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SUN · SEP 27 · 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM

Harbor Fest: What Lies Beneath

ft. Local Milwaukee artists

Harbor View Plaza· Great Lakes Research Facility, 600 E Greenfield Ave
All ages · Free · Just Show Up
FREEFamilies with Young KidsFamilies with Older KidsFoodiesGirls Night Out
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Explore Milwaukee's waterways with boat rides, live music, and hands-on art at Harbor Fest.

Part I

The details

About this event

Harbor Fest returns for its 10th anniversary, celebrating Milwaukee's Inner Harbor with the theme "What Lies Beneath." This free, family-friendly event offers a deep dive into the science and culture of local waterways. Enjoy live performances by Milwaukee artists, interactive art installations, and free boat rides that showcase the new Harbor View Riverwalk.

The festival also features an open house at the UWM School of Freshwater Sciences and the Sturgeon Fest with Riveredge Nature Center, where you can release a baby sturgeon into the harbor. With food trucks and local beverages, it's a day of discovery and fun for all ages. Be sure to snag a commemorative t-shirt to mark the occasion.

From the organizer

A free, all-ages celebration of Milwaukee's Inner Harbor and the waters that connect us all
— Harbor District, Inc.

Getting in

  • Free — Just Show Up

  • Drop in anytime — no commitment needed

Pricing details

Free admission.

Pro tips

  • Parents

    The face painting and bounce house are free and available all afternoon, but they tend to get crowded after 1pm. Head there early to avoid long waits and maximize fun for the kids.

  • Transit & bike

    The free water taxi is a unique way to arrive, but check the pick-up locations in advance as they are not yet announced. It adds to the experience and avoids parking hassles.

What's It Actually Like?

Energy3/5
ZenMosh Pit
Family ChaosFestival Energy

Who'll Be There

Expect a diverse crowd including families, local residents, and community members interested in environmental science and local culture. The free admission and family-friendly activities suggest a wide range of attendees, likely including children and adults of various ages.

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