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Discover Fun Things to Do in Milwaukee with Kids Today!

Looking for family-friendly activities in Milwaukee? Check out the MKE With Kids Events Calendar—your one-stop resource for the best kid-friendly events happening today. We’ve done the hard work, gathering the top activities from around the city into one easy-to-use guide. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, story times, or entertainment options, you'll find something perfect for your family. Want to share an event? Submit it here for consideration.

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Weekly Early Morning Bird Walks at all Urban Ecology Center Locations

Urban Ecology Center at Riverside Park 1500 E Park Place, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, United States +2 more

Start your day with the freshness of morning air and the delightful melody of birdsong. Join fellow bird enthusiasts of all skill levels as we explore the park together, discovering the beauty and wonder of our feathered friends. This is a volunteer opportunity, so to participate you must fill out a volunteer application or login […]

Free

Free Admission to the Milwaukee Public Museum’s Thank You Thursday

Milwaukee Public Museum, 800 W Wells St, Milwaukee, WI 53233, USA 800 W Wells St, Milwaukee, United States

FREE ADMISSION to the Milwaukee Public Museum! 2024 DATES AND TIMES from 10:00am to 5:00pm *Ticket will be accepted for entry anytime between 10:00am and 4:30pm. Visit length is not limited. January 4 February 1 March 7 April 4 May 2 June 6 August 1 September 5 October 3 November 7 December 5  FREE admission for Kohl's Thank You Thursdays. ALL visitors* (excluding […]

Free

Free Admission Day at Villa Terrace Milwaukee Lakefront

Villa Terrace Decorative Arts Museum 2220 N Terrace Ave, Milwaukee, United States

Everyone Invited to Free Day at Villa Terrace! Event features arts, activities and exploration Free Admission Thursday August 01, 2024 | 10:00 am – 5:00 pm Enjoy free admission to the Villa Terrace on the first Thursday of the month. Please note: Dates and times are subject to change, and occasionally events may be cancelled. […]

Free

Storytime at Wonderland Bookshop in Shorewood

Wonderland Bookshop 4001 N Downer Avenue, Shorewood, Wisconsin

Join us for a story time! We will be reading one of our favorite stories every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday. RSVP encouraged but not required. We hope to see you there!   Please note: Dates, times, and pricing are subject to change, and occasionally events may be cancelled. Please check with the event organizer or […]

Free

Friends and Family Game Night at the Urban Ecology Center Washington Park

Urban Ecology Center Washington Park 1859 N. 40th Street, Milwaukee, WI, United States

Thursday, December 5, 12 from 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM / February 6, 13, 20, 27 Washington Park temporary location: Washington Park Pool House 4023 W Galena St Milwaukee WI Calling everyone for an unforgettable evening of laughter and friendly competition at Washington Park! Bring your favorite board games or choose from our selection. Come […]

Free
Event Series 2024 Holiday Events

New Berlin Christmas Tree Lighting

New Berlin Activity & Recreation Center 15321 W National Ave, New Berlin, United States

New Berlin Christmas Tree Lighting Thursday, December 5thNew Berlin’s tree lighting includes Santa story time, holiday music, and hot cocoa for all.Time: 4:30 – 7:00 pm (tree lighting at 5:00 p.m.)Location: Activity & Recreation Center 15321 W National Ave New Berlin WI City of New Berlin's Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony presented by New Berlin Lions […]

Free
Event Series Oak Creek Library 2024 Events

Family Fun: Elephant and Piggie Party at Oak Creek Public Library (Ages 4-11)

Oak Creek Library 8040 S 6th St, Oak Creek, WI, United States

Family Fun: Elephant and Piggie Party at Oak Creek Public Library 8040 S 6th St Oak Creek WI  12/05/2024 from 6:30-7:30pm Ages 4-11 with an adult (siblings welcome) You are invited to a party! An Elephant and Piggie party! Join us for a story time, crafts, and games all celebrating the fan favorites: Gerald and […]

Free

Free First Fridays at Racine Art Museum

Racine Art Museum 441 Main St, Racine, WI, United States

FREE ADMISSION to the Racine Art Museum! December 6  from 10:00am to 8:00pm  Enjoy free Racine Art Museum admission and extended gallery hours from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm on First Friday, December 6. From 4:00 to 7:00 pm, makers of all ages can participate in a Free Family Hands-On Art Activity and create a fun […]

