Upcoming events
MKE Music Night CVI
MKE Music Night returns for the Beatles vs Beegees edition!
Taxmen MKE: "The Taxmen" are a nationally touring band based out of Milwaukee, Wisconsin. In 2024 they released their debut album, "Dead Man's Float", comprised of 14 original songs. In the past year, The Taxmen have performed in New York City to Chicago to Florida to Minneapolis, and everywhere in between! This spring, they won 1st place in Marquette University radio's battle of the bands. Will (Guitar), Anthony (Bass), Jeff (Guitar), and Will (Drums) are keeping the sound of rock bands alive and are introducing the music of the Beatles to a new generation. The Taxmen's vocal harmonies and musicianship bring a youthful energy that is sure to ignite the room and bring any party to life! (Singing and dancing is highly encouraged)...
Night Fever MKE: Night Fever MKE is Milwaukee’s signature Bee Gees tribute, built on tight harmonies, big grooves, and the timeless energy of disco. We dig deep into the Bee Gees catalog — from the Saturday Night Fever hits to their soul, pop, and R&B-leaning cuts — and bring it all to life with a full live band. Our shows are upbeat, dance-forward, and meant to feel like a moving, glowing party. Whether it’s a club stage or a big dance floor, we aim to recreate that classic Bee Gees feel while adding our own Milwaukee flavor. If it gets people singing and moving, we’re doing it right.
Scorpio Season Bash 3: The Finale
Come celebrate Robb Breaks 50th on the Harborfront with some of the biggest dj's in hip hop! FREE AND OPEN TO THE PUBLIC!
FEATURING: Trackstar, Greg Nice, Dj Rob Ski, Robb Breakz, And the Treat Yosef Crew (Nu-Stylez, Bizzon, SwadeTrackz)
Best known for his prolific mixtape & radio work, and as the tour DJ for Killer Mike and Run the Jewels, Trackstar the DJ has been fortunate to travel the world playing music he loves, working and performing with many of the greatest artists in hip hop since his start behind the turntables on college radio in St Louis in 1999.
Trackstar built a reputation for creativity and consistency by releasing nearly two hundred mixes including collaborations with Royce da 5’9, Big Boi, Lupe Fiasco and other legends. His work with the elite online tastemaking team The Smoking Section and a constant presence on radio (currently, SiriusXM’s Shade45, every Friday night since 2017) helped him develop a significant following. Track continues to be on the road, playing for crowds across the globe performing including Bottlerock, Dusk, Adult Swim Festival, Boiler Room and more.
Greg Nice broke into the music scene as a beat boxer for Hip Hop Legend T-La Rock. While Smooth B honed his skills at local talent shows, blending lyrics with harmonies. Nice & Smooth came together thru an introduction by a mutual friend in 1985. They put out their first single independently in1986 before they signed to Sleeping Bags Record and later DEF JAM. Their first indie single featured "Skill Trade" and "Dope on a Rope". The duo released four albums from the late 1980s to the mid 1990s. Their first collaborate appearance was on the song, "Pimpin Ain't Easy" by Big Daddy Kane on his album, It's a Big Daddy Thing in 1989.The group notably collaborated with New Kids On The Block and went on to smash stages from Madison Square Garden to the Meadowlands Arena. In 1991 the group was featured on 3rd Base's Gold Album Derelicts of Dialect on the song "Microphone Techniques". Mary J Blige featured Greg Nice on her first platinum single "You Remind Me" in 1991. Smooth B wrote rhymes for Bobby Brown that appeared on his debut album King of Stage and second album Don't Be Cruel. Greg Nice was also featured on C+C Music Factory's platinum selling single "Do you wanna get funky", furthering the group reach in the pop arena.
Beaujolais Nouveau 2026
29th Annual Beaujolais Nouveau
Celebrate the 2026 harvest at our most popular party of the year!
Tickets $10 for AF members*, $15 for non-members
Featuring:
Festive music
Delicious food
Dancing
A cash bar, featuring this year's Beaujolais Nouveau wine
The much-loved wine pull
La Gozadera Social at the Cooperage with DJ Rick
DJ Rick returns to the Cooperage as the original Wherehouse DJ, on Friday, November 20.
La Gozadera Social at the Cooperage is our big monthly: a 9:00 p.m. class with Natalia Beans, a full night of Latin social dancing, and a performance by Pasion Colectiva at 11:00 p.m., with more performers tba. Follow us on IG @lagozaderasocialmke for performer announcements, and other events.
The night
9:00 p.m. Class with Natalia Beans
11:00 p.m. Pasion Colectiva, with more performers to come
1:45 a.m. Last dance
Tickets
Buy online in advance, or pay $20 cash only at the door.
