Every week, Milwaukee With Kids answers a simple question for families across the area: What are we going to do this weekend? From indoor activities to outdoor adventures, we’ve got you covered. For the full weekend list, make sure to visit the Milwaukee With Kids website.
Top pick
China Lights Festival
Boerner Botanical Gardens | 9400 Boerner Dr. | Hales Corners
Sept. 12-Nov. 2 | 5-8:30 p.m.
It’s the opening weekend for the annual attraction featuring vibrant lanterns, intricate displays and beautiful gardens lit up at night to leave you in awe. Tickets are available online in three time slots (5:00, 6:30 or 8:00 pm). Buying tickets in advance is highly recommended, as walk-up tickets are limited and more expensive.
Free fun
Milwaukee Fire Department’s 150th Anniversary Celebration
Henry Maier Festival Park | 200 N. Harbor Dr. | Milwaukee
Saturday, Sept. 13 | Noon-4 p.m.
Head to Henry Maier Festival Park to celebrate 150 years of courage, integrity and honor, with live music from Milwaukee’s own Chasin’ Mason, food vendors and fun for the whole family. Admission and parking are free. Enter at the South Gate near the American Family Insurance Amphitheater.
Near West Fest at Movie Night in Davidson Park
3725 W. Juneau Ave. | Milwaukee
Friday, Sept. 12 | 4-8 p.m.
Davidson Park will be the stage for a day full of history, culture and community spirit. Enjoy food trucks and a happy hour at the 1903 Tavern, live music, free popcorn and face painting, chalk activities led by Artists Working in Education and an outdoor screening of The Sandlot to cap the night.
Cloud9 Workshop Anniversary Celebration
5205 W. North Ave. | Milwaukee
Saturday, Sept. 13 | 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
It’s the 13th Anniversary of Cloud9 Workshop, and they’re doing a big reveal of their refreshed studio and new programs! Pop by for prizes, tasty treats, a scavenger hunt, a muralist meet-and-greet, make-n-take crafts, back-to-school art supplies and more.
More great options
Rally Round for Children’s Wisconsin
State Fair Park | 640 S. 84th St. | West Allis
Saturday, Sept. 13 | 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
This one-of-a-kind event at the Milwaukee Mile will be the biggest pep rally you’ll ever attend, and all proceeds benefit Children’s Wisconsin. Continuing the 45-year legacy of Al’s Run & Walk while evolving it into a day for all ages and abilities, Rally Round will feature family-friendly entertainment, games, maker spaces, sports, food trucks, and the opportunity to run, walk or roll on the track in honor of loved ones. Kids get in FREE!
Bavarian Bierhaus Oktoberfest
700 W. Lexington Blvd. | Glendale
Sept. 5-Oct. 5 (Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays)
Held at the historic Heidelberg Park in Glendale, this celebration has been a local tradition for over 60 years. The Bavarian Bierhaus offers authentic German food like schnitzel and Bavarian pretzels, along with live music and a midway for kids. Admission is $5 on Fridays, $10 on Saturdays and FREE on Sundays, with gates opening at 4 p.m. on Fridays and 11 a.m. on weekends.