Milwaukee is chock full of things to do, but only a handful of Milwaukee events are worthy of the lofty honor of “Record Recommended” (patent pending). Here are our recommendations—brought to you by Lilliput Records—for August 18-24, 2025.
MONDAY, AUGUST 18
Musical Mondays: Laura Rain And The Caesars @ Lake Park Summer Stage
No Milwaukee outdoor summer concert series is quite as cozy—or quite as eclectic—as Musical Mondays. The free summertime series takes place on the Lake Park Summer Stage, near the playground, throughout July and August. And this year’s season—Musical Monday’s 27th!—is another winner. As for this week: “A proud product of the Motor City, hard-driving singer Laura Rain and her hot band pump out soul, R&B and funk originals worthy of the many greats hailing from Detroit, with fearless emotion and excitement.”
Ultra Deluxe + Killer High Life, Courtesy, Disposable Thumbs @ X-Ray Arcade
TUESDAY, AUGUST 19
Chill On The Hill: WMSE’s Local/Live with Lauryl Sulfate + Cozy Danger @ Humboldt Park
For two decades, Bay View Neighborhood Association’s Chill On The Hill music series—presented in partnership with Milwaukee County Parks—has brought music to Humboldt Park’s band chalet every Tuesday between the beginning of June and the end of August. The entire 20th anniversary lineup is great, and this week is no exception. Upbeat indie-rock outfit Cozy Danger will open a show headlined by Milwaukee pop phenom Lauryl Sulfate. Oh, and WMSE’s Local/Live will broadcast live from the event!
Breaking And Entering Presents: Beat Battle ft. 9th Wonder @ The Cooperage
“Join Breaking And Entering and Hip Hop Week MKE for the first-ever Hip Hop Week Beat Battle at The Cooperage, with special guest judge 9th Wonder! It all goes down on Tuesday, August 19th, when the top eight competitors from this year’s Big Beat MKE beat battle run it back with new matchups for this event. The winners of the August 19th battle will go on to compete in the finals at The Rave. Head to The Cooperage for four beat battles, plus a DJ set from 9th Wonder afterwards!”
Indigo Girls + Melissa Etheridge @ BMO Pavilion
Come to our Pavilion, walk inside and wait by the light of the moon. Come to our Pavilion, Melissa Etheridge and Indigo Girls will be here soon. Yes, these two legends will be swinging by the BMO Pavilion on Tuesday, August 19 as part of their “Yes We Are” tour.
Argopelter @ Haven Cafe
Argopelter is an improvised experimental trio composed of Barry Paul Clark (bass), Devin Drobka (drums), and Christopher Porterfield (guitar). The group’s past residencies at Boone & Crockett are the stuff of legend; this summer, Argopelter has taken up residence in the cozy confines of Haven Cafe.
MX LONELY + Okay Omen, Frantic Repair, Shrinestone @ Sugar Maple
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 20
Milwaukee Record Presents: Weird: The Al Yankovic Story @ Avalon Atmospheric Theater
Everyone knows the absolutely true story of music legend “Weird Al” Yankovic. But have you seen this 100% true origin story dramatized in a 100% true biopic? And have you seen that 100% true biopic on the big screen? Well, the answer to the second question is likely NO, because Weird: The Al Yankovic Story was released directly to The Roku Channel in 2022. But we’re screening it tonight at the Avalon Atmospheric Theater! Yep, this is the one where Daniel Radcliffe plays Yankovic, where Evan Rachel Wood plays Madonna, and where a host of oddball celebrities play a host of other oddball celebrities in an infamous pool party scene. Get your tickets now!
Beat Battle ft. Benny The Butcher + Judged By The Conductor, Kia Rap Princess @ The Rave / Eagles Club
“Hip-Hop Week MKE and Breaking & Entering Milwaukee present Beat Battle, judged by The Conductor, featuring Benny The Butcher and special guest Kia Rap Princess. The city’s dopest producers face off in a no-holds-barred beat battle at 8 p.m., and when the smoke clears Benny The Butcher takes the stage. Buffalo bars. Griselda grit. uncut hip-hop at its finest. From the dark alleys of Buffalo to the top of the rap game, Benny The Butcher is bringing his raw unfiltered lyricism to the MKE Hip-Hop Week Beat Battle Wednesday August 20.”