On the floor
Free cup covers and earplugs, security on the floor, and our code of conduct. These come standard every night, not as an extra.
Ryan Necci and the Buffalo Gospel with Ladybird
The Buffalo Gospel make their long awaited return to the Harborfront with Ladybird!
At the heart of great music is a story, and for that matter, a storyteller. The story of Ryan Necci & The Buffalo Gospel begins with Ryan's introduction to the songwriting greats through his family's record collection. Growing up in a small, lower-middle-class farm town in Wisconsin, the sounds of classic country music intertwined with the songwriting of John Prine, Emmylou Harris, and Townes Van Zandt formed the backdrop of his childhood. The themes of love, loss, and unfulfilled dreams seeped into his soul, shaping his distinctive Country/Americana style as a songwriter.
Ryan's debut album, We Can Be Horses, released in 2013, garnered praise for its "musically arresting" and "minimalist and masterful" qualities. The band's follow-up, On the First Bell, continued to earn acclaim, solidifying their place in the genre. In 2021, Ryan signed a recording and publishing deal with BMG Music in Nashville, TN, marking a significant step in his career as an artist and writer.
Ryan has since written with and for notable artists like Stephen Wilson Jr., Lori McKenna, Jim Lauderdale and Flatland Cavalry, bringing his storytelling craft to wider audiences. Recently, he signed a new global publishing deal with Warner Chappell Music, further solidifying his presence in the songwriting community and expanding his reach as a writer.
Friendsgiving with Chicken Wire Empire and Valley Fox and more!
Chicken Wire Empire brings their legendary Thanksgiving Eve show back to The Cooperage!! FRIENDSGIVING 2026 IS HERE YALL!
Formed in Wisconsin, Chicken Wire Empire has emerged as a pioneering force in the Upper Midwest contemporary bluegrass scene. Fusing traditional roots with innovative genre-blending elements, the band has captivated audiences worldwide with their unique musicality and electrifying performances.
The band has been recognized worldwide for their performances and recorded works, with Americana UK calling their latest album “a variety which transcends genre and rewards careful listening.” Capturing the ever-evolving sights and sounds of the road through the lens of their Midwestern roots, the band’s catalog of songs is ever-growing and CWE continues to be acknowledged for their pensive attention to detail in writing and crafting deeply engaging songs.
Chicken Wire Empire has partnered with dozens of artists from all corners of the bluegrass genre, from Sam Bush and Peter Rowan to Vince Herman and Keller Williams. Their forthcoming album features guest appearances from Grammy-winning artists Jerry Douglas and Kyle Tuttle. The long list of collaborators has lent a lifetime of taste and knowledge to CWE’s musical journey while the band has grown into its identifiably authentic yet original sound.
SEASIDE ZOO RETURNS!
One of Wisconsin finest tributes to the Grateful Dead, Seaside Zoo returns to the Harborfront!
Seaside Zoo is a Madison-based Grateful Dead tribute band formed in 2019. Composed of eight members, Seaside Zoo covers everything from the 60’s Pigpen songs to the late 80’s ballads. This group is sure to keep even the pickiest of Dead Heads dancing all night.
Radio Radio Krampus Dance Party with DJ Paul H
A Krampus party for the ages!
"Kick off your weekend of Krampus celebrations with Radio Radio and DJ Paul H : New Wave vs Dark Wave Holiday Dance Party!
Your annual holiday dance party with Milwaukee's original New Wave tribute, featuring the Dark Wave edge of DJ Paul H"
Steez Creepfunk Christmas Returns!
Madison megajammers Steez return to the Harborfront for their annual Milwaukee Christmas bash!
The Madison-based five piece, STEEZ, consisting of Matt Williams (keyboards/synthesizers/talk box), Steve Neary (guitar and vocals), Alex Roberts (drums), Chris Sell (bass), and Andrzej Benkowski (saxophone, keyboards, vocals) is—in the simplest terms and the most convenient definitions —a funk band, a jamband, a fusion band, a disco-fanged multi-beast.
Churning out their self-described Creepfunk, a high energy, danceable variety of funk uniquely laced with electronic and improvisational sensibilities, STEEZ has garnered a loyal following throughout the Midwest performing at music festivals and to capacity crowds at rapidly growing venues. STEEZ repeatedly receives acclaim for their live performances, which typically include a seamless weaving of thoughtfully composed originals and crowd pleasing covers spanning from Madonna to clever obscurities like Genialistid (Estonia).
They are joined by opener and intermission master lukewarm (WiscoJazz.)
La Gozadera Social at the Cooperage with DJ Jo-Z
DJ Jo-Z is on the decks Saturday, December 12, for La Gozadera Social at the Cooperage.
The night opens with a 9:00 p.m. class with Natalia Beans, then a full night of Latin social dancing, with performances at 11:00 p.m.