Free
Event Series 2024 Holiday Events

MATC Parade Of Gingerbread Houses at the Milwaukee Public Market

Milwaukee Public Market 400 N Water St, Milwaukee

Step into a winter wonderland at the Milwaukee Public Market, where talented students from the Milwaukee Area Technical College (MATC) Bakery Program present a dazzling display of gingerbread houses! These intricate and imaginative creations, crafted with care and expertise, bring holiday cheer to life through the artistry of MATC’s culinary students. Visitors of all ages […]

Free

MSOE Winter Market Downtown Milwaukee

MSOE Diercks Hall 1025 North Broadway, Milwaukee, United States

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2024, 11AM – 3PM Join us on December 6th from 11a.m.–3 p.m. Shop local artisans, enjoy warm drinks and sweets, create cross-cultural holiday crafts and learn about diverse ways the MSOE community celebrates the holiday season. This event is free and open to the public. Diercks Hall - NVIDIA Atrium - Atrium - Lobby […]

Free
Event Series 2024 Holiday Events

Pewaukee Holiday Tree Lighting

Clark House Museum 206 E Wisconsin Ave, Pewaukee, United States

Pewaukee Holiday Tree Lighting Friday, December 6thPewaukee’s tree lighting includes holiday music, a sing-along, cookies, and Santa visits.Time: 2:00 – 5:00 pm (tree lighting at 5:00 pm)Location: Clark House Museum 206 E Wisconsin Ave Pewaukee, WI Please note: Dates and times are subject to change, and occasionally events may be cancelled. Please check the event […]

Free
Event Series 2024 Holiday Events

Waukesha Night of Lights & Tree Lighting

Downtown Waukesha Waukesha, WI, United States

Waukesha Night of Lights & Tree Lighting Friday, December 6thCelebrate Waukesha’s Night of Lights with hot chocolate, music, Santa, and a lantern stroll after the tree lighting.Time: Tree lighting at 5:30 p.m.; lantern ceremony begins at 6:15 p.m. Please note: Dates and times are subject to change, and occasionally events may be cancelled. Please check […]

Free
Event Series 2024 Holiday Events

Oak Creek Holiday Tree Lighting at Drexel Town Square

Drexel Town Square 361 W Town Square Way, Oak Creek, WI, United States

Oak Creek Holiday Tree Lighting on Friday, December 6th Location:  Drexel Town Square 361 W Town Square Way Oak Creek WIDrexel Town Square lights up with hot cocoa, cookies, kids’ games, and Santa!Time: 5:30 – 7:30 pm (tree lighting at 6:00 pm)Location: Civic Center, 8040 S 6th St Oak Creek, WI  Please note: Dates and times […]

Free

Christmas in the Ward 2024: A Family Guide to Holiday Fun in Milwaukee’s Third Ward

Third Ward Milwaukee 345 N Broadway, Milwaukee

The holiday season is coming to Milwaukee’s Historic Third Ward with Christmas in the Ward—a beloved event that captures the festive spirit in the heart of the city. On Friday, December 6, Catalano Square will be filled with holiday magic, from twinkling lights and live music to Santa visits and cozy treats. Here's your family-friendly […]

Free

Thiensville Holiday Tree Lighting

Join us for our Annual Tree Lighting in downtown Thiensville! Located at the Walgreens Parking lot – Corner of N. Main St. & Freistadt Rd.• Hot chocolate and refreshments to keep warm• The Homestead High School Choir will perform holiday classics• Santa & Mrs. Claus will arrive on their very own Thiensville Fire Department truck […]

Free

Christmas Tree Lighting in Lannon

Come to Lannon for caroling, tree lighting, and selfies with Santa. There will be chili and Mac n Cheese from area businesses and organizations. Please bring a non-perishable food item. This free event is taking place at Lannon Village Hall.

Free

Sussex Holiday Tree Lighting

Sussex Civic Center N64W23760 Main Street, Sussex, WI, United States

Join in the fun of the holiday tree lighting in Sussex! This FREE holiday event is for children of all ages.   Besides the countdown and lighting of the tree, there will be live music by local school children, hot cocoa, and cookies courtesy of Quad. There will also be a visit from Santa!   […]

Free
Event Series 2024 Holiday Events

Sussex Tree Lighting

Sussex Civic Center N64W23760 Main Street, Sussex, WI, United States

Friday, December 6thSussex’s tree lighting includes live music from local schoolchildren, cookies, hot cocoa, and a Santa visit. Donations for Sussex Outreach Services are welcome.Time: 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.Location: Civic Center, N64 W2370 Main St., Sussex Please note: Dates and times are subject to change, and occasionally events may be cancelled. Please check the event […]

