MILWAUKEE — Looking for the best things to do in Milwaukee and southeastern Wisconsin this weekend? From tattoo artistry and Oktoberfest celebrations to spooky concerts, comedy, food and family activities, here are Sandy Maxx’s top picks for October 8 through October 11.
Body Art
Milwaukee Tattoo Convention
Friday, October 9 through Sunday, October 11, Baird Center, Milwaukee
The Milwaukee Tattoo Convention brings tattoo artists from around the country together for live tattooing, contests, shopping and demonstrations. Visitors can meet artists, discuss custom designs and see the craft up close. The entertainment lineup includes a contortionist, a husband and wife sideshow and the danger act Captain and Maybelle, who appeared on America’s Got Talent.
Fests
Battle of the Chefs, All Starr Edition
Sunday, October 11 at 4 p.m., Prairie Springs on Park, Milwaukee
The 10th anniversary Battle of the Chefs brings back past winners and Milwaukee culinary favorites for a live cooking competition. Guests can sample creative dishes while enjoying the energy of a culinary showdown. The event combines food, entertainment and friendly competition in support of the Brewers Community Foundation.
Battle of the Beets, 8th Annual Borshch-Off for Ukraine
Sunday, October 11 from noon to 3 p.m., Turner Hall, Milwaukee
Local cooks compete to make the best vegetarian and meat borshch. Guests sample the soups and help choose the winners. The event celebrates Ukrainian food and culture while raising money to send thermal blankets and warm clothing to Ukraine.
Croatian Wine Dinner
Friday, October 9, Lupi and Iris, Milwaukee
Lupi and Iris hosts a six-course dinner paired with five Croatian wines. Triglav Wines owners Neil Simpson and Jess Gibson guide guests through the pairings and share the stories behind the selections. It is an opportunity to explore Croatian flavors through food, wine and conversation.
Milwaukee Public Market Harvest Festival
Saturday, October 10 at 11 a.m., Riverwalk Commons, Milwaukee
The free Milwaukee Public Market Harvest Festival features live music, seasonal food, drinks and family activities. Lakefront Brewery Pumpkin Ale is tapped directly from a giant pumpkin, and fresh-pressed apple cider adds another taste of fall. Guests can also enjoy pumpkin painting, scarecrow making and Market vendors.
Lake Geneva Oktoberfest
Saturday and Sunday, October 10 and 11 at 11 a.m., Downtown Lake Geneva, Lake Geneva
Downtown Lake Geneva turns German for a weekend of food, music and beer. New this year is an Oktoberfest Beer Crawl on Friday, along with little leg races for dachshunds and corgis. Visitors can enjoy traditional Oktoberfest atmosphere throughout the downtown and lakefront areas.
Oktoberfest at Village at the Falls
Friday through Sunday, October 9 through October 11, Village at the Falls, Menomonee Falls
Menomonee Falls brings the sights, sounds and flavors of a German Biergarten to the community. The family-friendly weekend includes food, beverages, German dancing, Friday afternoon dachshund races and Sunday afternoon corgi races.
Our Lady of Lourdes Oktoberfest
Friday through Sunday, October 9 through October 11, Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church, 3722 South 58th Street, Milwaukee
Our Lady of Lourdes Oktoberfest features German food, including apple strudel, beer, polka music and family activities. Saturday adds an artisan fair, a polka Mass and traditional festivities. It is a neighborhood Oktoberfest with strong Milwaukee community roots.
Spooky Season
Ghostbusters in Concert
Friday, October 9, Uihlein Hall, Marcus Performing Arts Center, Milwaukee
Watch the 1984 classic Ghostbusters on a large screen while a live orchestra performs Elmer Bernstein’s memorable score in sync with the film. It is part movie screening, part concert and a perfect Halloween-season experience.
Creepy Cosmos
Friday, October 9, UWM Manfred Olson Planetarium, Milwaukee
Explore the creepiest corners of space through Halloween-themed astronomy. Haunting cosmic imagery and stargazing stories turn science into a spooky experience, and costumes are encouraged.
Spirits and Spirits
Friday, October 9, Grey House Studio, Wauwatosa
This theatrical cocktail experience combines five handcrafted drinks with five dark tales. The mysterious Collector guides guests through myths, legends and ghost stories. It is a 21-and-over evening blending immersive theater, comedy and cocktails.
Betty BOO’s Spooktacular
Saturday, October 10 at 9 a.m., Betty Brinn Children’s Museum, Milwaukee
Betty BOO’s Spooktacular offers fright-free Halloween fun designed especially for children and families. Activities include nocturnal animal education, creative projects and seasonal storytelling. It is a way for children to enjoy Halloween without the intense scares of a traditional haunted attraction.
Treasure of the MUMmies
Sunday, October 11, Mitchell Park Domes, Milwaukee
The Mitchell Park Domes’ Show Dome becomes an Egyptian-inspired horticultural display. Chrysanthemums, marigolds, papyrus and themed sculptures create an immersive autumn landscape. The experience combines history, horticulture and imaginative design inside one of Milwaukee’s most recognizable landmarks.
Comics
Milwaukee Comic Con
Saturday, October 10 at 10 a.m., Wisconsin State Fair Park, West Allis
Comic fans can meet creators, browse vendors and celebrate pop culture. Expect costumes, collectibles, fandom merchandise and opportunities to connect with other fans. It is a full-day indoor experience for comic book, superhero, science-fiction and fantasy enthusiasts.
Comedy
Milwaukee Comedy Festival
Friday through Sunday, October 9 through October 11, The Laughing Tap and additional venues, Milwaukee
The Milwaukee Comedy Festival features rising comedians, local favorites and performers from around the country. More than 30 comedians perform across several Milwaukee venues. Audiences can choose from stand-up, themed shows and late-night comedy experiences.
Exploring
Waukesha Unlocked
Saturday and Sunday, October 10 and 11, multiple locations, Waukesha
More than 50 businesses, organizations, churches and city buildings open their doors during Waukesha Unlocked. Visitors can explore behind-the-scenes spaces that are not usually open to the public. Highlights include historic sites, public art, walking tours and special activities.
Keep up with culture and creativity in Wisconsin and around the world with “What’s On Tap with Sandy Maxx” weekdays at 6 p.m. on WTMJ.