The night
9:00 p.m. Class with Natalia Beans
11:00 p.m. Performances
1:45 a.m. Last dance
Performers are announced on Instagram first. Follow us at @lagozaderasocialmke for the lineup.
Tickets
Buy online in advance, or pay $20 cash only at the door.
On the floor
Free cup covers and earplugs, security on the floor, and our code of conduct. These come standard every night, not as an extra.
MONDO LUCHA RETURNS!
THE WORLD FAMOUS MONDO LUCHA WRESTLING RETURNS TO THE HARBORFRONT!
MONDO LUCHA! returns to the Cooperage on Friday, January 22 for another night of high flying wrestling action. Enjoy all the thrills and spills as MONDO LUCHA! brings their unique brand of sports entertainment back to Milwaukee!
6th Annual Bluegrass Winter Heater
The Winter Heater returns to the Harborfront January 23rd!
HOT. DIRTY. BLUE. GRASS.
Established in late 2018, The MilBillies immediately hit the ground running, bringing their unique synthesis of traditional and progressive bluegrass to venues and festivals throughout the upper midwest and beyond.
The MilBillies project a veritable wall of sound, starting with an intentional focus on melodic lyricism in songwriting and finishing with an unparalleled, action-packed live performance. It truly is, HOT. Dirty. Blue. Grass.
------
Pert Near Sandstone emerged twenty years ago from the Minnesota acoustic music scene. With infectious energy and collaborative spirit, they have established themselves as standard-bearers for the vitality of the Midwestern roots music scene and alongside Minnesota brethren Trampled By Turtles and Charlie Parr. They have toured extensively and performed onstage with the likes of Sam Bush and Jerry Douglas, earning dates along the way with everyone from Yonder Mountain String Band to Steve Martin. NPR's Mountain Stage praised the band for putting a "Midwestern stamp on Appalachian [sounds]," while A Prairie Home Companion described Pert Near Sandstone as “a force on the Minnesota roots music scene and beyond,” and 89.3 The Current praised their live performances as "a frenzied string shredding spree that takes audiences under its spell."
Lydia Loveless live at the Harborfront!
Lydia Loveless makes her Harborfront debut at the Cooperage!
Lydia Loveless is an acclaimed singer and songwriter from Columbus, OH who has earned high praise from Pitchfork, NPR Music, Rolling Stone, Bandcamp Daily, Brooklyn Vegan, Paste, American Songwriter, No Depression, and more.
Her new single, Accolades, is available now at https://lydialoveless.lnk.to/accoladesas is the video - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nJeuSRg1LEs.
Lydia's upcoming EP, also entitled Accolades, will be released October 30, 2026 on Bloodshot Records.
COOP HALLOWEEN BASH featuring TEAR DUNGEON & MORE!!
The Cooperage is throwing a Halloween Party and we brought our friends Tear Dungeon from Austin, TX to help us throw down!
WE'RE THROWING A HALLOWEEN PARTY AND EVERYBODY IS INVITED! Horror movies, and fire eaters, and apple bobbing, and poison punches and heavy music... and toppin it all off, TEAR DUNGEON. More details to come, get your tickets now!!!
EARLY BIRD TICKETS: $10
GA: $15
DOORS: $20
FLAMINGOSIS: Bright Moments 10 Year Anniversary
Flamingosis comes to the Harborfront on Halloween to celebrate 10 years of Bright Moments! Grab your costume or your hottest attire and make your way to the hottest party in town on the most festive weekend of the year!
Flamingosis makes the soundtrack to being your best self. Under the spell of Aaron Velasquez, the New Jersey-raised and Brooklyn-based artist and producer, handcrafted electronic beats meet live instrumentation spiked with funk in the center of the dancefloor (right underneath the disco ball). The ensuing overflow of energy might just inspire you to get up and move, fall in love, or even change your life. Extending a creative arc without comparison, he strikes a deep emotional chord on his 2024 full-length album, Better Will Come.
“Everyone wants to get better in some way,” he states. “The album highlights my own personal experience of growing, and you can potentially relate your story to what I went through. I learned a lot of hard lessons, but I made a conscious effort to grow in every way—not just musically, but physically, mentally, and spiritually. I did a lot of inner work, and I channeled these experiences into the music. If you pursue self-improvement, life improves around you too.”
Artistically, he has continued to progress at an impressive pace. Piling up over 100 million streams and counting, he has dropped one fan favorite project after another, including Pleasure Palette [2015], Kahunastyle [2016], Bright Moments [2016], Daymaker [2021] and collaborative album Bliss Station [2023]. Of the latter, ThisSongIsSick raved, “This is the perfect album to rinse outside by the pool, at the park, in your backyard, or wherever you have a space to move around,” and EARMILKchristened it “an electronic journey through time and space.” Along the way, he teamed up with everyone from Big Gigantic, GRiZ and Tokimonsta to Matoma for collaborations. Simultaneously, he notably shined at festivals, including Austin City Limits, Electric Forest, Okeechobee, Holy Ship!, Voodoo Music + Arts, and more.
