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
Trainfest
Baird Center
Nov. 1-2 | 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday
The Midwest’s largest model train show has something for everyone, from seasoned model railroading enthusiasts to families looking for good old-fashioned fun. There will be FREE train rides for children, plus 50+ operating model railroad displays where kids can watch trains navigate realistic landscapes, tunnels and towns. Kids 12 and under get in free with a paid adult.
Halloween fun
Milwaukee Trick-Or-Treat
Oct. 31 | 5:30-7:30 p.m.
It’s time for the SWEETEST tradition of the year: trick-or-treating! Grab your costumes and bucket, and have a fun and safe time. Remember to turn your porch lights on if you’re handing out treats.
Hocus Pocus: Film With Orchestra
Allen-Bradley Hall
Oct. 31-Nov. 1 | 7:30 p.m.
This Halloween, the Sanderson Sisters are back. Accidentally brought to life in Salem on Halloween night, three witches attempt to steal the life essence from the town’s children so they can have eternal life. Dust off your broom — or vacuum! — and zoom down to Allen-Bradley Hall for a night of toil and trouble with the Sanderson Sisters and your Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra as John Debney’s bewitching score is performed live along with the film.
Make a day of it
Día de los Muertos Celebration
Mitchell Park Domes
Oct. 31 | 6-9 p.m.
Don’t miss the opportunity to take part in the Milwaukee Domes Alliance’s annual fiesta, a family-friendly evening that invites guests of all ages to explore the beauty of this beloved tradition that honors loved ones who have passed. Celebrate life through beautifully decorated ofrendas, live music from Trio Voces de America mariachi band, art and food vendors, hands-on activities, lights shows, cultural dancers and more.
33rd Annual Dia de Los Muertos Exhibition
Walker’s Point Center for the Arts
Nov. 1 | 1-5 p.m.
As the city’s longest-standing tradition of commemorating Día de los Muertos, this year’s event will be presented under the theme of “Memoria y Valentía / Memory and Bravery.” Gather together to reflect on the lives of the dearly departed, their enduring impact and the memories they leave behind. Vibrant contemporary works by local artists and heartfelt altares created by community members and partners will uplift the spirit of remembrance and resilience during this afternoon of culture, dance, pan de muerto and champurrado.
Día de Muertos Celebration
Zócalo Food Park
Nov. 2 | Noon-7 p.m.
Day of the Dead isn’t about mourning; it’s about remembering, cherishing memories and seeing death as a natural part of life’s cycle. This Sunday, Zócalo Food Park will transform into a vibrant space honoring the ancestors and celebrating community through art, music and tradition.
More ideas
Family Free Day
Milwaukee County Zoo
Nov. 1 | 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
Mark your calendar for the first Saturday in November for a special visit to the zoo. All guests receive free admission (parking and regular attraction fees still apply) to take in the sights around the zoo, including the North American river otters and Penguins of the Pacific.
Free Day & Powwow
Milwaukee Public Museum
Nov. 1 | 10:30 a.m.-7 p.m.
For the first time, MPM is hosting a powwow to kick off special programming throughout November in celebration of Native American Heritage Month. This free event will showcase powwow drum and dance rhythms, as well as Indigenous foods visitors can enjoy and Native artisans who will have items for purchase. Doors open at 10:30 a.m., and the powwow begins at noon.
Harry Potter 8-Movie Marathon
Marcus Movie Theaters (multiple locations)
Nov. 1-2
The Harry Potter Movie Marathon is a spellbinding cinematic journey. Two days. All eight movies. One epic journey. Guests will relive the entire saga — from The Sorcerer’s Stone to The Deathly Hallows — on the big screen! And as an extra bit of magic, Magical Movie Rewards members receive 20% off concessions during the marathon.