Since 2011, Bay View Gallery Night has organized “Milwaukee’s largest annual celebration of art, local business, music, and community.” The massive neighborhood-wide event brings together talented area artists and musicians, along with an eclectic mix of Milwaukee bars, restaurants and retailers for a large-scale happening that has quickly become a part of the Bay View tradition. It’s free. It’s fun. It’s locally-focused. What more can you ask for? How about an autumn edition?

Though there was already a 2026 installment of Bay View Gallery Night in May, we’re pleased to report Bay View Gallery Night will return for a fall version on Friday, September 25. To prepare you for the bustling night ahead, we’ve assembled this quick-hitting and to-the-point guide to tell you what to expect to see, hear, experience, and drink at each of the 50-plus participating sites during this year’s Bay View Gallery Night festivities. [All descriptions courtesy of BVGN.org]

Lincoln Warehouse
We are excited to invite you to explore the vibrant creative community at Lincoln Warehouse! Our Building is home to a diverse group of artists, breweries, photographers, barbers, tattoo artists, and many more. Without a doubt, you will find unique businesses that cater to a wide range of interests. We encourage you to come out and discover the hidden gems within our community. Complimentary shuttle service to the Hide House running during the event.

Melt Chocolates
Melt Chocolates is excited to welcome MIAD students A. Burrus-Dessert and Ben Smith as guest artists for the Fall 2026 Bay View Gallery Night. As a multimedia artist, Ava explores themes of self, discomfort, and pop culture across a diverse range of visual styles. Ben complements this by using the visual language of animation to examine survival, vulnerability, and the external forces that threaten us.

New Barons Brewing Co-op

Join us at New Barons for our 6th anniversary of having our taproom in Bay View! Featuring artist Chris Walker, with music by David Rothe (6-8 PM), and food from Curry Cat MKE.

Torzala Brewing Company
Torzala Brewing Company will host a few very talented local artists this fall & feature live music! Amy Rose. Amy makes fun, humorous, creative prints, magnets, etc. Jessi Schnell. Jessi created Dr. Jessi’s Wild Bunch – a collection of adventurous handmade stuffed toys. Laura P. owns Particular Modern + Vintage and creates extraordinary handcrafted earrings. NEW for this BVGN: LIVE MUSIC by Leah Jee in the taproom from 6p to 8p! Pop on in and enjoy a pint or two of our local craft beer/seltzer while listening to music and chatting with these wonderful women! Their pieces will be available for purchase. TBCo is on the second floor in the Lincoln Warehouse.

Museum Of Beer And Brewing

Memorabilia of beer and brewing, along with various items for sale: coasters, glasses, magnets, ball caps, note cards with envelopes. Sally Kroening will exhibit unique hand made hats, bags, etc.

Jalisco’s Cantina

Jalisco’s Cantina is proud to welcome guests of Bay View Gallery Night! Enjoy an evening surrounded by artwork displayed throughout our restaurant, featuring work from local artists including @elguerosmurals and @sketchy_tony, while experiencing the vibrant flavors and culture of Jalisco. We’ll be featuring live mariachi music, our wide selection of handcrafted margaritas, and an impressive tequila collection with over 100 selections to explore. Come for the art, stay for the music, food, drinks, and a true taste of Jalisco!

Twisted Path Distillery

Showing work from Fine Art Photographer Rodney Johnson.

Bust-N-Stuff

Sarah Talaska is a self-taught multimedia artist. Her work is heavily inspired by nature and surreal art, and often contains unsettling creatures and mysterious phenomena. Original art, prints, and unique handmade earrings will be available for purchase.

Component Brewing

We’ll be featuring the works of local ceramicist Dawn Doan, Johnny’s Hot Sauces, a glimpse into the mastery of tying flies with David Sells, as well as mini-mani’s and press-ons from Hand Job Nails!

Pedro’s Barbershop

Hosting Tattoo artist Dan Gietzel and Eric Brown. Featuring art by Zach Johnson and Zac Jacobson. Fu*ked Since Birth will also be selling clothing, accessories.

17th Ward Authentic Spirits
Art Forgers: Flesh on canvas for a price. Pete Schlasser, Hi Fi Pete, Troy Tatlock, Todd Dakins, Andy Deweerdt, Terry McCauley, Christian Ricco, Jeff Sadowski, Tom Holleran. Craft Cocktails available at the Bar. Maybe a few specials designed for BVGN! Art Night Bites food pop up. Warm Bread + Dipping Oil, Chicken Skewer, Steak Skewer, Caprese Skewer. (Until sold out.)