Venus Presents: Sapphic Halloween Rave
🩸 ARE YOU READY FOR AN ALLURING & HAUNTED NIGHT AT THE SAPPHIC RAVE? 🩸
MUSIC BY @djhhope @verrriperi @myagoetsch_ @r3algrl
Venus Presents: Sapphic Halloween Rave
🗓️: Thursday, October 29th, 2026
⏰: Doors are at 8!, get here early to skip the line! party starts right away, you won’t want to miss a second of this occult 🧛🏻♀️
📍: The Cooperage @cooperagemke (822 S Water St)
🎟️: $15 presale, $20 day of
👩❤️💋👩: Hosted by @thevenussocialclub3 @myagoetsch_
🍸: 21+
Pole dancing by @houseofonyxx_mke + gogo dancers
Theme is Halloween costumes! Wear your best costume and enter in our contest to win $150! Contest starts at 11pm. Sign up at event
tickets available in our bio
see you on the dance floor 😘
BREWERS WATCH PARTY
Let’s go! We will be showing all World Series games on the patio Jumbotron, inside Boone, and sometimes the Coop!
⚾️ Free to attend!
⚾️21+ unless with your adult
⚾️ Sound on
⚾️ Drink and food specials
⚾️ Other fun stuff incoming!
Swipe for Jumbotron and a throw back to when the Bucks won the Championship 🎉.
#brewerswatchparty #brewcrew #discovermilwaukee#worldseries #brewersbaseball
Mobilize the Poets Presents: AFTER THE WAR: 1919
AFTER THE WAR: 1919 A multimedia "rock and roll history show" about one of the most troubling peacetime years in the history of the United States. The post-war, post-pandemic country is reckoning with the fundamental rights of its citizens.
Americans have just fought a war “to make the world safe for democracy” and now are fighting to preserve that very democracy at home. Strikes, race riots, women’s suffrage, mass deportations, the Red Scare, and Prohibition dominate the headlines and people’s lives.This show reflects on the lives of everyday people who lived during this extraordinary time, the meaning of peace, and Wisconsin’s role in it all.
"Packed with rollicking incisive poetic songs, stunning visuals, and authentic voices conjuring 1919, a momentous year with striking parallels to the present. A Wisco-centric rival of Brecht & Weill's visionary fusion of music, art, political history, and stagecraft.”
Support provided by:
Wisconsin Historical Society
Wisconsin Veterans Museum
Milwaukee Chamber Theatre
Milwaukee Opera Theatre
Vanguard Milwaukee
Antishadows Theatrical Design
Hinckley Productions
Brainstormer Studios
ABOUT MOBILIZE THE POETS
Mobilize the Poets is a cross-discipline troupe of musicians, historians, and theatre artists dedicated to honoring the lives of everyday people who have lived through extraordinary times. We bring history and music together in powerful multimedia productions. We call them “rock and roll history shows.”
Re: MANDATORY WORK THING!
Mark your calendar for an extra special pop-up class filled with goodies and giveaways.
You’ll want to show up early, because the first ten to arrive will receive a Lululemon gift bag and a complimentary drink from Sora Matcha. Can’t make it until closer to noon? No problem! They’ll be selling delicious drinks for the whole event.
A 50 minute full-body Pilates sculpt class lead by Forme Studio’s Allie Kruse starts at noon- don’t forget your mat!
Post class, we will draw the GRAND PRIZE winner! One lucky attendee will win one month unlimited classes at Forme Studio and a $50 Lululemon gift card! Must purchase on Eventbrite to win.
So, make sure you’ve got the date saved: 10/19, 12 PM at The Cooperage. It’s pretty important that you’re there - I mean, it’s A Work Thing, after all. xoxo
New Wave Fest 2026
New Wave Fest is back on the Harborfront in 2026 baby!
New Wave Fest 2026 returns with more fun and more excitement than ever! Join the largest new wave dance party in the area.10pm The First Wave - Your favorite new wave hits
9pm Xposed 4Heads - Original new wave fun
8pm Special Guest to be Announced
7pm Doors Open
Xposed 4Heads is a legendary fun high energy dance party band led by Mark G.E. with Kelp Chofs, Greg Barta, and Andy Stilin and Star Girls Linda Strain and Theresa Ala Mode!
Reunion Remix Wedding Expo
Mark your calendar! We're excited to be featured as Reunion Remix takes over The Cooperage for a live music showcase & mini wedding expo on Thursday, October 15 from 6:30-9:00 PM.
