Are you ready for lights-out, kid-friendly fun in Milwaukee? Check out these events happening this weekend:
1. Solar Eclipse Events (UWM Planetarium)
Prepare for the Solar Eclipse
UWM Manfred Olson Planetarium, 1900 E. Kenwood Blvd #139, Milwaukee, WI 53211
Friday, April 5, 2024, 8:15-9:15 p.m.
Admission: General $6; UWM Students $5
Learn the basics of solar eclipses as we explore the intricate dance between the Sun, Moon, and Earth in anticipation of the solar eclipse occurring on April 8. Director Jean Creighton will discuss the profound impact the study of solar eclipses has had on scientific discoveries and our understanding of the universe. Pick up your free pair of eclipse viewing glasses while you’re there!
Solar Eclipse Viewing Party
UWM Union Ballroom, 2200 E. Kenwood Blvd, Milwaukee, WI 53211
Monday, April 8, 2024, 1-3 p.m.
Admission: FREE
Experience a partial solar eclipse visible from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m., with peak visibility at approximately 2:00 p.m. (weather permitting). Rain or shine, stop by the UWM Union Ballroom and Spaights Plaza to enjoy free food, music, and crafts. Weather permitting, view the eclipse through eclipse glasses and telescopes outside. Special glasses will be available for safe viewing.
Medical College Of Wisconsin Alumni Center, 8701 W. Watertown Plank Rd., Milwaukee, WI 53226
April 6-8, 2024
Admission: FREE
Explore the structure and functions of the brain through interactive exhibits, talks by neuroscientists, and educational activities for adults and children – all at this exciting science event about the brain and the mind! Plus, learn about recent advances in neuroscience research taking place right here in Milwaukee.
Grohmann Museum, 1000 N. Broadway, Milwaukee, WI 53202
Saturday, April 6, 2024, Noon-4 p.m.
Admission: FREE with museum admission (Adults $5; Students / Seniors $3; Children Under 12 FREE; MSOE Community FREE)
John and Sylvia Peine return to lead the 9th annual LEGO+ building workshop at the Grohmann Museum! Inspired by the current exhibition, Patterns of Meaning: The Art of Industry by Cory Bonnet, participants will create imaginative LEGO builds incorporating such unusual materials as wood rods, paper, thin plastic, gears, nuts and bolts, nails, string, lights, and more! Completed builds will be placed on display for all to see. All ages and skill levels welcome.
The Art of Industry LEGO Workshop >>
Baird Center, 400 W. Wisconsin Ave., Milwaukee, WI 53203
April 5-7, 2024
Admission: $25-$175 (single- and multi-day passes available)
This weekend-long extravaganza promises more than 10,000 games for attendees to enjoy, spanning the spectrum from cherished vintage titles to the latest releases. The event will feature an array of classic pinball and arcade games, every generation of console, tabletop games, live entertainment, and opportunities for meet-and-greets with notable figures from pop culture. Sunday, April 7, is Family Day, and kids 9 and under get in free on Saturday and Sunday.
Milwaukee Public Museum, 800 W. Wells St., Milwaukee, WI 53233
Saturday, April 6, 2024, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. (Member Storytime 9-10 a.m.)
Admission: Included with general admission (Adults $24; Seniors / Military / College $20; Youth (4-13) $18; Members and Children Under 4 FREE)
It’s nothing personal, but this day is all about what BUGS us. Get up close with the wonderful world of insects and other arthropods! Handle live bugs, and use microscopes to study what makes these animals so interesting and important. There’s fun for entomologists of every age!
Two live theatrical productions open this weekend:
Diary of a Wimpy Kid (First Stage)
Todd Wehr Theater at the Marcus Performing Arts, 929 N. Water St., Milwaukee, WI 53202
April 6-May 5, 2024
Admission: $16.50
Middle School, ugh. It’s the worst. Greg is determined NOT to be at the bottom of the popularity chart. He’ll leave that to his weird neighbor Fregley, or, maybe Greg’s best friend, Rowley Jefferson. But it’s not going to be Greg … no way. Will Greg’s plans lead him to sacrifice his one true friend? Can anyone avoid the dreaded Cheese Touch? Grab a hall pass, and don’t be late for an adventure familiar to anyone who survived middle school with this hilarious and heartfelt musical. Suggested for children ages 5-12.
Cinderella (Milwaukee Ballet)
Todd Wehr Theater at the Marcus Performing Arts, 929 N. Water St., Milwaukee, WI 53202
April 4-7, 2024
Admission: $44-$152
The classic journey from servant to princess is given new life in Michael Pink’s interpretation of this family-friendly tale.
Events Calendar
Discover more fun! Dive into our Events Calendar for an exciting array of daily activities perfect for kids and families, all handily sorted by location.
Your next adventure in Milwaukee is just a click away!
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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.