News Summary
Milwaukee is set to host a variety of events this October, including the 10th Annual Islamic Film Festival, community celebrations, art festivals, and theatrical performances. Highlights include the Milwaukee Oktoberfest, a pumpkin carving event, and the touring Broadway production of ‘Les Misérables’. With opportunities for cultural engagement and community spirit, October promises to be a vibrant month for residents and visitors alike.
Milwaukee is poised to offer a wealth of exciting events this October, ranging from art festivals and theatrical performances to community celebrations and seasonal fun. Notably, the month kicks off with the 10th Annual Islamic Film Festival from October 2-5 at the Oriental Theatre, showcasing screenings alongside discussions with filmmakers. This festival is organized by the Muslim Women’s Coalition and is aimed at fostering cultural understanding through cinema.
Throughout the month, Skylight Music Theatre will present a poignant rendition of the classic musical about a Jewish milkman navigating life in early-20th-century Russia, with performances running from October 3-26. This production includes a theme of violins played during the Holocaust, adding depth and historical significance to the narrative.
Simultaneously, from October 3-5, the Unity Awards at Henry Maier Festival Park will honor individuals and organizations dedicated to improving the Milwaukee community. The weekend will also feature the Milwaukee Oktoberfest, known for its lively atmosphere complete with bier, a cornhole tournament, a wiener dog pageant, and a brat-eating contest.
Additional events on October 4 include a festival at the Grohmann Museum, where craftspeople will showcase traditional trades, and the annual self-guided Artist Studio Tour, allowing residents to visit local artists’ workspaces throughout the city from Oak Creek to Shorewood. The Lakefront Marathon will take place in Downtown Milwaukee on October 4-5, offering full and half-marathons as well as a 5K race.
On October 5, Brady Street will host a pet costume parade and contest, inviting pet owners to participate in a whimsical celebration.
As the month progresses, from October 8-12, the Milwaukee Opera Theatre will present a comedic operetta about forbidden love, set aboard a Royal Navy ship, at UW-Milwaukee Mainstage Theater. Also, on October 9, Pabst Theater will celebrate the 20th annual Milwaukee Comedy Festival, showcasing both national and local comedians in an evening of entertainment.
From October 11 to November 2, First Stage will bring to life a musical adaptation of the beloved “Goosebumps” children’s series at Marcus Performing Arts Center. Additionally, on October 11-12, Holy Hill Art Farm will host a market featuring local farmers, artists, vendors, and live music, celebrating community creativity and collaboration.
Mid-month festivities continue with a pumpkin carving event at Humboldt Park from October 15-18, featuring illuminated pumpkins and snacks in the themed “Fear Garden.” Families can enjoy Halloween-themed activities at the Milwaukee County Zoo, which will offer events on October 17-19 and 24-26.
Art enthusiasts can look forward to Mark Mulhern’s exhibit opening at Tory Folliard Gallery on October 17, coinciding with Gallery Night & Day, set to run until November 29. Concertgoers will enjoy performances from the Femmes on October 18-19 at Riverside Theater, featuring their classic albums.
On October 24, MAM After Dark at the Milwaukee Art Museum will invite guests to a Halloween-themed art party. The month wraps up with a 5K run/walk through Forest Home Cemetery on October 25, kicking off local Day of the Dead celebrations with various vendors and community activities.
Finally, the touring Broadway production of “Les Misérables” will perform at Marcus Performing Arts Center from October 28 to November 2. No weekend will be dull as Marquette Theatre presents the world premiere of “In the Cities of Refuge” and Oktoberfest continues at Cathedral Square Park, featuring bratwurst, beer, and live entertainment.
As Milwaukee gears up for these dynamic events, residents and visitors alike have numerous opportunities to engage with the arts, celebrate community spirit, and enjoy the vibrant local culture throughout October.
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Additional Resources
- Milwaukee Magazine: 18 Things to Do in Milwaukee This October
- Jsonline: 20 Free Fun Things to Do in and Around Milwaukee in Fall 2023
- Jsonline: 17 Things to Do this Fall in Wisconsin
- Milwaukee Magazine: 9 Things to Do in Milwaukee This Weekend (Oct 4-6)
- Milwaukee Magazine: 18 Things to Do in Milwaukee This October
- Wikipedia: Milwaukee
- Google Search: Milwaukee events October 2023
- Google Scholar: Milwaukee culture events
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Milwaukee
- Google News: Milwaukee October 2023 events
Author: STAFF HERE MILWAUKEE WRITER
MILWAUKEE STAFF WRITER The MILWAUKEE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMilwaukee.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Milwaukee, Milwaukee County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Summerfest, Milwaukee Film Festival, and the Milwaukee Boat Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce and Visit Milwaukee, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and brewing that power the local economy such as Harley-Davidson and MillerCoors. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Wisconsin's dynamic landscape.
