Upcoming Garden Events in Milwaukee, WI – September 2025
Milwaukee is bursting with vibrant garden-related activities this September. Whether you’re interested in local markets, lantern displays, birdwatching, or community festivals, there’s something for every garden enthusiast to enjoy. Here is a comprehensive list of the most noteworthy events happening this month:
1. Fox Point Farmers’ Market
Dates: Saturdays, September 6, 13, 20, and 27, 2025
Time: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Location: 7330 N. Santa Monica Blvd. (North Shore Congregational Church parking lot), Fox Point, WI
Details: This producer-only market showcases locally grown vegetables, fresh fruits, herbs, and cut flowers. Visitors can also enjoy local eggs, meats, honey, and baked goods. There are lively live music performances and activities for children, making it a fun outing for the whole family.
2. China Lights
Dates: September 12 – November 2, 2025
Time: 5:30 PM – 10:00 PM
Location: Boerner Botanical Gardens, 9400 Boerner Drive, Hales Corners, WI
Details: Experience a captivating display of over 40 lantern exhibits, including a stunning 20-foot butterfly dome and talking pumpkin lanterns. Nightly live entertainment performances start at 6:30 PM, 7:30 PM, and 9:00 PM, offering a magical evening for visitors of all ages.
3. Open Garden to Benefit the Wisconsin Hardy Plant Society
Date: Saturday, September 20, 2025
Time: 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Location: Rose Innovations LLC, 1234 Garden Lane, Milwaukee, WI
Details: Tour through the beautiful gardens at Rose Innovations and support the Wisconsin Hardy Plant Society. This event provides an excellent opportunity to learn about native plants and garden design while contributing to a worthwhile cause.
4. Bay View Bash
Date: Saturday, September 20, 2025
Time: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Location: Kinnickinnic Avenue, Milwaukee, WI
Details: Celebrate community, art, and music at this lively festival. The event features diverse food options, local art vendors, music performances, crafts, and community organization booths. Emphasizing sustainability, the festival actively promotes a zero-waste initiative.
5. Wine & Harvest Festival
Dates: September 20 – 21, 2025
Time: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Location: Historic Downtown Cedarburg, WI
Details: Savor an array of local homegrown produce and taste exquisite wines from Cedar Creek Winery. The festival also features a busy food court, shopping stalls, and children’s activities, creating a family-friendly event full of flavor and fun.
6. Urban Bird Hike at Lakeshore State Park
Date: Sunday, September 21, 2025
Time: 9:30 AM – 10:30 AM
Location: Lakeshore State Park, 500 N. Harbor Drive, Milwaukee, WI
Details: Join a guided bird watching hike to observe over 70 native and migrant bird species. Nature enthusiasts can enjoy an educational experience amid the scenic park setting as they learn about local avian wildlife.
7. Tuesdays in the Garden for Parents & Very Small Children
Date: Tuesday, September 30, 2025
Time: 10:30 AM – 11:30 AM
Location: Lynden Sculpture Garden, 2145 W. Brown Deer Road, Milwaukee, WI
Details: Created specifically for children aged 1-3, this hands-on art and exploration program encourages young children to engage with the outdoor environment through creative activities and sensory experiences.
These events highlight Milwaukee’s vibrant gardening and outdoor community this September. Be sure to visit the respective event websites for further details and to confirm participation. Enjoy exploring the natural beauty and community spirit of Milwaukee’s gardens!
