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We are officially back in full swing when it comes to events in Milwaukee! This weekend has everything, from music to sports to theater, dining, and even a Real Housewife or two. There's no reason not to enjoy an absolutely loaded Milwaukee weekend! Here's your Weekend Preview, brought to you by Potawatomi Casino Hotel!
FRIDAY
Milwaukee Bucks vs. Toronto Raptors
The Bucks are back in town this weekend! The stars of your Milwaukee Bucks welcome the Toronto Raptors to Fiserv Forum on Friday night for an Eastern Conference showdown.
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Animal Encounters at Discovery World
Turtles and snakes are some of the most fascinating creatures on the planet. Join the Discovery World team for an adventure in their Great Lakes Future exhibit as you meet the animal ambassadors that call Discovery World home.
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Winter Third Ward Gallery Night
Experience the vast creative culture in MKE while you discover local galleries, art, and artists. This free, two-day quarterly event offers you the opportunity to buy original art, dine in outstanding restaurants, and shop in unique boutiques.
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Partner Pick
DeRay Davis at Pabst Theater
Born and raised in Chicago Illinois, comedian DeRay Davis has transformed his rough upbringing, street-mentality and status as a working actor into a live tour that stays fresh and ever changing. Catch him on the "Apologies In Advance" tour Friday night.
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Junior Artist-In-Residence DeMar Walker at Arts @ Large
Kick off DeMar Walker's residency as a junior artist-in-residence at Arts @ Large with the opening of his multimedia exhibition, featuring the Milwaukee premiere of "The Refrain", the second installment in his dance short film series.
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Dinner with Spirits- J Henry Bourbon at Iron Horse Hotel
Ash Hearth and Bar invite you to an intimate evening of exceptional food and fine bourbon. Enjoy a five-course family-style dinner expertly paired with select J. Henry spirits.
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Lutalo, Runo Plum, Nalani, Blacktop at Cactus Club
Lutalo grew up in Minnesota where life constantly took them back and forth across the Mississippi River, from their Minneapolis home to school in St. Paul, before they settled for a while in New York City. Introduced to playing music through the African drumming classes their parents took them to as a child, Lutalo was educated on the Black experience in America by their father’s love for hip-hop, jazz, and Bossanova
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Goblin King Masquerade Ball
Step into a world of fantasy and enchantment as Turner Hall Ballroomo nce again transforms into a magical haven for the annual Goblin King Masquerade Ball. Revel in a waltz dance class, indulge in signature cocktails, enjoy captivating performances, explore a carefully curated vendors alley, and capture memories at exclusive photo ops.
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An Ice Cold Winter Disco at The Cooperage
Come celebrate the birthdays of Milwaukee legends John and Angie Swan at The Cooperage Friday, January 17th and be sure to bring your Disco hats because we’re heating it up. The night features a DJ battle, West Division live in concert and much more!
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Pass The Vibez at Canni MKE
Get ready to experience the ultimate music fusion at Canni with the monthly Hip-Hop, R&B & House Party! Offering an electrifying mix of fresh hip-hop, afrobeat, smooth R&B grooves, and high-energy house music. Whether you’re a fan of old-school classics or the latest chart-toppers, this party promises to deliver something for everyone.
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The Moth at Anodyne Coffee Roasters
Prepare a five-minute story about a fresh start. Clean slates and wet paint. When the tide came in and the sandcastle returned to sand. Expunging your past reputation and going back to square one. Cutting bangs after the big breakup. Whether you changed your zip code, career, or outlook on life, tell us about a time you felt new. Tomorrow is another day.
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Taj Farrant at Vivarium
He just opened for Buddy Guy's farewell tour - now see him live at Vivarium! Taj Farrant's exceptional guitar skills have garnered attention from music enthusiasts and professionals alike.
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Music Bingo at MOTOR Bar & Grill
If you can't get no satisfaction from your regular granny's bingo, then this is the bar game just for you! TuneMaster's live music bingo is coming to Motor Bar and Restaurant at Milwaukee's Harley-Davidson campus every Friday night!
