Families can start the year with a breath of fresh air, incredible sights, and family-friendly fun at the 38th Annual Cool Fool Kite & Snow Carving Festival.
This beloved Milwaukee tradition takes place on New Year’s Day, 2025 at Veterans Park (1300 N Lincoln Memorial Drive) on the beautiful shores of Lake Michigan, running from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
What to Expect
Here’s a glimpse of the free activities waiting for kids and families:
- Spectacular Kite Show: Watch Jake “The Kite Guy” and his team soar their larger-than-life kites—some stretching over 100 feet long—against the winter sky. Bring your own kite to join the fun or purchase one onsite at a 30% discount.
- Live Ice Sculpting: Marvel at the artistry of The Quiet Snow and Ice Carver, a professional ice carving group and National Snow and Ice Carving Champions. Fresh off their appearance on Disney Plus, they’ll carve jaw-dropping designs right before your eyes.
- Free Treats: Warm up with complimentary hot chocolate, coffee, and snacks, courtesy of Gift of Wings (while supplies last). Additional food and drink options will also be available for purchase.
- Polar Plunges: If you’re feeling adventurous, take part in the exhilarating Polar Plunge happening nearby at Bradford Beach at noon. It fun to watch even if you aren’t participating!
This event is hosted by The Kite Society of Wisconsin/Illinois and Gift of Wings, with a mission to bring joy and wonder to Milwaukee’s families.
Free and Easy Access
Good news: admission and parking are completely free, making this event accessible to everyone. Plus, parking is plentiful, so you won’t need to stress about finding a spot.
Tips for Enjoying the Festival
- Dress in layers to stay cozy while enjoying the outdoor activities.
- Arrive early to secure your free cocoa and snacks.
- Bring a camera to capture the mesmerizing kites and stunning ice sculptures.
More Winter Fun
If you’re looking for even more ways to make the most of winter in Milwaukee, check out our guide to 100 Fun Things to Do in Winter.
Calie Herbst, Editor-in-Chief of Milwaukee With Kids, has spent over a decade combining her experiences as a parent of three to create a hub for Milwaukee’s family adventures.
Her decade-long teaching career in Milwaukee Public Schools and academic background, including a Master’s in Teaching from Marquette University and dual B.A.s in Sociology and Spanish from the University of Wisconsin – Madison, fuel her passion for inclusive and engaging family content.
Calie is also a recognized voice in local media, contributing to WISN Channel 12 News, WTMJ Wisconsin Morning News, Fox 6’s Real Milwaukee, and B93.3.
Discover more about Calie’s journey and editorial approach on her About Page and Editorial Policy Page.
