Do you remember Hoanchella? It was the inaugural event held last August by Light the Hoan to raise money for the organization’s quest to illuminate the east side of that big, beautiful bridge right next to the lake. People seemed to dig the experience, which is why it’s coming back with a few enhancements for 2024.
Let’s start with the most noticeable change: the name. You can now call this annual shindig Hoancoming, and it’ll be held Aug. 17 from 2 p.m. to deep into the night. Along with the new label comes even more fun on the water and terra firma, as organizers have decided to expand things the second time around.
“People loved the event last year, and we are going to double down this year with more music and more events to showcase the amazing boating culture here,” Light the Hoan co-founder Ian Abston said in a release. “This is the most unique festival our city has to offer and the only one that takes full advantage of our incredible riverway.”
There are many activities planned for the day/night, including a drone show and fireworks/lights display, as well as a custom-designed light show courtesy of the fourth annual Intern Challenge presented by Northwestern Mutual.
All of those will be visible for free from the water (if you’re the captain of your own boat) and dry land. But if you want to up your experience while financially supporting Light the Hoan, we humbly suggest joining DJ Shawna’s Good Vibes Cruise featuring (drumroll please) Radio Milwaukee!
The Milwaukee Bucks’ official DJ and generally wonderful emcee will run the show on the Miss Wisconsin from Edelweiss Cruise Lines as it takes a two-hour spin that includes a dance party (of course), complimentary drink and ideal viewing angle for the night’s light show. Tickets for that one are on sale now for $99. If you’re not lucky enough to land a spot on DJ Shawna’s sloop, there’s plenty more to do at this year’s Hoancoming:
- Retro ’80s Cruise — Throw it back with an 80s-themed party that also includes one free drink, an up-close view of the light shows and a scenic cruise on the Vista King from MKE Boat Line. Limited tickets are available for $99.
- Kayak Crawl with FunkClub — You thought Hoancoming was just for the big boats? Kayakers are welcome to join this parade led by local band FunkClub Wagon. Kayaks are available to rent, or festival-goers can bring their own.
- Milwaukee Scavenger Pontoon Cruise — Milwaukee Scavenger author Jenna Kashou will take guests on an hour-long tour down the Milwaukee River to learn more about the city’s hidden gems, landmarks and hotspots. Tickets are $25 per person.
- MKE with Kids Stage — Head to Pere Marquette Park for family-friendly activities, including a Kid Boogie Down dance party, a coloring contest, and treats from Pete’s Pops and Sugar Spun Gourmet Cotton Candy. This event is on land only and free to families
- White Claw’s After Party — Boone & Crockett will be the scene for this party that will keep Hoancoming going after the fireworks display concludes.
You can find the general schedules for Hoancoming below and get even more information on things like tickets, private parties and sponsorships on the event website.
Hoancoming on Land
- 2-8 p.m. — Riverwalk activities, live music and boating
- 2-4 p.m. — Kid Boogie Down at Pere Marquette Park sponsored by MKE With Kids
- 8 p.m.-??? — White Claw’s After Party at Boone & Crockett
Hoancoming on Water
- 3 p.m. — Kayak and Duffy boat cruise
- 6 p.m. — Boat parade
- 8:30 p.m. — Fireworks, drone show and DJ Shawna light show
- 8:45 p.m. — White Claw’s After Party at Boone & Crockett