Free
Event Series 2024 Open Swims

Milwaukee Recreation Open Swim – Multiple Locations

Various WI, United States

Lap & Open Swim Lap & Open Swim is a FREE program and pre-registration is required. Two lap swim lanes will be available at all sites, except Gaenslen and Marshall. Open Swim and Lap Swim is first-come, first-served. Open Swim dates range from June 15 - Aug. 16 (please reference your specific class upon enrollment). Gaenslen […]

Free

Rooftop Stargazing at the UWM Manfred Olson Planetarium

UWM Manfred Olson Planetarium 1900 E Kenwood Blvd #139, Milwaukee, WI, United States

November 8, 2024 from 8:00pm - 9:00pm & December 6, 2024 from 8:00pm - 9:00pm At the UWM Planetarium 900 E Kenwood Blvd Milwaukee WI Join us on the Skydeck at the UWM Physics building for free public stargazing. Gaze through telescopes at the night sky and view the Moon, planets, star clusters, and other […]

Free

In-Store Kids Workshops at Home Depot

Home Depot - SE MKE 150 W Holt Ave, Milwaukee

In-Store Kids Workshops / Home Depot SE MKE  150 West Holt Avenue Milwaukee, WI 53207 Join us the first Saturday of each month between 9 am – 12 pm for free in-person Kids Workshops. While supplies last. Please note: Dates and times are subject to change, and occasionally events may be cancelled. Please check the event […]

Free – $50
Event Series 2025 Farmers Markets

Milwaukee Winter Farmers Market

The Table 3970 N 54th St, Milwaukee, WI, United States

Milwaukee Winter Farmers Market November 9, 2024 - April 19, 2025 (No market December 28) The market is 9:00AM to 2:00PM The Table 5305 W Capitol Drive Milwaukee WI (enter at the 54th Street entrance) Please note: Dates and times are subject to change, and occasionally events may be cancelled. Please check the event website […]

Free

Family Free Day at the Milwaukee County Zoo

Milwaukee County Zoo 10001 W Bluemound Rd, Milwaukee, United States

Family Free Day – November 2, 2024 & December 7, 2024 from 9:30am - 4:30pm The Zoo is a harvest of beautiful fall colors in October. And on October 5, all guests are admitted FREE! (Parking and regular attraction fees still apply.) To enjoy the vibrant colors of the trees, along with the animals, stroll […]

Free
Event Series 2024 Holiday Events

MATC Parade Of Gingerbread Houses at the Milwaukee Public Market

Milwaukee Public Market 400 N Water St, Milwaukee

Step into a winter wonderland at the Milwaukee Public Market, where talented students from the Milwaukee Area Technical College (MATC) Bakery Program present a dazzling display of gingerbread houses! These intricate and imaginative creations, crafted with care and expertise, bring holiday cheer to life through the artistry of MATC’s culinary students. Visitors of all ages […]

Free

Winter Market in Mequon

Experience our Winter Market in downtown Mequon and discover unique gifts and handcrafted treasures from local craftsmen. Whether you're searching for a one-of-a-kind piece of jewelry, handmade candles, or gourmet treats, our market offers it all! There will also be family-friendly activities. Shop, eat, drink and get yourself in the holiday spirit! 

Free

Storytime at Wonderland Bookshop in Shorewood

Wonderland Bookshop 4001 N Downer Avenue, Shorewood, Wisconsin

Join us for a story time! We will be reading one of our favorite stories every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday. RSVP encouraged but not required. We hope to see you there!   Please note: Dates, times, and pricing are subject to change, and occasionally events may be cancelled. Please check with the event organizer or […]

Free
Event Series Santa’s coming to Thiensville!

Santa’s coming to Thiensville!

Santa is on tour before Christmas and is making Brush and Blooms in Thiensville an official stop! Come and join the magic.   Each child will get an opportunity to meet Santa and receive a signed official certificate for meeting the real Santa! Brush and Blooms is also an official North Pole Express Christmas Letter […]

Free
Event Series 2024 Holiday Events

Tosa Towne Christmas Market

Ruckus & Glee 805 N. 68th Street, Wauwatosa, WI, United States

On the corner of 68th & Wells St in Wauwatosa, collaborators are Ruckus & Glee, Ultimate Confections & Rooted Awakenings. Come for laughter, shopping, Santa, socializing, sipping, carollers, snacks and more! Visit the sweetest corner in Tosa... Please note: Dates and times are subject to change, and occasionally events may be cancelled. Please check the […]