Free admission, live music, food, drinks, and a great lineup of local vendors. We'd love to see you there!
FLANNEL FEST 2026
Flannel Fest never left but now it's back from noon-10pm on Saturday, October 10th on the Harborfront! Located on the grounds of Boone & Crockett/Cooperage at 818 S Water St, The festival, now in it's ninth iteration, will bring Nashville based Americana star Langhorne Slim to headline the Main Stage alongside Buffalo Nichols on the Folk stage and a plethora of other local and national acts.
In addition to live performances, attendees can enjoy food and beverage vendors, art installations, local makers, family activities, the Kid Boogie Down, Division BMX Stunt shows and much, much more. As always a portion of proceed will also go to benefit Courage House Mke initiatives and sustainability efforts.
Parking is extremely limited so we encourage folks to car pool, uber, scooter, walk or what have you! Flannel Fest is FREE AND OPEN TO ALL AGES, so grab your plaid, grab a friend or the family and come out to the Harbor for a day of good times and memories!
Redd's Lineup: Line Dancing Spectacular
Redd's Lineup brings their Line Dancing fun to the Harborfront!
Doors 5:30pm
Beginner Class (1 hour) ($10extra) 6:00-7:00
Dancing 7pm - 10pm
Free Lesson around 8PM (15 minutes)
Roast Of Milwaukee
Milwaukee Record’s long-running “Roast Of Milwaukee” is back! Like previous years, the event—which is done in association with the Milwaukee Comedy Festival as a kickoff show for the fest—will feature a stacked cast of local comedians gently (or, in some cases, viciously) making fun of our fair city. This year’s Roast Of Milwaukee will take place at The Cooperage on Monday, October 5. Tickets are on sale NOW.
A wide range of locally-sourced roasters will be taking swipes at the city, including AJ Grill, Dana Ehrmann, Darrell Cochran, Diego Avila, Sam Barone, Alecia Altstaetter, Evan Pack. Comedian and sports radio personality Ramie Makhlouf will serve as the event’s emcee. And the laughs won’t just be at the expense of Milwaukee. A portion of the show’s proceeds will be donated to Milwaukee Women’s Center. Event sponsor Lakefront Brewery will have beverages on special all night long.
Pilates Sculpt in The Cooperage!
Join the Forme team for a 50 minute pilates sculpt class on Monday afternoons at the Cooperage.
This full-body class will challenge you and push you to utilize small muscles through balances, high energy sets, and micro movements. Class is suitable for all levels, but please inform instructor of any injuries or limitations prior to class. Sculpt is done barefoot or in socks.
Please bring a mat and water along with you.
$10 Presale (+ tax and fees)
OR you may also pay $15 cash at the door!
Doors Open 11:45AM. Class Begins 12PM
Americana Matinee: Amy LaVere & Will Sexton Live with very special guests!
Amy LaVere and husband Will Sexton have been music collaborators and touring companions for 11 years. The quality of their craft, the miles traveled and their original catalog is ever growing.
LaVere’s songwriting is pointed and clever with lyrics that are hard to shake. Once you hear her captivating voice, it will be forever instantly recognizable.
Over the past three decades, Will Sexton has grown into a skilled musical polymath: an esteemed writer, producer, session player and solo artist with a string of acclaimed LPs to his credit. Sexton’s seasoned guitar playing and velvet vocals are a superb fit to LaVere’s distinctive talent and smooth, percussive upright bass prowess. Amy and Will are among the finest musical craftsmen and performers in the Americana genre. Their spellbinding show is incomparable, something you must see for yourself.
Marielle Allschwang and the Visitations/ Exit Statements/ Body Futures
Get ready for a night of uncompromising local music. Marielle Allschwang and the Visitations, EXITSTATEMENTS, and Body Futures take over The Cooperage in Milwaukee on Saturday, September 27 for an evening of creative melody, atmospheric tension, and unforgettable performances. Doors open at 6:00 PM, with music starting at 7:00 PM. Join us at The Cooperage, 822 S. Water St., Milwaukee, WI. Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door. Don’t miss one of Milwaukee’s most powerful local lineups this year!
Big Shrimp with Modern Joey
Big Shrimp is coming all the way from Bridgeport, CT to make their Harborfront debut at The Cooperage!
Big Shrimp is a young high-octane progressive improvised rock quartet formed in 2024in Bridgeport, Connecticut, blending danceable funk, exploratory rock, and fearless improvisation into a sound that’s as intricate as it is infectious. Built on diverse, catchable songwriting delivered by all four members featuring Jared Sage Cowen (Guitar/Vocals), Max Perrotti (Bass/Vocals, Daniel Cohen (Keys/Vocals), Henry Thomas (Drums/Vocals), Big Shrimp’s material has quickly earned national attention, including placement on Spotify’s Modern Jam Band editorial playlist.