EsterEv Restaurant

EsterEv is pleased to host the Fruity Studio, a collective of queer Asian creatives based in Milwaukee, run by Yen Nguyen (she/they/he) and An Tran (he/him). Their love for bold and fun colors as well as patterns and sense of nostalgia are incorporated into their work. They want to bring happiness and joy to they costumers through their product, whether it’s a pair of earrings, fridge magnets, or even simple prints.

Milwaukee Makers Market
Milwaukee Makers Market is Back at Zillman Park with a special BVGN Mini-Market Pop-Up. Makers include Candles, Jewelry, Artwork, Clothing, Dog Accessories & MORE!

Mac’s Pet Depot Barkery

Human appetizers and wine, and edible art for dogs!

RSVR

Step out of the gallery crawl and into another dimension at RSVR. Inside, strap on a headset, play some VR games, or create your own work of art in the virtual reality app “Tilt Brush”. Then head to the backyard, where Greezer — Milwaukee’s own Green Day/Weezer cover band — kicks off a free live show at 7:30. Come for the art, stay for the riffs.

Voyageur Book Shop

In the basement: a 5-hour jam by Fundamentals and friends. And as always, custom poems by Anja Notanja on the sidewalk.

Tease Salon

Tease Salon will be hosting various artists featuring their homemade creations. We’ll have music playing in the alley next to the salon, refreshments for the public as well as a free hair tinsel station and great vibes! Monica Verette – Suncatchers + “Beaded Forever” plants, Melissa Kovacevich – Jewelry pieces, Theresa Wait – Mixed media art/paintings, Scott Whipple – Woodworking pieces/scupltures, Ben Slatky – Portrait/Abstract Paintings, Heidi – Abstract Paintings, Kira Rossetto – Henna designs + Seasonal handmade soaps, Caitlin Sack – Crochet plushies.

Fiber Fever

Featuring Aleigh Makes and Azahar Knits. Meet the artists and explore our charming, whimsical creature-filled creations. We’ll have illustrations, knitwear, and yarn!

Revel Bar

Showing work from Erica Wright aka Raven Darkholme, Gaby Avila, Felipe Franco, and Mariah Skenandore.

Roxartmke
Art by Roxane Mayeur. Open studio and sale at roxartmke studio. Roxane will open her newly expanded studio, exhibiting her mixed media encaustic paintings and gifts. Stop by around 8pm for a short demonstration of the encaustic (hot wax) painting process.

Cafe LuLu

Featuring Sharon Mergener showcasing mixed media paintings inspired by nature-landscapes, waterscapes, and portalscapes.

Colectivo Coffee Roasters

Milwaukee artist Andrew Greseth presents sculptural works made from found and discarded materials, exploring memory, time and the hidden histories of everyday objects. Singer-songwriter Kyndal J. brings an intimate live set blending jazz, R&B and soul with soulful vocals and heartfelt storytelling. Guitar accompaniment by Max Dragoo. Enjoy a free tasting of our seasonal drip offering and mini bakery samples, alongside our full lineup of Colectivo food and beverages.

The Muse Guesthouse

Join us for a gallery evening featuring the art work of local artists curated by Amy Schmutte: Natalie Shumylo, Charlie Megna, Anita Burgermeister, Natividad Peralta, Thom Ertl, Anna Rodriguez, Jessica Laub, Roxane Mayeur, Curt Schroeder, Sharon Mergener, Joe Zoltak, and Amy Schmutte. Refreshments while they last. All are welcome.

Milwaukee Brewing Company

Hosting a dog-friendly event featuring Jack’s Playground, Skilo’s, and Dapper Dog Co.

Lion’s Tooth

Pre-party for MILK, Milwaukee Indie Local Comics which takes place on Saturday! Meet ‘n’ Greet with MILK’s 2026 Special Guests. Original art, prints, comics and coloring activities for kids and adults!

The Magnet Factory MKE
Artist John McLaughlin presents a captivating blend of original photography and hand-drawn ink illustrations that invite you to explore the beauty of everyday life and the depths of personal expression. This debut gallery show features 199 distinctive pieces, each reflecting the artist’s unique perspective—where urban landscapes come alive through light and shadow, and whimsical illustrations intertwine fantasy with reality. Through intimate self-portraits and striking visual storytelling, John invites you to embark on a journey of discovery, appreciation, & encouraging a deeper connection to the world around us. Join us in celebration of art that resonates with authenticity and emotion. Free popcorn and refreshments while they last.