Free

Christmas on the Corner in Port Washington

Downtown Port Washington 116 W Grand Avenue, Port Washington, WI, United States

Join us for our annual Christmas on the Corner event, as we celebrate the holidays in true Hallmark style, complete with horse-drawn carriage rides, photos with Santa and his reindeer, Christmas crafts and cookie decorating, hot cocoa bars, S'more warming zone and window display contest. Then, enjoy our community tree lighting and signing of “O, […]

Free
Event Series 2024 Holiday Events

Holiday Tree Lighting in Greenfield

Konkel Park - Greenfield 5151 W Layton Ave, Greenfield

Holiday Tree Lighting in Greenfield Saturday, December 7, 2024 from 2:00-6:00 PM Konkel Park (5151 W Layton Ave)Brighten up your holidays by celebrating with neighbors and friends at the Annual Greenfield Holiday Tree Lighting! This is a FREE event to kick-off the holiday season. Festive Music Kids Winter Games Entertainment Photos with Santa & Friends Horse […]

Free
Event Series 2024 Holiday Events

Christmas at the Commons in South Milwaukee

Bucyrus Commons 1028 Madison Ave, South Milwaukee, United States

Christmas at the Commons – South Milwaukee Location: Bucyrus Commons, South Milwaukee Date: Saturday, December 7, 2024 Time: 3 PM – 5 PM, with the standstill parade from 4 PM to 5 PM South Milwaukee introduces a unique take on the traditional Christmas parade—a standstill parade! From 4 to 5 PM, attendees can stroll through Bucyrus […]

Free

Winterfest in Shorewood

Shorewood

Don’t miss this fun, family friendly event by taking a stroll around Shorewood to celebrate the Holiday season! Our annual Winterfest event includes meet and greet with Santa at a variety of stops throughout the Village, a tree and Menorah lighting, cookie decorating, and food & drink specials at local establishments! Our very own vintage […]

Free

Trails A Glow: A Winter Experience for All! At the Urban Ecology Center Riverside Park

Urban Ecology Center at Riverside Park 1500 E Park Place, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, United States

Trails A Glow: A Winter Experience for All! At the Urban Ecology Center Riverside Park 1500 E Park Pl Milwaukee WI Saturday, December 07, 2024 Join us for a Milwaukee winter staple, now with two unique ways to enjoy the magic! 4 - 6pm: Family Fun | Bring the whole family for a candlelit walk […]

Free
Event Series 2024 Holiday Events

West Allis Christmas Tree Lighting and Christmas Parade

Downtown West Allis Greenfield Ave. - 70th to 76th Street, West Allis, WI, United States

Annual West Allis Christmas Tree Lighting & Christmas Parade Saturday, December 7th, 2024 from 4:00 pm – 4:45 pm The West Allis Christmas Tree lighting and parade is an annual holiday tradition and the premier night-time Christmas parade in southeastern Wisconsin! Enjoy marching bands and live performers, creative floats and vintage vehicles, meet elves and […]

Free
Event Series 2024 Holiday Events

Santa’s Christmas Calvalcade Downtown Milwaukee

Milwaukee Public Market 400 N Water St, Milwaukee

Santa’s Christmas Calvalcade (Free!) Sat, December 7, 2023 | Departs at 5:15pm from Milwaukee Public MarketFri, December 13, 2023 | Departs at 5:15pm from Milwaukee Public Market See Santa and Mrs. Claus on this festive route riding atop a vintage fire truck featuring local singer/songwriter Sarah Fierek with original holiday tunes. Route departs from the Milwaukee Public Market's Water […]

Free
Event Series 2024 Holiday Events

Santa Meet-and-Greet with Movie Showing (The Polar Express) at the Schuetze Recreation Center Waukesha

Schuetze Recreation Center 1120 Baxter Street, Waukesha, United States

Schuetze Recreation Center 1120 Baxter Street Waukesha WI Come early starting at 5pm to meet Santa and one of his reindeer. You can also create a holiday craft. Starting at 6pm, enjoy the movie, The Polar Express, with free popcorn. Bring your chairs or blankets along! Please note: Dates and times are subject to change, […]

Free
Event Series 2024 Holiday Events

MATC Parade Of Gingerbread Houses at the Milwaukee Public Market

Milwaukee Public Market 400 N Water St, Milwaukee

Step into a winter wonderland at the Milwaukee Public Market, where talented students from the Milwaukee Area Technical College (MATC) Bakery Program present a dazzling display of gingerbread houses! These intricate and imaginative creations, crafted with care and expertise, bring holiday cheer to life through the artistry of MATC’s culinary students. Visitors of all ages […]

Free
Event Series Santa’s coming to Thiensville!

