Is it just us, or did summer fly by? Although it’s still hot and humid outside, Labor Day weekend seems to be the unofficial close of summer. Summer for us was different this year than most, as we spent a lot of time prepping for the baby.
We did construction on our Third Ward condo adding a new room for the baby, had a wonderful fiesta-themed baby shower, and took several baby classes. We finally feel (somewhat) prepared. Now the waiting game begins!
In between the swaddles and diapers, we also tried to take advantage of the best time of the year in Milwaukee. We went to as many festivals as we could, showcased our products at several craft fairs and summer markets, and enjoyed various patios and outdoor restaurants (highly recommend Sala on the east side).
Each month, we round up three of our favorite things in Milwaukee and August is no exception. Let’s get into it!
We Banjo 3
We Banjo 3 is an Irish band from Galway who describes their style as the “common ground between old-world tradition and authentic Americana by plying their banjo, fiddle, guitar and mandolin in an innovative fusion of styles that they dub “Celtgrass.”” Formed by two sets of two brothers, three of the members play the banjo, hence the name We Banjo 3.
The band’s first American show was at Milwaukee’s Irish Fest about six or seven years ago and they have drawn a bigger and bigger crowd each year since. They have strong ties to Milwaukee because this is where they got their first big break.
We first discovered We Banjo 3 at the Irish Cultural and Heritage Center downtown a few years ago and have been listening to them consistently since. We both love Irish music and have dubbed We Banjo 3 one of our favorite Irish bands. We’ve seen them at Irish Fest for the past few years now and they always put on a great live show.
The Mayor of Galway even introduced them at this year’s Irish Fest. They just released a new album, entitled Haven, which is outstanding. At Irish Fest this year, they played music from their new album along with Irish classics like our favorite, “Long Black Veil”.
We Banjo 3’s love for the city and amazing music make them a must see. They are coming back to play at the Pabst Theatre in February 2019 so be sure to check them out!
Harley-Davidson 115th Anniversary
Zach works for Harley-Davidson so it was extra fun this year enjoying the 115th Anniversary celebrations. Each year over Labor Day weekend, Harley-Davidson hosts an anniversary party and the 115th was an especially big deal. With bikers riding in from around the country and world, there were tons of events going on all weekend long. Zach actually met one group of riders who drove up from Guatemala (over 4,000 miles!) in 8 days just to experience the festivities.
It’s great to see such fantastic energy throughout the city to know that the products all these people are coming to see are made locally in our own backyard. We went out for the first Badger game of the year on Brady Street and got to experience the neighborhood block party first hand. There were thousands of people and bikes taking over Brady Street exploring all that Milwaukee has to offer.
The live music, rumble of motorcycles everywhere and overall vibe always make the anniversary a great time. Meeting people from all around the world and hearing their stories about H-D are part of what makes the anniversary such a special experience.
Upcoming Events
We love doing craft fairs and maker’s markets and have several coming up this fall and winter we wanted to invite anyone and everyone to attend! Fall events are perfect for holiday shopping so check out the list below of upcoming events we’ll be attending with our products (more will be added soon!).
HydePark x Rivolt Accessories Fall/Winter Fashion Show
What: Annual fall/winter fashion show, featuring local Milwaukee makers
When: Sunday, September 9, 2018
- Show will start at 1:00 pm
Shopping event featuring local artists & business owners from 12:30 -3:00 pm
Where: Hyde Park, 6738 W. Wells St. in Wauwatosa
Tickets: $5, benefiting the Grace Foundation
Gallery Night in the Historic Third Ward
What: A premier art event featuring local artists in various galleries and storefronts in Milwaukee
- Milwaukee Beer Gear will have a booth at local advertising agency, Hoffman York
When: Friday, October 19 from 5 – 9 pm
Where: Hoffman York, 200 N. Water Street
Balzac Farmer’s Market by Milwaukee Maker’s Market
What: Farm and art market, fresh local produce, art, music and more
When: Sunday, October 28, 2018, 10 am – 3 pm
Where: N. Arlington Place and Brady Street
Third Branch Modern Holiday Market
What: Modern holiday market featuring a curated mix of Milwaukee brands
When: Saturday, December 8, timing TBD
Where: Third Branch Creative Studio, 133 Pittsburgh St., Suite 200 in Walker’s Point
Hope to see you all there!