Semolina MKE

Featuring the mixed-media artwork of Angela DeStefanis, including some of her signature “Plant Porches” (IYKYK), inspired by travels as well as beauty close to home. Owner Petra Orlowski will also have eggshell art on display. Wine, cheese, and specialty Italian food products will be available for sampling. Grilled mortadella skewers with salsa verde will be available for purchase.

Chippy’s

We are a new local toy store and plan to host a kid’s art workshop the week prior to Gallery night and display local kid’s art work from the workshop. We will also plan to have snacks/drinks. More details TBA.

Ela Mari Boutique

Featuring Meagan Sondergaard (House of Ash and Grace) with a live painting demonstration, enjoy ambient music and refreshments, and take advantage of exclusive storewide deals while you shop.

URSA

Featuring artwork by Emily Indigo, and a mini market pop-up on our patio with local makers.

Deco Salon And Spa

Jil Ortíz features mounted and framed photographs depicting the splendor of nature, sometimes in very unexpected ways. She will also have notecards with original art. Scarlet’s Bakery will have delicious handmade goodies for purchase. Michael Hagan is a sculptor and potter with an emphasis on Folk and Native art, particularly from the Americas. He is represented by the Woodwalk Gallery in Door County, WI.
Deco salon is thrilled to be celebrating our 10th anniversary. Libations will be on hand! Hope to see you there!

The Newport

Newport looks forward to hosting Bill and his handcrafted metal sculptures. Bill sources his supplies through household and automotive odds and ends accumulated through generations of “never know when you’ll use that” objects passed down. Scrap shapes dictate what concept he will craft. Today’s metalwork collection is comprised mostly of animal and nature themes and 100% of all art sale proceeds will go towards supplies to support MADACC (Milwaukee Area Domestic Animal Control Commission).

Goodkind

Saebra is a Milwaukee-based artist working primarily in acrylic, watercolor, and ink. Her work centers on women and animals, exploring femininity, power, vulnerability, and the instinct to protect what is precious.

Puddler’s Hall

Featuring two local Bay View artists including Samantha Henson and Steven Booth. Samantha will exhibit artwork incorporating pen and ink, playful characters, and watercolor. Steven will exhibit abstract acrylic portraits.

At Random

Featuring handmade jewelry from Dew Studio, with handmade clothing and accessories from Diana Notes, and acrylic paintings on small-scale canvas by Pigmy Paints. Most art will be on the patio, weather permitting. (patio is all-ages friendly until 8pm, lounge entry limited to age 21+ only).

Groppi’s

Enjoy art on our patio with Sara Terrell. Sara is an artist, designer and educator living and working in Milwaukee.

Club Garibaldi

21+ only. Dolly Tribute night, featuring local musicians, Songbirding Dolly Parton tunes. Local artists displaying Dolly art.

Burnhearts

Live painting and prints for sale with Ari Kohll and Meg Schmidt.

Beth Eaton Pottery/Cozy Collective
Outdoor mini-market and live music by Hi Score and Tlalok Rodriguez.

Iron Fist Tattoo

Iron Fist Tattoo artist with displayed art such as paintings, glass art and more. A DJ may be present.

Hide House
Hide House is home to a vibrant community of talented professionals, including artists, photographers, barbers, tattoo artists, make-up artists, hair stylists, vintage shops and even a cozy coffee shop and cider maker. Within this creative building, you’ll find a variety of unique businesses that cater to a wide range of interests. There is something here for everyone! Complimentary shuttle service to the Lincoln Warehouse available during the event.

Scout Gallery

Viewer will experience “HERE/NOW” An exhibition featuring all of the Scout studio artists. Featuring: Dara Larson, Daniel Fleming, Stephanie Copoulos-Selle, James Demski – Jimbot, Ven Loetz, Ann Hetzel, Tori Tasch, Emily Porter-Tayler & Terry Tayler.

