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 June 24-30, 2024.
TUESDAY, JUNE 25
Chill On The Hill: Pulpa de Guyaba + Faded Places @ Humboldt Park
For nearly two decades, Bay View Neighborhood Association’s Chill On The Hill has brought music to Humboldt Park’s band chalet every Tuesday between June and August. And hey! It’s June! Which means Chill On The Hill is back! Drop by tonight as Pulpa de Guyaba and Faded Places continue Chill’s 19th season in style. Music begins at 6:30 p.m.—and, as always, “IF IT MAKES A CLOUD IT’S NOT ALLOWED.”
Pallbearer + REZN, The Keening @ Vivarium
Jaguar Stevens + Bellends, Billy Russo @ Cactus Club
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 26
Milwaukee Record Presents: Happy Gilmore @ Avalon Atmospheric Theater
Yep, we’re screening Happy Gilmore! The 1996 film stars Adam Sandler has the titular Happy, a wannabe hockey player with a hot temper. When he learns his grandmother’s tax problems have her on the brink of losing her home, Gilmore—known for his powerful-yet-erratic slap shots—reluctantly picks up golf and joins the pro tour in hopes his long drives will help him earn enough money to save the house. Along the way, this goon-turned-golfer faces off against Shooter McGavin (Christopher McDonald in a career-defining role), is mentored by Chubbs Peterson (the late, great Carl Weathers), and falls for Virginia Venit (Julie Bowen). There are also unforgettable cameos by Ben Stiller, Kevin Nealon, Joe Flaherty, Richard Kiel, and that unforgettable interaction with Bob Barker.
Milwaukee Night Market @ Wisconsin Avenue, between 2nd and Vel R. Phillips
THURSDAY, JUNE 27
Summerfest (Weekend 2) @ Henry Maier Festival Park (through June 29)
Summerfest 2024 continues with another Thursday-Friday-Saturday block of music, food, drink, and bleacher seats. AmFam Amphitheater headliners include Illenium, Tyler Childers, and Keith Urban. Out on the grounds, look for acts like Sleater-Kinney, Boys Like Girls, REO Speedwagon, The All-American Rejects, The Hold Steady, The Dandy Warhols, Amos Lee, and many more. The third and final Summerfest weekend is set for July 4-6.
The Rosies + Chapped Lips, Lake Drive @ X-Ray Arcade
Caroline Davis & Wendy Eisenberg @ The Sugar Maple
Jazz In The Park: The Paul Spencer Band @ Cathedral Square Park
FRIDAY, JUNE 28
Packs + Clementine @ X-Ray Arcade
“For Packs, making a record isn’t a means to an end; the making of the record is a communal experience, bottled up for the public to hear. On third album Melt The Honey, Packs explores a state of contentment, even bliss, long elided. The self-produced record honors the unpretentious disaffection of the grunge movement and the inventive arrangements of Guided By Voices, whose prolific output has inspired Packs since their inception.”
SATURDAY, JUNE 29
Enlightened Summer Block Party @ Enlightened Brewing Company
“Our ONLY block party this year is happening on Saturday June 29th! Noon to 11pm. Join us for tasty eats from Sweet Smoke BBQ & Kyote’s Bar & Grill, sweet treats from Joy Ice Cream Social, and live music from Driveway Thriftdwellers and Free Dirt. Music starts at 5pm and fun happens all day long. The street will be blocked off so you’re free to roam and enjoy the beautiful MKE Summer. We’ll also be releasing 3 BRAND NEW beers from the Rough Draught Series, so stay tuned for details on that.
In case you haven’t heard, we’ve rolled out a new menu featuring wine, cider, and canned cocktails so there’s something for everyone! Bring your kids, bring your dogs, and enjoy a great day with us.”
Heather The Jerk + Lavish Waste, Jinksie @ Last Rites
Spine + World I Hate, Burning Bush, Failure Drill @ Cactus Club
Ill Niño + Flaw, A Killer’s Confession, Scarlet View @ The Rave/Eagles Club
Gully Boys + Sunday Cruise, Loveblaster @ X-Ray Arcade
SUNDAY, JUNE 30
Fresh + Rat Bath, Fellow Kinsman, Lunar Moth @ Anodyne Walker’s Point Roastery
“Punks from London who love emo, shredding, touring, oat milk, and using friendship to fill a large and uncertain hole inside of yourself.”
Ultra Deluxe + Thotcrime, Garden Home, Kule, See No Evil @ Cactus Club
Linnea’s Garden + Adorner, Orange Drink @ Bremen Cafe
Americana Brunch: Panalure + Denny Rauen, Betty & Damian @ Radio Milwaukee’s Discourse Coffee
Café Sopra Mare: Don Linke @ Villa Terrace Decorative Arts Museum
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