Santa’s coming to Thiensville!

Santa is on tour before Christmas and is making Brush and Blooms in Thiensville an official stop! Come and join the magic.   Each child will get an opportunity to meet Santa and receive a signed official certificate for meeting the real Santa! Brush and Blooms is also an official North Pole Express Christmas Letter […]

Free

December Activities at the Science and Surplus Store Milwaukee

American Science & Surplus 6901 W. Oklahoma Ave., Milwaukee, WI, United States

Join us on Sundays in December from 2pm-4pm for some family activities!  Great for all ages, but younger ones will need supervision and you might want to wear old or get messy clothes. Please note: Dates and times are subject to change, and occasionally events may be cancelled. Please check the event website to confirm […]

Free
Event Series 2024 Holiday Events

CP Holiday Train in Wauwatosa

Wauwatosa Village 7735 Harwood Ave, Wauwatosa, Wisconsin

Join us to watch the Canadian Pacific Holiday Train make its stop in Wauwatosa, located right next to the Homestead Realty office. From 3-4pm, with a non-perishable food donation you can visit and take pictures with Santa.The train arrives with live music from 4:15-4:45. Please note: Dates and times are subject to change, and occasionally […]

Free
Event Series 2024 Holiday Events

Holidays on The Hop Downtown Milwaukee

Downtown Milwaukee WI

Holidays on The Hop The Hop Streetcar  There’s no better place to be during the holidays than right in the heart of the city, and this year The Hop is once again proud to contribute to the festive atmosphere in downtown Milwaukee. Our “Holidays on The Hop” initiative, featuring live music, giveaways, and festive décor […]

Free
Event Series 2024 Holiday Events

Downtown Waukesha Christmas Parade

Downtown Waukesha Waukesha, WI, United States

Location: Downtown Waukesha Date: Sunday, December 8, 2024 Time: 4 PM Known for its heartwarming charm, Waukesha’s Christmas Parade is a long-standing tradition filled with community warmth and cheer. Picture a parade route lined with glowing lights, shimmering floats, and the sounds of cheerful holiday music filling the air. It’s a truly magical experience for […]

Free

Hygge Kits at the Brown Deer Library

Brown Deer Library 5600 W Bradley, Brown Deer, WI, United States

This is our fifth year celebrating all that is hygge with a fun and cozy take-home kit! Pronounced "hoo-ga" this Danish concept cannot be translated into one word, but encompasses a feeling of cozy contentment and well-being through enjoying the simple things in life.   This kit will be available beginning Monday December 9th, while […]

Free
Event Series 2024 Holiday Events

MATC Parade Of Gingerbread Houses at the Milwaukee Public Market

Milwaukee Public Market 400 N Water St, Milwaukee

Step into a winter wonderland at the Milwaukee Public Market, where talented students from the Milwaukee Area Technical College (MATC) Bakery Program present a dazzling display of gingerbread houses! These intricate and imaginative creations, crafted with care and expertise, bring holiday cheer to life through the artistry of MATC’s culinary students. Visitors of all ages […]

Free

Weekly Early Morning Bird Walks at all Urban Ecology Center Locations

Urban Ecology Center at Riverside Park 1500 E Park Place, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, United States +2 more

Start your day with the freshness of morning air and the delightful melody of birdsong. Join fellow bird enthusiasts of all skill levels as we explore the park together, discovering the beauty and wonder of our feathered friends. This is a volunteer opportunity, so to participate you must fill out a volunteer application or login […]

Free
Event Series 2024 Holiday Events

MATC Parade Of Gingerbread Houses at the Milwaukee Public Market

Milwaukee Public Market 400 N Water St, Milwaukee

Step into a winter wonderland at the Milwaukee Public Market, where talented students from the Milwaukee Area Technical College (MATC) Bakery Program present a dazzling display of gingerbread houses! These intricate and imaginative creations, crafted with care and expertise, bring holiday cheer to life through the artistry of MATC’s culinary students. Visitors of all ages […]

Free

Storytime at Wonderland Bookshop in Shorewood

Wonderland Bookshop 4001 N Downer Avenue, Shorewood, Wisconsin

Join us for a story time! We will be reading one of our favorite stories every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday. RSVP encouraged but not required. We hope to see you there!   Please note: Dates, times, and pricing are subject to change, and occasionally events may be cancelled. Please check with the event organizer or […]

Free

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Read our Weekend Guide to find the top events for kids this weekend.