Known for their adventurous live shows, the band balances tightly crafted originals with fresh, unexpected covers all filtered through their playful, high-energy lens. These performances have helped cultivate a fiercely loyal fanbase known as The Prawn Stars, whose growing presence in rooms across the country has fueled the band’s rapid rise. That momentum landed Big Shrimp on Grateful Web’s “Top 12 Upcoming Jam Bands to Watch in 2026,” further cementing their status as a breakout act.
R&B LIVE MKE - 17 Year Anniversary Show!
R&B LIVE MKE is celebrating 17 years of providing a platform for the city's most talented musicians and vocalists.
WE ARE CELEBRATING 17 YEARS OF AMAZING MUSICIANS AND VOCALISTS ROCKIN OUR STAGE!!
SUNDAY, SEPT. 20TH
LIMITED TICKETS AVAILABLE AT THE DOOR. DOORS OPEN 6PM.
hosted by Lena Cole & DJ Mister Martin
R&B LIVE Band: D Will (guitar), Eric Lock (keys), Mike Evans (percussion), Dave James (bass), Olen Franklin (drums)
Power Line Up: JOSH JONES, ELLE RENEE, JONAS JONES, TJ JEANES, TERRY PUGH, CHELSEA STINGLEY, BRIAN CRAWFORD, KISHI JOHNSON, MICAH EMRICH , LILY E'LON, JMIKA DESHAZER, SCALEZ.......more TBA!
Follow us on all social media platforms:
R&B LIVE Milwaukee Band (Facebook)
rblivemke (Instagram)
La Gozadera at The Cooperage
La Gozadera Social MKE is a Milwaukee-based Latinx dance social rooted in salsa, community, and cultural connection. Created to fill a gap in consistent, high-quality Latinx social dancing in the city, the event was founded by local dancers and organizers passionate about building an inclusive, welcoming space centered on Afro-Caribbean rhythms, social salsa, bachata, and community joy. What began as an intimate gathering for dancers seeking strong music selection, intentional branding, and a safe dance floor is growing into one of Milwaukee’s recognized salsa socials. Organized by a team of culturally fluent creatives and experienced dancers, La Gozadera Social MKE blends DJ-driven Latinx music, themed nights, performance showcases, and thoughtful visual identity to create a vibrant social dance experience. The mission remains clear: cultivate connection, celebrate Latinx culture, and provide Milwaukee with a consistent, elevated salsa social where beginners and seasoned dancers alike feel seen, respected, and energized.
Redd's Lineup: Line Dancing Spectacular
7:45pm-Midnight
Doors 6pm
Beginner Class (1 hour) ($10) 6:30-7:30
Free Lesson around 8:15 (15 minutes)
*Cap at 150 dancers
Jo Jo Hermann of Widespread Panic!
JoJo Hermann is an American musician best known as the longtime keyboardist for the Southern rock jam band Widespread Panic. Born in New York City in 1962, he grew up with a passion for blues and New Orleans-style piano, influenced by artists like Professor Longhair and Dr. John. After studying at college in Mississippi and immersing himself in the local music scene, Hermann joined Widespread Panic in 1992, adding his signature blend of boogie-woogie piano and organ to the band's improvisational sound. His dynamic performances and deep love of roots music have made him a fan favorite and a vital part of the band's enduring success.
In addition to his keyboard work, JoJo Hermann has contributed vocals on several notable Widespread Panic songs, showcasing his distinctive style. Some of his standout performances include fan-favorites like "Ain't Life Grand," "Blackout Blues," and "One Arm Steve," all of which highlight his soulful voice and bluesy piano flair. Beyond his work with Widespread Panic, Hermann has pursued other musical projects, including his solo work and collaborations with various bands. He formed the band Missing Cats with singer-songwriter Sherman Ewing, focusing on a more stripped-down, folk-rock sound. He has also played with JoJo and His Mojo Mardi Gras Band, which reflects his deep love for New Orleans funk and R&B, bringing a celebratory, improvisational feel to his performances. Hermann’s diverse musical influences and his collaborations have solidified his reputation as a versatile and passionate musician.
MKE Music Night XCIV: Latin Night
Friday, September 4th MKE Music Night RETURNS to THE COOPERAGE for a latin BANGERANG For the first time in three years the LATIN NIGHT show series returns to the cooperage featuring some of our cities up and coming latin bands...
