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 for August 31 – September 6, 2026.

MONDAY, AUGUST 31

Cathedral Becomes Tomb + Todd Umhoefer, Whitty Remarks @ Cactus Club
“Cathedral Becomes Tomb is an audio and visual media project from Wisconsin based artist Barry Paul Clark. Todd Umhoefer is a multi-instrumentalist composer, currently using a looped EWI (Electronic Wind Instrument) to create cinematic avant-classical atmospheres with spiritual undertones. Whitty Remarks is the evolved iteration of Milwaukee experimental folk/pop duo Golden Coins, led by Travis and Ashlee Whitty, and enhanced by regular collaborators. This solo set will feature Travis showcasing a handful of looping, instrumental songs and segues spanning the band’s 20-year run.”

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 1

WMSE’s Local/Live: The Grovelers @ Anodyne Walker’s Point Roastery
“It’s time to go back to school, which means WMSE returns from summer mayhem to do Local/Live from Anodyne on the first Tuesday of each month. The September 1 edition of Local/Live from Anodyne brings a free, all-ages show with The Grovelers, hosted by Sid and Matt Wild. Formed in August 2013, The Grovelers are a high energy rock & roll band with a scorching original sound that draws influence from late ’50s rockabilly, early ’60s garage rock, and ’80s punk rock.”

Chill On The Hill: Los Mitoteros @ Humboldt Park
“Los Mitoteros are a Milwaukee-based Latin ensemble who perform a healthy mix of Mexican Regional repertoire and Latin Jazz standards rooted in Afro Caribbean traditions. Formed in September 2021, the group started as a passion project between long time friends Ryder Haferman and Tlalok Rodriguez. Since then the group has expanded into a more polished Latin band.”

Noche de Migrantes: El Águila y El Cóndor Tour @ Villa Arco
“A night of live music and genuine community featuring Audry Funk and FACEvsIT. More than a concert (although the music will be incredible!), Noche De Migrantes offers a space for community, connection, and storytelling. Enjoy live performances from Audry Funk, FACEvsIT, Ixchelita, and Nalani and stay for conversations about being in diaspora, immigration, and community.”

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 2

Milwaukee Record Club: I Love The ’90s (Songs From The 1990s) @ Wiggle Room
One night every month, Milwaukee Record takes over the Wiggle Room decks for a monthly collaborative vinyl spin called Milwaukee Record Club. From 6-9 p.m., we’ll drop the needle on vinyl releases that adhere to the month’s specific theme. Though we’ll bring enough music to cover a full set, we’re asking—no, we’re strongly encouraging—people to bring in their own vinyl that fits our chosen theme. If we think it’s a fit, we’ll play it!

Orchid Mantis + SSAANN, In Shining Armour @ Cactus Club

I’ll Remember April + Backseat Dragon, Casual Sex @ MKeUltra

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 3

The RIDE Home @ Harley-Davidson Museum + Harley-Davidson dealerships (through September 6)
“The RIDE Home takes over the Harley-Davidson Museum and Milwaukee-area H-D dealerships September 3-6 for four days of motorcycles, free live music, high-energy entertainment, food, riding and unforgettable experiences in the city where Harley-Davidson began. From Lita Ford on Thursday and Hippies & Cowboys with a guest appearance by Jesse James Dupree of Jackyl on Friday to Noise Pollution on Saturday, the main stage delivers free live music throughout the weekend, with additional bands performing during the day Friday and Saturday.”

Carrellee + Bragolin, Faketwin, Memory Spector, Goth Barge DJs @ X-Ray Arcade
“A dream night for darkwave, synth, and post-punk devotees. Dutch darkwave powerhouse Bragolin makes their way to the Midwest alongside the ethereal synth mastery of Carrellee and local post-punk unit Faketwin. Goth Barge DJs will be on deck spinning dark anthems before, between, and after the bands.”

Happy Together Tour @ Marcus Performing Arts Center
“Twenty-twenty-six will mark the 17th year of the highly successful, hit-filled summer package, The ‘Happy Together’ Tour! The touring sensation that has crisscrossed the nation delighting audiences for over a decade and a half returns this summer with a show full of chart-topping hits from the ’60s and ’70s—an undeniable 60+ Billboard Top 40 smashes.”

Dad Bods + Courtesy, Heavy Bend, Shoobie @ Cactus Club

Cathedral Square Market @ Cathedral Square Park

Jazz In The Park: Whole Yachta Love @ Cathedral Square Park

Jazz At The Vine: Donna Woodall Group @ Humboldt Park

Paul Sprawl @ Ope! Brewing Co.

It’s Alive!: Blacktop @ Milwaukee County Historical Society

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 4

Wisconsin Highland Games @ Waukesha County Expo (through September 6)
“The Wisconsin Highland Games is a celebration of all things Scottish! Pipers, axe throwing, archery caber tossing, Celtic food and drink, Celtic vendors, sheep herding demonstrations, living history, live Celtic music and much more!!”

Brad Paisley + Jake Worthington, Laci Kaye Booth @ BMO Pavilion
“MCA recording artist Brad Paisley has earned his place in country music history as one of the genre’s most talented and decorated male solo artists. For nearly 25 years, his songwriting and unmatched showmanship have earned him numerous awards, including three Grammys, two American Music Awards, 15 Academy of Country Music Awards, and 14 Country Music Association Awards, including a highly coveted Entertainer of the Year honor and recognition as the most successful CMA Award co-host in history, alongside Carrie Underwood, for 11 consecutive years.”