Cat Crash + Cricket, Kat And The Hurricane, Hemlock Chaser @ X-Ray Arcade
Washington Park Wednesdays: Chris Crane + Pay The Devil @ Washington Park Bandshell
THURSDAY, AUGUST 21
ArtBlaze @ McKinley Beach
“The beloved ArtBlaze series that made a real splash last summer returns this Thursday at the newly revamped McKinley Beach. Thanks to the vision of Milwaukee’s public art nonprofit Joy Engine, this all-ages event will provide a curated set of music, dancers, vendors, art activities, performances, as well as delicious waterside s’mores. Bonus: thousands of selfies will be snapped in the presence of the ‘Threshold,’ a new art experience by FuzzPop Workshop and UW-Milwaukee Architecture students.”
Fresh Coast Jazz Festival @ The Pabst Theater (through August 23)
“Fresh Coast is one of the country’s premiere smooth jazz festivals and it just keeps getting better! This year’s festival features performances by legendary smooth jazz stars and some of the hottest young talent in the game including Gerald Albright, Jeff Lorber Fusion, Chris Standring, Four80East, Kayla Waters, The Braxton Brothers, and more! Plus, as always, you will enjoy great events like The Pairing (our concert and wine-tasting event featuring the music of Sade) and the ever-popular Fresh Coast Cruise.”
Me Like Bees + Parrotfish, Bowvee @ X-Ray Arcade
“Formed on the heels of the 2000s indie rock scene, Missouri-based indie rock band, Me Like Bees, was created by college dropout Pete Burton and former gas station clerk Luke Sheafer in 2009. The pair met while playing high school football together in Kansas; only to lose touch and serendipitously end up at the same college town in southwest Missouri several years later. The duo shared a mutual affinity for the music of the aughts. Bands like The Strokes, Modest Mouse, The White Stripes, and Franz Ferdinand would serve as the catalyst to the danceable, guitar- driven rock that Me Like Bees would become known for.”
Simple Plan + 3OH!3, Bowling For Soup, Lolo @ BMO Pavilion
“For more than two decades, Simple Plan has been one of the most culturally and commercially successful bands in rock. Their multi-platinum 2002 debut album, No Pads, No Helmets… Just Balls bore the smash singles ‘I’d Do Anything,’ ‘I’m Just A Kid,’ ‘Addicted’ and ‘Perfect,’ while subsequent hits ‘Welcome To My Life,’ ‘Summer Paradise,’ ‘Untitled (How Could This Happen To Me?),’ ‘Shut Up!’ and ‘What’s New Scooby-Doo?’ have cemented their legacy as pop-punk legends.”
Zach Bryson + Marina Madden, Old Pup, Dandy L. Freling @ Falcon Nest
Jimmy Ray & Steve Cohen @ Ope! Brewing Co.
Hillbilly Casino + The Grovelers @ Shank Hall
John Christensen Trio @ The Estate (post-show record spin with DJ Caleb Westphal)
Edelweiss Concert Cruise Series: One Louder @ Milwaukee River, 205 W. Highland Ave.
It’s Alive: Hildegarde DejaVu @ Milwaukee Public Market
Jazz At The Vine: Donna Woodall Group @ Humboldt Park
Thursday Bike Night Concert Series: Chris Haise Band @ Harley-Davidson Museum
Tunes@Noon: Montage @ Courtyard of 411 East Wisconsin Center
Under The Bridge: Allison Mahal @ Third Space Brewing
West Allis Summer Concert Series: The Cactus Bros. @ Veterans Memorial Park, West Allis
FRIDAY, AUGUST 22
Mexican Fiesta @ Henry Maier Festival Park (through August 24)
“Mexican Fiesta is back for its 52nd edition, bringing the vibrant culture, color, traditions, taste, and music of Mexico to Milwaukee’s lakefront! This year’s festival promises to be a spectacular celebration while supporting a meaningful cause—raising funds for scholarship awards for young Hispanic students attending college. Prepare to be mesmerized by an array of national and international acts that will fill the air with the captivating sounds of Mexican culture. From traditional mariachi bands to contemporary Latin artists, the entertainment will keep you dancing and singing along all day and night. Indulge in the authentic flavors of Mexico with a variety of food vendors offering delicious traditional dishes. From tacos and tortas to churros and horchata, there’s something to satisfy every palate.”