Milwaukee Makers Marketplace & Artery Ink

Milwaukee Makers Marketplace & Artery Ink will be open with special BVGN hours 11am-9pm. Browse local goods from over 60+ local artists, makers, and creatives. The Marketplace Gallery will also showcase Original Artwork from Pink Widow Tattoo Artists –  each artist brings a unique style and uses a variety of mediums to execute their vision. Be it pop culture, illustrative botanicals, or creatures from the depths of our imaginations, the artwork highlights each artist’s individuality and creativity that gives a visual representation of the things that inspire them most.  Pink Widow is an all-female tattoo shop that prioritizes inclusivity and safety for every skin tone, gender, and body type.

Art! By Jason Krukowski

Welcome to Art Studio 206 showcasing my original paintings and prints! The theme is love and romance set in the backdrop of Milwaukee. As vinyl records spin, lose your heart in stories, captured in illustrations or paintings. Lots to see and explore. A favorite by many!

Cache Cider

Framed pastels by Carol Rode-Curley. Curated by Scout Gallery. Live Music.

Verdant Mind & Body

Showcasing Victoria Bernd’s watercolor and pencil art inspired by music and nature, and the stories they tell her. Also with Jak Walter displaying his nature photography, and an eclectic mix of original illustrations. Also, on display will be a wide selection of crystals and handmade jewelry.

Jasher’s Organic Tea House

Featuring artist/painter Jonathan Shaw and photographers Dan & Maralea DeDecker, live musicians and free samples of masala chai and herbal/other teas.

Strange Scene

Visit Strange Scene to see the works of Warren DeBoer, a self-taught artist who takes inspiration from symbolism of Catholic and Orthodox paintings to reflect society’s exploitation of people and animals. Strange Scene is a new queer-focused, woman-owned metaphysical supply shop that highlights the link of spirituality to the arts and craft.

Shape Up Shoppe

Our paintings, ceramics, stone/gem wall hangings, prints, and canvas art are all provided by female artists that are members of the Shape Up Shoppe. Our professional artists, also members are Steph Gibart and Barb Poklar. Most pieces are available for purchase. We also feature foil walls, 80’s throw-back decor featuring oversized album covers and logos, along with an original piece by Mark Sijan. Contest: the closest guess to the weight of the Marlin wins a $50 gift certificate! Refreshments available.

Hué Asian Kitchen

Wisconsin-based artist Oceana Guerrero. Working primarily in oil, her canvases isolate figures in private, unposed moments, often with the face obscured or turned away, favoring intimacy over spectacle. Pieces will be available for sale.

Outpost Natural Foods

Staff art in aisles, samples available. Vibrant paintings by Brian Hibbard in the cafe (curated by Scout Gallery).

No Instructions

No Instructions is pleased to present ‘Life of a Luddite’, a solo exhibition of new paintings by Fred Smith. Featuring intimate panel paintings alongside a return to large-scale canvas, the exhibition follows Smith’s recurring figures through scenes familiar and imagined. Taking its title from the 19th-century Luddites, the work reflects on technology’s place in contemporary life and Smith’s relationship to painting.

Clementine’s Tavern
Final Girl Hunters with artists: Anna Rodriquez, visible artifacts, Burton Gross, The Paintress, Adam Matthew Ink, POMA Art.

Bay View Chiropractic

Dr. Fritz invites you to begin your weekend by decompressing at BVC. Enjoy lite refreshments and peruse artworks created by Melissa LeClair. You will see handcrafted resin table tops, unique Crinoid necklaces and kid friendly driftwood Art kits. All natural materials are collected from our beautiful Lake Michigan shoreline.

NEWaukee

NEWaukee artists will have their work on display, and there will be a mini rave!

SwanSong

Featuring Karen Lindholm-Rynkiewicz’s still life paintings, filled with luscious color and reflected light.

8 Branches

Lisa Balistreri-Geib is embracing a playful new path of exploration, guided by her love of vibrant color and contrast. Her watercolor paintings explore themes of ancient statuary, the “tangled” threads of complex relationships, and the power and beauty of water. Abby Jacobi of Resonant Heart joins her, providing therapeutic sounds that create an immersive experience.

Busby’s

Bay View artist Kyle Sartorelli presents a striking collection of pen-and-ink drawings created on found paper. Rooted in simplicity and refined through years of dedicated practice, Kyle’s distinctive work transforms minimal materials into compelling, eye-catching images.

The Jewelers Guild

Live demos of forged earrings , free snacks and beverages, studio tours.

About The Author

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Co-Founder and Editor

Before co-founding Milwaukee Record, Tyler Maas wrote for virtually every Milwaukee publication (except Wassup! Magazine). He lives in Bay View and enjoys both stuff and things.