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Friday Brewery Tours at Pilot Project Brewing
Head to Pilot Project Brewing for their weekly brewery tour! Your ticket includes five 5 ounce tasters of beer and/or booch, a taster glass to take home with you, the inside scoop on the origin story of Pilot Project Brewing, and a tour of their brand new facility. Friday tours are available at 6:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
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SATURDAY
Nick Swardson at Pabst Theater
Join comedian Nick Swardson, America's Sweetheart, at Pabst Theater as he tackles the hard issues of diarrhea, edibles and Norm MacDonald on his "Toilet Head" tour.
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Marquette Men's Basketball vs. Xavier
The Marquette Golden Eagles are currently ranked #7 in the country, and it's another Big East matchup on Saturday afternoon, as they take on Xavier at Fiserv Forum. We are Marquette!
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Milwaukee Wave vs. Tacoma Stars at UW-Milwaukee Panther Arena
The Milwaukee Wave are back home on Saturday for an exciting evening of soccer, celebration, and surprises. The Wave take on the Tacoma Stars, and it's Greek Night at UW-Milwaukee Panther Arena!
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Rio Da Yung OG at The Rave
Rapper Rio Da Yung OG comes to The Rave on Saturday night, headlining a bill that features a host of Milwaukee rappers as well.
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Partner Pick
Ben Schwartz & Friends at The Riverside Theater
Ben Schwartz has leading roles in Lord & Miller’s AppleTV+ miniseries "The Afterparty" as well as the second season of Greg Daniels and Steve Carell’s Netflix series "Space Force", in which he stars opposite stars Carell and John Malkovich. Ben is also the voice of Sonic The Hedgehog in both the original and sequel films for Paramount, or you may know him as John Ralphio from "Parks and Recreation." Catch him at The Riverside Theater!
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DJ Bizzon at Potawatomi Casino Hotel
DJ Bizzon has performed all over Milwaukee, and he'll bring his skills on the turntables to Potawatomi Casino Hotel on Saturday, with a free set on the second level!
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Tophy at The Wicked Hop
Every Saturday night, Milwaukee's own Tophy curates the sounds at The Wicked Hop in the Third Ward. Join at the Jackalope Lounj for a free night of dancing to all of your favorites including throwback pop, hip hop and much more.
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Partner Pick
Larry David Gruber, Mizzy, Whippets at Linneman's
Alternative rockers Larry David Gruber are a new act on the Milwaukee scene, and they'll be joined by Mizzy and Whippets for a night of rock and roll at Linneman's in Riverwest.
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Winter Market at Pomona Cider Co.
Join a handful of Milwaukee makers at Pomona Cider Co. on Saturday as you shop their Winter Market!
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UW-Milwaukee Women's Basketball vs. Detroit Mercy
With a full slate of action on tap at the Klotsche Center, now's the time to grab your tickets for an upcoming Milwaukee Panthers women's basketball home game. Head to the K as the Panthers take on Detroit Mercy!
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Tequila 101 at La Pina
Head to La Pina for Tequila 101 featuring El Tesoro, an exclusive tasting event exploring the artistry of tequila. Dive into the distinct characteristics of Blanco, Reposado, Añejo, and Extra Añejo tequilas.
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SUNDAY
Rebirth Brass Band at The Cooperage
For almost 4 decades, the Grammy winning Rebirth Brass Band has been “stunning” fans with a fiery live show and a rich musical catalog. Their trademark sound pays homage to the New Orleans brass band tradition while weaving a tapestry that combines elements of jazz, funk, soul, R&B and the sounds from the streets they grew up on.
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Milwaukee Bucks vs. Philadelphia 76ers
Experience the excitement of live NBA action and cheer on our team as they strive for victory. Enjoy a thrilling atmosphere filled with incredible plays, fan engagement, and entertainment. Don’t miss out on the chance to witness our Bucks in action—secure your tickets today and be part of the game!