MKE Music Night is a local art and music showcase which has been throwing live music events for 6 years at various venues. (9/4/26) will mark the 104th MKE Music Night and we will be filling the venue with local art vendors and stacking the lineup with some of the KILLER talent our rockin' city has to offer. Check out the lineup below
6:30pm Doors Open
---------------------
7-7:30pm ~ Tlalok
7:40-8:40pm ~ Pulpa de Guayaba
9-10:15pm ~ Los Mitoteros
10:30-11:45pm ~ Calakas Sonoras
The Cooperage (822 S. Water st.)
Doors at 7pm · Music at 7:30pm
Friday, September 4th
Coop 60 hr Film Festival
We at the Coop 60 comittee are dedicated film makers and film lovers. Our goal is to create a space for filmmakers to have fun and explore.
A 60 hour film fest is 60 hours for a film making team to write, shoot and edit a film. At the kickoff event, teams will recieve randomly drawn assignments they must include in the film, this is to ensure each film is something new as well as a source of inspiration. The result is something beautiful, a screening of all the films together where we can see the hard work and brilliant ideas showcased at Milwaukee’s premiere indepedent venue, The Cooperage. The goal with random assignments isn’t to tell you what kind of film to make, it’s to give you a challenge that you can rise up to.
Patrick Fliess, Will Nicholas, Max Lambert, Mandy Freund, and Natalie Schomisch. We are graduates and students from the UWM Film Program. Former comittee members of The Milwaukee Underground Film Fest. Active Filmmakers in Milwaukee. We want more 24 and 48 hour film festivals in Milwaukee, so we’re putting one on ourselves and giving people a liiiiitle more time so they can be that much more proud of the work they exhibit.
FM106 Secret Show
FM106.1 5th Secret Show!
We're bringing back our Secret Show, powered by Dr Matt Smith at Revive Dentistry in Pewaukee, to The Cooperage on Saturday, August 29th!
We can't tell you about the acts performing at it, but we can tell you that general admission tickets are only $40 each... and a portion of the proceeds goes towards our St. Jude Radiothon!
Food trucks and the outside bar will be open prior to doors opening for some early fun!
Doors open at 11:15am, and the show starts at 12pm!
Gather Them: Animal Instinct
Calling every class, order, and species in the animal kingdom! Get ready for the most WILD night of Gather Them yet!!Prowl our indoor party - featuring your favorite local DJ and Grand Martial, Femme Noir as our headliner! Experience the collaboration of our local creator vendors and take advantage of our pole, tattoo, and tarot pop ups! Or, touch some grass and enjoy our outdoor activities, games, and art table! We are excited to present our first ever- animalistic burlesque show with a steamy pack of sensual beasts who will awaken your primal instinct. Unleash your inner animal with our queer dance party or let loose with outdoor activities and bingo scavenger hunt! There is something for every creature!
Advance tickets start at $10 and go through the end of July. Don't wait to secure your spot at our watering hole! General tickets are $15 starting August 1st! Day of tickets will be $20. Make sure to get yours early!
All net profits from Gather Them go directly back into our collaborators and community. We are grateful for your support, and excited to party with you!
CusCampbell live at The Cooperage!
Award winning R&B legend CusCampbell makes his Harborfront debut!
CusCampbell is an award-winning R&B artist, trombonist, and singer-songwriter. He first gained national attention with a co-sign from Snoop Dogg during Peace Out 2020, a year-end special hosted by Keke Palmer and David Dobrik and produced by ATTN: for Facebook Watch.
He was also featured in a viral TikTok campaign alongside Grammy-winning artist and composer Jon Batiste. Additional credits include recording with legendary producer Sha Money XL and performing for Boston Mayor Michelle Wu and the WNBA.
His single “Party All Night” led to a 50-city headline tour with sold-out shows across North America. A true dual-threat artist, CusCampbell stands out as one built for long-term industry impact.
La Gozadera
Doors at 8:45 p.m. Salsa, bachata, and cumbia all night, with Francis Annan teaching beginner salsa at 9:00 p.m. sharp, he is visiting from London, to teach the community that shaped him. DJ Furcio holds down the music through the night, until 1:45 a.m. Follow us on Instagram for our performer lineup and details. @lagozaderasocialmke
$20 cash only at the door
ALLEY EYES/HOT MESS/CALLBACK/FAKEOUT
ALLEY EYES—LOUD, STYLISH, AND UNFILTERED. BORN OUT OF THE CITY’S DIY SCENE, THE FOUR-PIECE BLENDS SHARP HOOKS, GRITTY GUITARS, AND A TOUCH OF CHAOS INTO SOMETHING THAT FEELS BOTH NOSTALGIC AND BRAND NEW.