Lil Wayne + Tyga, Belly Gang Kushington @ American Family Insurance Amphitheater
“Tha Carter VI Tour: Built on 20+ years of Carter Classics. Don’t miss Lil Wayne with Tyga and Belly Gang Kushington in Milwaukee on Friday, August 22 at the American Family Insurance Amphitheater.”
Cypress Hill + Atmosphere, Lupe Fiasco, The Pharcyde @ The Rave / Eagles Club
The Rave will be deep in the “Dank Daze Of Summer” on Friday, August 22 when a quartet of hip-hop greats converge in Milwaukee. If you’re not at that night’s Lil Wayne show, you pretty much have no excuse to skip seeing Cypress Hill, Atmosphere, Lupe Fiasco, and The Pharcyde at the Eagles Club.
Jessica Kirson @ Turner Hall Ballroom
“Jessica Kirson is a dynamic force in comedy, celebrated for her high-energy performances, ridiculous characters, and self deprecating vulnerability. With a career spanning over two decades, she has found an audience for her comedy on social media, where she has racked up over a billion views.”
Skatefest 2025 @ Red Arrow Park (also August 23)
“Celebrating the many unique styles of Black Culture Roller Skating! Inspiring health, community, diversity, and joy!”
Kneafsey + Maximiano, Ellie Jackson @ Cactus Club
Blue Unit + Snowcuffs, Wavefiler @ Uptowner
Max & The Fellow Travelers + Glass Beagle, Sludge Hawking @ Linneman’s Riverwest Inn
Ozomatli: 30 Revolutions Tour @ Vivarium
Primitive Broadcast Service + People In Trouble, Curbsitter @ MKE Ultra
Nox Novacula + World In Action, DT Harm @ Club Garibaldi
Ocean Sleeper + Garzi, Vacant Voice, Haunter @ X-Ray Arcade
Broken Arrow + Candy Cigarettes, The Coves @ Falcon Nest
Garrett Waite Trio @ The Estate (2 shows)
Eli White And The Art Of + *aya, Anara, FTBK, Kai, Onyx @ Jazz Gallery Center For The Arts
The Argo Free Concert Series: Josh Bryant & Adam Powers @ Ivanhoe Plaza
It’s Alive: Jon Rouse @ Lakefront Brewery
Retro Video Party: DJ Zerocool @ Mad Planet
SATURDAY, AUGUST 23
WMSE’s 15th Annual Backyard BBQ @ Humboldt Park
For the past decade and a half, WMSE’s Backyard BBQ has spiced up the waning days of summer with a shot of music, food, drink, and good vibes. And it’s all free! Two years ago, the legendary Bob Mould headlined the BBQ; last year, it was the equally legendary Guided By Voices. For 2025, WMSE will tap a closer-to-home legendary act for its BBQ headliner. Yep, ’90s Midwest emo giant Braid will headline the 15th annual fest on Saturday, August 23, in Humboldt Park. Collections Of Colonies Of Bees, Voodoo Honey Brass Band, Moonglow, The R&B Cadets, and DJs Caryn and Kelly round out the top-shelf lineup.
Backyard BBQ After Party: Jay Anderson + Stomata @ The Estate
“Please join us in welcoming Jay Anderson back to town, and back to the stage at the Estate, along with his group Stomata, Anthony Deutsch, Genesis Renji and Tarik Moody for one big show on Saturday August 23rd! 91.7 FM WMSE is proud to partner with the Jazz Estate to bring you this big Backyard BBQ post-party!”
