings welcome). Come enjoy short stories, songs, and lapsit rhymes that foster early literacy. Play time with toys to follow.Registration is not required. Each session will take place in the Story Time Room. Please only attend one time slot per day. Find out more by visiting <a href="https://oakcreeklibrary.org/events/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">oakcreeklibrary.org/events</a> or over the phone by calling 414-766-7900.

Local Event: Baby Story Time at Oak Creek Public Library

Baby Story Time at Oak Creek Public Library

Tuesdays, June 16 - July 21 from 9:30-9:50 a.m. and 10:30-10:50 a.m.
This 15-20 minute Story Time is geared toward children...

Are you interested in volunteering at the library? Come and learn about the teen volunteer program and opportunities available this summer. This orientation is required for new volunteers. New volunteers must submit the volunteer application before the event. The online application form is&nbsp;available at <a href="https://oakcreeklibrary.org/teen-volunteers" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">https://oakcreeklibrary.org/teen-volunteers</a>.

This program is for those entering grades 7-12 in Fall 2026 and will take place in the Multi-purpose Room. Registration is required. Register by visiting oakcreeklibrary.org/events or over the phone by calling 414-766-7900.

Local Event: Teen Volunteer Orientation at Oak Creek Public Library

Teen Volunteer Orientation at Oak Creek Public...

Are you interested in volunteering at the library? Come and learn about the teen volunteer program and opportunities available...

Teen Volunteer Orientation at Oak Creek Public Library

Use stone pebbles to create a fun, circular mosaic you can put in your garden or hang on your wall. 
This program is for those in grades 6-9 and will take place in the Story Time Room. Registration is required. Find out more by visiting <a href="https://oakcreeklibrary.org/events/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">oakcreeklibrary.org/events</a> or over the phone by calling 414-766-7900.

Local Event: Middle School: Dinosaur Trinket Dish

Middle School: Dinosaur Trinket Dish

Use stone pebbles to create a fun, circular mosaic you can put in your garden or hang on your wall. 
This program is for those...

This 30-minute Story Time welcomes children of all ages with their caregivers and seniors from the community. It will feature stories and songs followed by a playtime and social for attendees. 
Where to meet us: 
June 19: The Oak Creek Public Library Multi-purpose Room, 8040 S 6th St

Registration is not required. Find out more by visiting <a href="https://oakcreeklibrary.org/events/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">oakcreeklibrary.org/events</a> or over the phone by calling 414-766-7900.

Local Event: Intergenerational Story Time at Oak Creek Public Library

Intergenerational Story Time at Oak Creek...

This 30-minute Story Time welcomes children of all ages with their caregivers and seniors from the community. It will feature...

Intergenerational Story Time at Oak Creek Public Library

Come join us as we create dinosaur skeletons using pasta for our Pasta Paleontology STEAM Lab. 
This program is for those in grades 1-2 and will take place in the Story Time Room. Registration is required. Find out more by visiting <a href="https://oakcreeklibrary.org/events/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">oakcreeklibrary.org/events</a> or over the phone by calling 414-766-7900.

Local Event: STEAM Lab: Pasta Paleontology

STEAM Lab: Pasta Paleontology

Come join us as we create dinosaur skeletons using pasta for our Pasta Paleontology STEAM Lab. 
This program is for those in...

Work together in groups to make a recycled dinosaur. We will display your masterpiece in the library after the program ends. 
This program is for those in grades 3-6 and will take place in the Story Time Room. Registration is required. Find out more by visiting <a href="https://oakcreeklibrary.org/events/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">oakcreeklibrary.org/events</a> or over the phone by calling 414-766-7900.

Local Event: STEAM Lab: Recyclosaurus

STEAM Lab: Recyclosaurus

Work together in groups to make a recycled dinosaur. We will display your masterpiece in the library after the program ends....

Local Event: Middle School: Stone Mosaics

Middle School: Stone Mosaics

This 20-25 minute Story Time is geared toward children ages 3-7, with an adult (siblings welcome). Get ready to nurture early literacy with stories, songs, and rhymes and get excited to meet a special guest! Come say "hello" to our City Clerk to learn all about voting and elections. &nbsp; 

Registration is not required. This program will be held in the Multi-purpose Room. Find out more by visiting <a href="https://oakcreeklibrary.org/events/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">oakcreeklibrary.org/events</a> or over the phone by calling 414-766-7900.

