Catalano Square | AUG. 7-9, 2026

In honor of the Historic Third Ward Association’s 50th anniversary, the Third Ward Moon Festival will transform the neighborhood into a luminous, open-air celebration of art, community, and creativity. Over three days, the district will become an immersive experience where historic charm meets contemporary expression — blending large-scale public art, live entertainment, wellness, and local culture into one unforgettable weekend.

At the heart of the festival is Museum of the Moon, a breathtaking illuminated installation by artist Luke Jerram. Suspended above the Catalano Square fountain, the piece features a detailed, internally lit moon created using imagery from NASA — offering a rare opportunity to experience a globally recognized work of art in an accessible, public setting.

Both a striking visual centerpiece and an emotional focal point, the installation invites moments of reflection, connection, and awe — while creating stunning, shareable scenes day and night. ​​

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​Throughout the weekend, visitors can explore a thoughtfully curated lineup of programming, including live music, performances, interactive art experiences, cultural activations, and wellness offerings designed to engage both body and mind. With a strong emphasis on local and regional talent, the festival celebrates the creative spirit that defines the Third Ward. Family-friendly activities ensure there’s something for all ages, while the seamless transition from day to night brings a dynamic shift in energy as the moon installation glows against the evening sky.

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Daily lineups with times and locations will be available in the coming weeks. General hours for the festival are 5-11 p.m. Friday, Aug. 7; 10 a.m.-11 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 8; and 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 9.

Friday, August 7: Kick-Off Celebration

The festival opens with welcome remarks from local dignitaries, a special performance by Milwaukee’s own Hittaz Drum Line, and a medley of moon-themed songs from Skylight Music Theatre. DJ Kenny Perez, band Wisconsin Space Program, Edessa School of Fashion with the Florentine Opera, and local musician Dak DuBois will keep the energy flowing throughout opening night.

Saturday, August 8: Creativity & Culture Day

Saturday highlights the neighborhood's creative roots through a full day of family-friendly programming. The day begins with Cosmic Kids Morning, featuring music from Radio Milwaukee’s DJ Dori Zori and glow-in-the-dark painting led by artists Neto Atkinson and Louie Brewer. Visitors can also experience live chalk art installations from local artists along Broadway.

Additional daytime performances include a mini-lesson and a pop-up performance by Milwaukee Ballet dancers, as well as music by Irish Fest performers Sarah Sheehan and Kevin Shortall.

The evening kicks off with a set by DJ Ku Mays, a performance by Panadanza Dance Company, and an electrifying show by Milwaukee favorite, De La Buena.

Sunday, August 9: Mindfulness & Music

The festival concludes with experiences focused on wellness, reflection, and community from Good Land Massage, Brew City Blooms, The Botanical Collective, Mobile Mini Trucks, Bolt Babes Permanent Jewelry & Fine Line Tattoos, Honeybee Sage & Wellness, henna artist Priti Lala, tintypes by Margaret Muza and much more. Plus, plein-air painting by JK Art House will dot the park's landscape.

Live performances throughout the day will include smooth jazz trumpet artist Nathan Mayfield and the Marcya Danielle Trio. The evening features the Will Carter Jazz Quartet, and local favorites Mama Digdown's Brass Band closing the festival. The jazz performances are curated by Milwaukee’s own Fresh Coast Jazz Festival, in homage to the Third Ward’s former Summer Sizzle jazz festival.

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The Third Ward Moon Festival, presented in celebration of the 50th anniversary of the Historic Third Ward Association, is free and open to the public. Visitors are encouraged to explore the neighborhood's galleries, restaurants, boutiques, and public spaces in addition to scheduled programming. The Third Ward Beer Garden will also be open for extended hours throughout the festival weekend.

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​The Third Ward Moon Festival is presented by the Historic Third Ward Association and Business Improvement District #2, and supported by Laffey, Leitner & Goode LLC and the Third Ward Beer Garden.

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Museum of the Moon has been co-commissioned by a number of creative organisations brought together by Luke Jerram and Norfolk & Norwich Festival. These include: Greenwich+Docklands International Festival, Brighton Festival, Without Walls, Cork Midsummer Festival, We The Curious, Lakes Alive, Provincial Domain Dommelhof, Les Tombées de la Nuit, Rennes and Ensemble Arts Philly. The artwork has also been created in partnership with the UK Space Agency, University of Bristol and The Association for Science and Discovery Centres.