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Sunday Yoga at Villa Terrace Arts Museum
New Year, new yoga classes! Villa Terrace will be keeping Sunday morning yoga going, with classes from 8:30 - 9:30 a.m. this weekend. Feel refreshed as you stretch your way into the new week.
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Partner Pick
Bubbles & Brunch at Saint Kate - The Arts Hotel
Start the weekend off right with Bubbles & Brunch at Saint Kate! Experience a local brunch that is anything but basic in their second floor restaurant, ARIA. Choose from an assortment of brunch favorites and enjoy specially crafted brunch libations, including Mimosas and Mimosa flights!
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Dish N Divas Drag Show with Teresa Giudice of Real Housewives of New Jersey at Turner Hall Ballroom
Join Real Housewives of New Jersey star Teresa Giudice for an unforgettable night of table-tipping fun, with some of your favorite local drag divas!
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UW-Milwaukee Men's Basketball vs. Robert Morris
he Milwaukee Panthers men's basketball team takes on Robert Morris. Tip-off is slated for 2 p.m. on Sunday at UWM Panther Arena. Help 'Tilt the Floor' and lock in your seat now.
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English Sunday Roast with Chef Kait at Lupi & Iris
Lupi & Iris is excited to present a traditional British Sunday Roast with Chef Kait. Kait has enjoyed many Sunday Roasts while spending time with family in England. Join us for a celebration of this traditional three-course dinner filled with delicious comfort foods.
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The Pist, Lash Out, Jagged at X-Ray Arcade
90's hardcore punk band The Pist are back, stronger than ever, and they'll be headlining a night of punk rock at X-Ray Arcade. They'll be joined by a pair of newer Milwaukee acts as well.
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ALL WEEKEND LONG
Chicago The Musical at Marcus Performing Arts Center
Chicago is still the one musical with everything that makes Broadway shimmy-shake: a universal tale of fame, fortune, and all that jazz, with one showstopping song after another and the most astonishing dancing you’ve ever seen.
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Juliet & Romeo at Skylight Music Theater
15th-century Verona and modern-day NYC collide in this new musical comedy! Experience a fresh take on Shakespeare's classic when time traveling, romance and New York pizza collide.
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The Dinosaur Play at First Stage Children's Theater
Step back in time, millions and millions of years ago, when dinosaurs roamed the earth. There you will meet a dinosaur egg, tapping out a call for help. It’s up to you to figure out what the egg is saying and how to help it hatch. During your adventure, you will befriend a surly Triceratops, help protect a newly formed dinosaur family, and defeat the Tyrannosaurus Rex.
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"The Craic" at Stackner Cabaret
Step in to one of South Kerry's most welcoming pubs, somewhere along the Dingle peninsula, where stories and songs flow as easy as a whiskey and a pint – with a group of master storyteller-musicians leading the way. From jigs and fairy tales, to drinking songs and war stories, you’ll enjoy good cheer and great company while having some craic along the way.
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Nephew Tommy at Milwaukee Improv
His television and film work consist of appearances on Showtime at the Apollo, B.E.T., Sister-Sister, and The Parkers. So how is Thomas Miles selling out comedy shows across the country? Because he's Nephew Tommy, and a member of the #1 syndicated morning show in the country. The Steve Harvey Morning Show!
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Evan Hull at The Laughing Tap
Standup comedian Evan Hull is headlining two nights of comedy at The Laughing Tap this weekend, and it's for a live comedy recording! Join in on the fun!
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The Big 4-0: New Views of the Collection at Haggery Musuem of Art
The Haggerty Museum of Art at Marquette University presents an exhibition in celebration of its 40th anniversary. Curated by Dr. Kirk Nickel, Marc and Lillian Rojtman Curator of European Art, the show comprises a two-part installation of the exhibition galleries, in fall 2024 and spring 2025, and features well over 100 works of art from the Museum’s collections.
Exhibit Info
Try a new restaurant!
It’s impossible to know what 2025 will bring. But we're certain of one thing. Regularly supporting our locally owned restaurants is among the most impactful things we can vow to do. Lori Fredrich's list of 52 Restaurants for 2025 is here!
#52Restaurants