Local Event: City Workers Story Time: City Clerk

City Workers Story Time: City Clerk

This 20-25 minute Story Time is geared toward children ages 3-7, with an adult (siblings welcome). Get ready to nurture early...

Let's celebrate America's 250th anniversary by giving back to the community. We'll have various craft projects available for kids to make that we will gift to senior citizens and veterans in the community. Please wear something that can get messy! 
All ages and genders are welcome, though this program is designed for ages 4-11 with an adult and will take place in the Multi-purpose Room.&nbsp;Registration not required. Find out more by visiting <a href="https://oakcreeklibrary.org/events/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">oakcreeklibrary.org/events</a> or over the phone by calling 414-766-7900.

Local Event: Family Fun: STEAM Makerspace with WIT4Girls

Family Fun: STEAM Makerspace with WIT4Girls

Let's celebrate America's 250th anniversary by giving back to the community. We'll have various craft projects available for...

It's rumored that dinosaurs evolved into modern-day birds. But which dinos ruled the prehistoric skies? Come find out at our STEAM Lab! 
This program is for those in grades 1-2 and will take place in the Story Time Room. Registration is required. Find out more by visiting <a href="https://oakcreeklibrary.org/events/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">oakcreeklibrary.org/events</a> or over the phone by calling 414-766-7900.

Local Event: STEAM Lab: Flying Dinosaurs

STEAM Lab: Flying Dinosaurs

It's rumored that dinosaurs evolved into modern-day birds. But which dinos ruled the prehistoric skies? Come find out at our...

What giant sea creatures swam in the ocean's depths? Explore with us in this fun and adventurous lab! 
This program is for those in grades 3-6 and will take place in the Story Time Room. Registration is required. Find out more by visiting <a href="https://oakcreeklibrary.org/events/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">oakcreeklibrary.org/events</a> or over the phone by calling 414-766-7900.

Local Event: STEAM Lab: Ancient Sea Monsters

STEAM Lab: Ancient Sea Monsters

What giant sea creatures swam in the ocean's depths? Explore with us in this fun and adventurous lab! 
This program is for...

Create a miniature version of a message in a bottle to keep on your desk. 

This program is for those in grades 6-9 and will take place in the Story Time Room. Registration is required. Find out more by visiting <a href="https://oakcreeklibrary.org/events/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">oakcreeklibrary.org/events</a> or over the phone by calling 414-766-7900.

Local Event: Middle School: Desktop Message in a Bottle

Middle School: Desktop Message in a Bottle

Create a miniature version of a message in a bottle to keep on your desk. 

This program is for those in grades 6-9 and will...

Melvil Dewey

Milwaukee Metropolitan Area

Racine County

Caledonia

Greendale

Franklin

Greenfield

Milwaukee

Waukesha County

Muskego

Mount Pleasant-Sturtevant

New Berlin

Wauwatosa

Shorewood

Veterans Park

The IKEA Family Kite Festival Soars Back for Its 39th Year at Veterans Park...May 23 &amp; May 24.
Milwaukee, WI — Gift of Wings is thrilled to announce that the IKEA Family Kite Festival is returning to Milwaukee’s lakefront for the 39th consecutive year. Spring is finally here — it’s time to GO FLY A KITE!
On Saturday, May 23, and Sunday, May 24, 2026, join us at beautiful Veterans Park (1010 N. Lincoln Memorial Drive) for two days of spectacular kite flying, family fun, and breathtaking aerial displays. The festival runs from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Saturday and 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Sunday.
The highlight of each day is the Grand Launch at noon, when more than 600 kites will fill the sky in a colorful spectacle you won’t want to miss. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xrNgcpp5Mn8" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xrNgcpp5Mn8</a>
World-Class Kite Performances
This year’s event features an impressive lineup of talented flyers:
<ul>
 <li>The Fabulous Windjammers, the world-renowned precision kite-flying team from Detroit, will perform three times daily — marking their 15th appearance in Milwaukee. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=29dFQNve7Dw&amp;t=32s" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=29dFQNve7Dw&amp;t=32s</a></li>
 <li>The Chicago Fire Kite Team returns for the 25th straight year, with all six members performing their signature synchronized routines. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d5J5X2dKmr0" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d5J5X2dKmr0</a></li>
 <li>The Fabulous Wind Wolves will wow the crowd with their two massive Super Giant Whale kites, their brand-new 120-foot Trilobite kite, and the all-new IKEA Shark kite — an exclusive debut for the Family Kite Festival. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XCPTMP30BPM" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XCPTMP30BPM</a></li>
 <li>Local favorites include Milwaukee’s own Mike Delfar, Paul Koepke, and Wow Pro-Style.</li>
 <li>Jean Lemire from Montreal will attempt the challenging feat of flying three dual-line stunt kites simultaneously.</li>
 <li>James Almas from Vancouver, the only person in the world known to fly four stunt kites at once, will showcase his incredible skill.</li>
</ul>
Free kite-flying lessons will be available throughout the weekend from the Kite Whisperers, including Jim Cosca.
Fun for the Kids
Kids won’t want to miss the Kids Mad Dash! The first 100 children to sign up and participate will receive a free kite, followed by the exciting sight of 100 kites launching into the sky at once.
Gift of Wings will have a wide selection of kites for sale, along with food and refreshments on site.
Event Details
The IKEA Family Kite Festival — Celebrating America and presented by IKEA — is completely FREE to attend, with plenty of free parking available.
The event is hosted by Gift of Wings in partnership with the Kite Society of Wisconsin and Illinois.
For more information, visit:
<ul>
 <li><a href="https://www.giftofwings.com" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">www.giftofwings.com</a></li>
 <li><a href="https://www.facebook.com/GiftofWings" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">www.facebook.com/GiftofWings</a></li>
</ul>
Media inquiries, including interviews and additional details: Scott Fisher Gift of Wings 414-305-3145
IKEA locations serving the area: Oak Creek, WI • Bolingbrook, IL • Schaumburg, IL &amp; coming soon Gurnee, IL

