You Won’t Believe What Happens at America’s Oldest Beer Festival—Find Out Before It Ends!

As Milwaukee gears up for a vibrant weekend, residents have a plethora of events to choose from, whether it’s to reward themselves for civic engagement or to get a head start on celebrating Milwaukee Day (April 14). From the iconic Bike Expo Sale to the lively Blessing of the Bock Festival at Falcon Bowl, there’s something for everyone.

April 10-12: Bike Expo Sale

The Bike Expo Sale, hosted by Wheel & Sprocket, returns to the Wisconsin State Fair Exposition Center, boasting over 2,000 new and used bikes. This is the nation’s largest bike sale, where enthusiasts can browse a wide selection of bicycles, including e-bikes, along with accessories and apparel. Representatives from well-known brands like Trek, Abus, and BP will be present, offering insights into the latest in biking technology. For those looking to upgrade, there's even an opportunity to trade in an old bike for credit towards a new one. More information can be found on the Bike Expo Sale website.

April 11-May 17: Disney’s ‘Frozen’

The magic of Disney comes alive as the Broadway production of Frozen takes the stage at First Stage. Audiences can look forward to beloved songs such as “Let It Go” and “Do You Want to Build a Snowman?” as the production tells the heartwarming tale of two sisters and their snowman companion. The show is anticipated to deliver “breathtaking design” and “unforgettable theater magic.” For showtimes and ticket purchases, visit the First Stage website.

April 11: Doggy Day at Deer District

For dog lovers, the fifth annual Doggy Day at Deer District is a must-attend event. From 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., furry friends are welcome to join their owners for a day filled with delicious food from food trucks and local vendors—over 80 in total. Live entertainment will be provided by DJ Gee-A, while dogs can participate in a Lure Course, and humans can partake in exciting prizes and giveaways. This event is free to attend, making it a perfect outing for families.

April 11-12: Spoof Fest

Music lovers can enjoy a unique experience at Spoof Fest, taking place at Club Garibaldi. This two-day event features cover bands playing tunes from iconic groups such as Danzig, Weezer, and The B-52s. Attendees are encouraged to don goofy costumes while enjoying live music and, of course, plenty of beer. Doors open at 7 p.m. each night, and tickets are priced at $20, available exclusively at the venue.

April 12: 38th Annual Blessing of the Bock Festival

Milwaukee’s very own Falcon Bowl is the venue for the 38th Annual Blessing of the Bock Festival, which humorously claims to be the “longest continuously running beer festival in the United States.” This unique celebration will host over 15 breweries, serving up unlimited beer samples alongside Usinger’s Sausage. The event features a Blessing of the Bock ceremony conducted by Jim Klisch of Lakefront Brewery. Tickets will be available on the day of the event at a cost of $30. This festival not only offers a taste of local culture but also serves as a fundraiser for the Riverwest Investment Co-Op.

April 12: Milwaukee Makers Market Celebrate MKE Day!

The Milwaukee Makers Market will host a special event at Discovery World to celebrate 414 Day, featuring over 50 small businesses. Attendees can shop for a variety of locally-made goods including baked treats, clothing, and art. For those feeling peckish, food trucks like Tots on the Street and Elevate Coffee will be onsite. This free event runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and emphasizes the spirit of local entrepreneurship.

This weekend promises a blend of culture, community, and creativity in Milwaukee. Whether you're a bike enthusiast, a theater buff, or someone who enjoys a good festival, these events are a chance to engage with the local community while having fun.