Station No. 6 Anniversary Party @ Station No. 6
Since opening in 2019, Station No. 06 has made a name for itself with its inventive cocktails, an impressive craft beer list, sporadic food pop-ups, an outstanding patio, and legendary meat raffles to raise money for charitable causes. On Saturday, August 23, the bar will celebrate its sixth anniversary with a winning blend of live music, rare beers, specialty cocktails, food, and fun. Station No. 06’s Sixth Anniversary will run from noon to 10 p.m. During that 10-hour span, there will be a lot happening, so—with the help of the bar’s Operator and Partner Miles Patzer—we’ve taken the liberty of breaking it into sections for you. Check out all the action HERE.
Float Fest 2025 @ Float Milwaukee
Starting at 3 p.m., a parcel of pavement on the 200 block of Freshwater Way will be closed off to allow for live entertainment, food vendors, and fun in honor of Float Milwaukee’s 10th anniversary. Your senses won’t be deprived at Float for a change, as Immortal Girlfriend performs. There will be a mermaid, calming soundscapes by Bernard from Adagio Sound Healing Studio, and on-site yoga from MKE Yoga Social. There will also be fire dancing by Sophie Shapeless, as well as aerialism from Mooncat and Kristin Smarelli, along with pole dancing from Pole Factory MKE. Float Festers are also encouraged to pick up food from Romero’s Taco Truck and the Cocina Filipina food trucks that will be parked at the festival. Broken Bat Brewing will also have beer, seltzer, and non-alcoholic options available for purchase on-site, and The Chai Company will be handling caffeinated beverages.
Emmitt James Big Band BBQ @ Third Space Brewing
The ever-active Emmitt James is always up to something, but since the hip-hop/jazz musician moved back to his native Milwaukee from Los Angeles just over three years ago, his annual “Big Band BBQ” has pretty much been his Super Bowl. The third annual affair will bring a 25-piece band (!!!) to Third Space Brewing for a can’t-miss performance. The show is free, but any proceeds raised through sponsorship and donations will benefit Your Move MKE. Need more? Well, Gemini Gilly will DJ a guest set and Third Space will have a bunch of its award-winning beer on tap.
Oliver Francis + JordanxBell, NilexNile @ X-Ray Arcade
Cassini Echoes + Red Quean, Shrinestone @ MKE Ultra
Fightin’ Bob (record release) + The Taxmen, RJ Ziebarth @ Linneman’s Riverwest Inn
The Spine Stealers + Ross Thorn, Bitch Creek @ Falcon Hall
Brew City Cigar Festival @ Heidelberg Park, Glendale
Current Sounds: Christian Cocroft @ Lakefront Brewery
Summer Night Movies: The Garfield Movie @ Veterans Park
ABBA vs. Queen vs. Blondie @ Mad Planet
SUNDAY, AUGUST 24
Styx & Kevin Cronin + Don Felder @ American Family Insurance Amphitheater
“Legendary rockers Styx and Kevin Cronin, the iconic voice and writer behind REO Speedwagon’s greatest hits, have one of the strongest brotherly bonds spanning 25 years. They’re joining forces for the sixth time for their ‘Brotherhood of Rock’ tour, along with special guest Don Felder (a former lead guitarist for the Eagles). See them live on August 24, at American Family Insurance Amphitheater.”
Rap J (record release) + Riz, Ace Parker, DJ Dscribe @ Anodyne Walker’s Point Roastery
“Rap J is an artist born and raised in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. At the age of six years old, he started freestyling and discovered his passion for hip hop. Born with cerebral palsy, Rap J uses music to express himself and showcase that the condition does not define him. His musical influences include Michael Jackson, Biggie, and Tyler, The Creator. Since the release of Rap J’s latest album Unstoppable, the rapper has been featured on CBS 58, Fox 6, TMJ4, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, and Spectrum News. Rap J’s biggest goal is to give hope through music and prove that any dream is attainable with the right mindset!”
Knoll + Pains, Milorganaut, Scroll @ Cactus Club
Angry Zeta + Little Foot, Dead Dead Swans, Old Wolves @ X-Ray Arcade
Blush + Sunshy, Muted Color, Striped Cow @ Sugar Maple
Cafe Sopra Mare: Toco Rico @ Villa Terrace Decorative Arts Museum
Cathedral Square Market: Jack Tell @ Cathedral Square Park
Summer Patio Music Series: Dianna Jones @ Great Lakes Distillery
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