Local Event: IKEA Family Kite Festival....Celebrating America

IKEA Family Kite Festival....Celebrating America

The IKEA Family Kite Festival Soars Back for Its 39th Year at Veterans Park...May 23 & May 24.
Milwaukee, WI — Gift of Wings is...

Nearby Communities

State Edition

National Edition

Posting Activity

Poetry Open Mic Night at Oak Creek Public Library

MAY

29

5:30 PM

Oak Creek Public Library, 8040 S 6th St, Oak Creek, WI

Guided Nature Walk at Emerald Preserve

MAY

30

9:15 AM

Emerald Preserve Park, S 6th St, Oak Creek, WI

Better Brain Health at Oak Creek Public Library

JUN

9

10:00 AM

Oak Creek Public Library, 8040 S 6th St, Oak Creek, WI

Convert Your Memories – Analog to Digital at Oak Creek Public Library

JUN

11

6:00 PM

Oak Creek Public Library, 8040 S 6th St, Oak Creek, WI

2026 Summer Reading Challenge, Kick-Off Event, Performances & Workshop at Oak Creek Public Library

JUN

13

9:00 AM

Oak Creek Public Library, 8040 S 6th St, Oak Creek, WI

STEAM Lab: Dino Dig!

JUN

15

1:30 PM

Oak Creek Public Library, 8040 S 6th St, Oak Creek, WI

STEAM Lab: Dino Dig! 2.0

JUN

15

3:00 PM

Oak Creek Public Library, 8040 S 6th St, Oak Creek, WI

Dinosaur Ranger Academy with Dinosaurs Wild at Oak Creek Public Library

JUN

16

1:30 AM

Oak Creek Public Library, 8040 S 6th St, Oak Creek, WI

Baby Story Time at Oak Creek Public Library

JUN

16

9:30 AM

Oak Creek Public Library, 8040 S 6th St, Oak Creek, WI

Teen Volunteer Orientation at Oak Creek Public Library

JUN

16

6:30 PM

Oak Creek Public Library, 8040 S 6th St, Oak Creek, WI

Middle School: Dinosaur Trinket Dish

JUN

17

3:00 PM

Oak Creek Public Library, 8040 S 6th St, Oak Creek, WI

Intergenerational Story Time at Oak Creek Public Library

JUN

19

10:30 AM

Oak Creek Public Library, 8040 S 6th St, Oak Creek, WI

STEAM Lab: Pasta Paleontology

JUN

22

1:30 PM

Oak Creek Public Library, 8040 S 6th St, Oak Creek, WI

STEAM Lab: Recyclosaurus

JUN

22

3:00 PM

Oak Creek Public Library, 8040 S 6th St, Oak Creek, WI

Middle School: Stone Mosaics

JUN

24

3:00 PM

Oak Creek Public Library, 8040 S 6th St, Oak Creek, WI

City Workers Story Time: City Clerk