LIVE! FEST @ Falcon Hall
“LIVE! FEST brings together artists from Milwaukee’s promising and rapidly growing underground rap scene with artists from established underground communities across New York, Atlanta, Chicago, Orlando, and beyond, creating a one-of-a-kind experience unlike anything Milwaukee has seen before!”

Killmoves + Solemn Grey, Tiny Vamp, Crash House @ Cactus Club

Shiner + Bursting, Human Ant Farm @ X-Ray Arcade

Keep Flying + Local Legends, Minnesota Fatts, Jawline @ Anodyne Walker’s Point Roastery

Van Tripper (single release) + Byrdbrain @ Linneman’s Riverwest Inn

Friday Night Retro Dance Party: DJ Paul H @ Mad Planet

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 5

Holy Pinto + Moonglow, Waterspouts @ Vivarium
“Holy Pinto is the indie-pop project of British songwriter Aymen Saleh. Originally formed in Canterbury, England, and now based in Milwaukee, the project celebrates the release of its long-awaited third album, Wedding Season, with a special hometown release show featuring the full band and a handful of wonderful local artists.”

Milwaukee Polka Riot @ Linneman’s Riverwest Inn
Attention polkaholics, polkanewbies, and stans for the Kenosha Kickers: the Milwaukee Polka Riot (“America’s first and only alternative polka festival!”) is set to return this Saturday. The long-running festival’s 2026 installment will take place at Linneman’s Riverwest Inn, both inside and outside the historic Riverwest venue. The Riot—once again organized by the fine folks behind Milwaukee polka hip-hop band November Criminals—will feature performances from them and other polka and polka-adjacent groups, as well as polka-focused DJs and special guest Mario The Poet.

Third Ward Art Festival @ Broadway, between St. Paul and Menomonee (also September 6)
“Free and open to the public, the annual Third Ward Art Festival, in partnership with the Historic Third Ward Association, will showcase the work of over 200 juried artists from around the country in a variety of mediums including ceramics, fiber, glass, jewelry, mixed media, paintings, drawings, photography, and more! In addition to the incredible artwork available for purchase, attendees will be able to interact with artists through demonstrations and booth chats. Live music, great food and drink options from neighboring restaurants and festival food vendors add to the fun vibe!”

Music Go Round x Volta Records Present: Human Ant Farm + Milby, Beach Hazards @ Cactus Club
“Join us on Saturday, September 5 for a special ALL MILWAUKEE installment of our all ages show series, presented to you by Music Go Round and Volta Records. All ages, $15, 7 p.m. As always, Volta Records DJs will be spinning non stop bangers throughout the night.”

Cream City Convergence @ Baird Center
“Cream City Convergence is a one-day celebration of fighting games, bringing together culture and competition in the heart of downtown Milwaukee. Organized by a close-knit and passionate group of grassroots FGC veterans, C3 has quickly become a shining example of what makes the Midwest gaming community so special.”

Current Sounds: Jesse Garwood @ Lakefront Brewery

South Shore Farmers’ Market: Patty & Craig @ South Shore Park

Beyonce vs. Rihanna @ Mad Planet

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 6

The Wallflowers + Early James @ The Pabst Theater
“The Wallflowers will mark the 30th anniversary of their landmark album Bringing Down The Horse with a nationwide U.S. tour. The band will perform their classic album in its entirety, in sequence. Originally released on May 21, 1996, Bringing Down The Horse was a critical and commercial triumph. The album peaked at number four on the Billboard 200 and was certified quadruple platinum, cementing the band’s place in ’90s rock history.”

JoJo Hermann (Widespread Panic) @ The Cooperage
“JoJo Hermann is an American musician best known as the longtime keyboardist for the Southern rock jam band Widespread Panic. Born in New York City in 1962, he grew up with a passion for blues and New Orleans-style piano, influenced by artists like Professor Longhair and Dr. John. After studying at college in Mississippi and immersing himself in the local music scene, Hermann joined Widespread Panic in 1992, adding his signature blend of boogie-woogie piano and organ to the band’s improvisational sound. His dynamic performances and deep love of roots music have made him a fan favorite and a vital part of the band’s enduring success.”

Ex Ibex + Pieper/LePlae/Smith @ Jazz Gallery Center for the Arts
“Ex Ibex is a new/creative music ensemble that brings together five Chicago performers contributing their unique and personal approaches to group improvisation and spontaneous composition. Their distinctive sound—atmospheric, gritty, spacious and rhythmically driving—is informed and inspired by influences including the storied Chicago music scene, contemporary classical, rock, funk, world musics and more. Flowing from one sonic space to the next, Ex Ibex approaches its performances without expectation, leaving the listener constantly captivated with what comes next.”

Hatebreed + Terror, Incantation, Gates To Hell, Torture, Creeping Death @ The Rave / Eagles Club

The Paper Flames + Wyvern, Exitstatements, The Dead Buddhas @ Falcon Nest

The Stitches + Primitvs, Horrid Mass, Curb Sitter @ X-Ray Arcade

Current Sounds: Ava Brennan @ Lakefront Brewery

Summer Night Movies: The Super Mario Galaxy Movie @ Veterans Park

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