Seasonal & Holidays
6 Things To Do In Milwaukee This Spring: Markets, Festivals & Local Events
From a brand partner: Add these community happenings to your calendar in the weeks ahead.
Longer days and warmer weather mean it’s a great time to get outside and see what’s happening around Milwaukee. Throughout the season, local markets, festivals and community events offer plenty of opportunities to explore, connect and enjoy the best of spring.
Below are several happenings to check out this season. Before heading out, it’s always a good idea to confirm hours, weather plans and ticket details with event organizers.
1. West Allis Farmers Market
When: Tuesdays and Thursdays from 12-5 p.m., Saturdays from 1-5 p.m. (beginning May 2, 2026)
Where: 6501 W National Ave, West Allis, WI
Find out what's happening in Milwaukeefor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Voted Best Farmers Market by both Milwaukee Magazine and the Shepherd Express, the nearby West Allis Farmers Market returns to the city for its 107th season this May. The market boasts seasonal produce, flowers and plants, plus fresh meats and eggs, specialty foods and more. There are also local brews and food trucks on site, along with live music on Thursdays and Saturdays from June to October.
More info: westallisfarmersmarket.com
Find out what's happening in Milwaukeefor free with the latest updates from Patch.
2. Milwaukee Film Festival
When: April 16-30, 2026 (times vary)
Where: Downer Theatre - 2589 N Downer Ave, Milwaukee / Oriental Theatre - 2230 N Farwell Ave, Milwaukee
The Milwaukee Film Festival runs April 16-30 at the Downer and Oriental Theatres on Milwaukee’s East Side. The event showcases a wide range of films, including documentaries, shorts and international features, along with panels and discussions featuring filmmakers and industry guests.
More info: mkefilm.org/milwaukee-film-fest
3. Cooking Classes at Milwaukee Public Market
When: Dates and times vary; see website for available classes and schedule
Where: 400 N Water St, Milwaukee, WI
For a fun evening of food and learning, head over to the Milwaukee Public Market for a hands-on cooking class or demonstration. A sampling of upcoming classes include a Bob Ross-inspired paint and sip (April 26), a cookbook signing and demonstration with author Roxana Jullapat (April 30) and a Tequila 101 demo (May 20). Your admission includes the lesson, water and generous samples of the food; beer and wine are available for purchase.
More info: milwaukeepublicmarket.org/class/cooking-classes
4. Art in the Green
When: Saturday and Sunday, April 25-26, 2026, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
Where: Mitchell Park Domes, 524 S Layton Blvd, Milwaukee, WI
One of Milwaukee’s most popular art festivals is back for another year, bringing art, food and fun to the Mitchell Park Domes. With works for sale from over two dozen regional and local artists, along with food vendors and live music, there’s plenty to enjoy throughout the weekend. Admission to Art in the Green is free for Milwaukee Domes Alliance members.
More info: milwaukeedomes.org/events/art-in-the-green
5. Summer Movie Nights in Veteran’s Park
When: Select dates beginning June 13, 2026, starting at dusk
Where: Gift of Wings Kite Store in Veterans Park, 1300 N Lincoln Memorial Dr, Milwaukee, WI
Kick off the summer with a free outdoor movie on the lakefront at Veterans Park. The season opener is "Captain America: Brave New World," with "Zootopia 2," "Jurassic World" and "Super Mario Galaxy Movie" rounding out the list. Food and beverages will be available for purchase (movie popcorn is just a dollar!); guests are encouraged to bring blankets or lawn chairs. See the website for upcoming movie dates throughout the summer.
More info: giftofwingslanding.com/movies.html
6. Summerfest
When: Thursday-Saturday, June 18-20, June 25-27, July 2-4, 2026; 12 p.m.-12 a.m.
Where: Downtown Milwaukee, WI
Summerfest is the world’s largest music festival, boasting 600 artists over 9 days across multiple stages in downtown Milwaukee. This year’s lineup includes big names like Jelly Roll, Garth Brooks, Post Malone, Muse and The Pussycat Dolls. General admission tickets start at $30, with a separate ticket required for concerts in the American Family Insurance Amphitheater.
More info: summerfest.com