THEIR LATEST EP BONDAGE IN THE AFTERNOON IS A COMING-OF-AGE SOUNDTRACK FOR ANYONE WHO’S EVER DANCED THROUGH HEARTBREAK OR LIT A CIGARETTE JUST TO FEEL CINEMATIC. WITH NODS TO THE STROKES, THE BEACHES, AND INHALER, ALLEY EYES CHANNEL EARLY-2000S INDIE WITH A MIDWESTERN HEART.
Hot Mess is a rising Milwaukee pop-rock band consisting ofReid Stevenson (vocals), Sam Theno (guitar), Owen Stevenson (guitar), Trevor Gallagher (bass), and Aidan Valentine (drums). Known for punchy guitars and anthemic hooks, they recently released their latest single, "Take Me Home"
Callback is a Minneapolis-based alternative pop/rock project. Formed in early 2024, Ben Klepfer (Vocals/Production) and Bailey Prevost (Guitar/Production) released their 7-track debut EP, Overobsessed, the following October. Since then, the group has established regional praise for their energetic, captivating, and consistently memorable performances. After releasing a lone single in 2025, Callback has never been more confident in their sound — from the studio to the stage. 2026 promises large steps forward for the project, as Callback remains a must-watch talent in the alt-pop scene.
Fakeout (often styled as F//O) isa hard-hitting alternative and hard rock band based in Milwaukee, Wisconsin
2026 Girls Rock Camp Session 2 Showcase
Come cheer on the next generation of rock stars and celebrate the accomplishments of our Girls Rock Camp Session 2 rockers!
All week camp attendees of all skill levels learn how to play a rock instrument, form a band, write an original song and perform that song they created on their new instrument at this magnificent showcase. The Girls Rock Showcase is the big concert event where campers perform their original songs. Let's cheer them on!
The Cooperage (822 S Water St, Milwaukee, WI 53204)
Free parking in the lot or on the street.
**DOORS at 11:30 a.m.
SHOW at 12:00 p.m. **
Reserve your spot at the show by purchasing this advanced ticket. Tickets will also be available at the door with a sliding-scale door cover of $10-20 that goes to support Girls Rock MKE camp operations. This is a family-friendly event with accompanying family-friendly activities. Fans and friends of all ages are welcome to attend. Kids 10-years-old and under get in FREE!
Merch and refreshments will also be available. We also invite you to enjoy the food trucks parked outside the Cooperage venue before, during, or after the show!
Thank you to media partners 88.9 Radio Milwaukee, HYFIN, and WMSE. Shout-out to Adeline Pumplun (@Adelinejean.art) for the sick camp logo design!
Gimme Gimme Disco
Gimme Gimme Disco returns to the Harborfront!
If you can’t get enough of ABBA, boy do we have THE dance party for you! We are a DJ based dance party playing all your favorite ABBA tracks, plus plenty of other disco hits from the 70s & 80's like The Bee Gees, Donna Summer, Cher, & so much more. So honey honey, take-a-chance and you’ll be dancing all night long. Grab tickets, put on your best disco attire, bring your friends, and have the best night of your life!
SSAANN/KENT AVENUE CARPOOL/CLAIRE MARTINE/MY MELODY
SSAANN Hypnotic dream pop paired with dramatic shoegaze. SSAANN romanticizes soft vocals with massive guitar textures, translating to a floaty, heavenly space flooded with emotion. Supported by live light shows, the 5-piece bring a full sensory experience to their audiences.
Kent Avenue Carpool is an indie psych-rock band born in Milwaukee and based in Chicago. Their dreamy, ethereal sound is driven by founders Sam Beem and Liam Hartnett alongside Josh Trimble and Hugh Maxey.
Claire Martine was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin and now is based in New York City. She grew up playing violin and now I'm writing and producing original alternative music.
88Nine Radio Milwaukee's states, "A classical foundation provides the framework where Martine thrives. Her elegantly soft singing voice bounces around the mix, parallel to the other [band] members ... Martine brings this to her music: an understanding of who she is to her core that rings out of the speakers."
My Melody is a Milwaukee-based indie rock and emo trio featuringKidd Starck (guitar/vocals), Oli Smith (drums), and a third member, blending 90s alt-rock and 2000s math rock.
Geena Fontanella: The Millennial Tour
Geena Fontanella brings her Millenial Tour to the Harborfront!
Geena is a punk millennial artist channeling the raw, angsty energy of the 2000s — think burned CD mixes, chipped black nail polish, and late-night MySpace confessions. Her music blends throwback pop-punk hooks with fresh frustration: loud, heartfelt, and the soundtrack to the teen years you never quite outgrew.
After turning heads with a gritty DIY parking garage tour that turned underground spaces into echo chambers of teen heartbreak, Geena returns with her new single,"Best Friend’s Brother." Out July 30th, it’s a nostalgia-soaked anthem loaded with sharp hooks and the kind of emotional chaos you swore you’d moved past — but secretly still love.
