This year, Harbor Fest dives deeper than ever before. Our 10th anniversary theme — What Lies Beneath — invites you to explore the hidden wonders of Milwaukee's waterways: the science, the creatures, the culture, and the community thriving just below the surface.
Ten years of Harbor Fest calls for some special stuff. We teamed up with Harbor District artist Bigshot Robot on a limited-run t-shirt inspired by this year's theme, What Lies Beneath. And there's MORE! Watch Bigshot Robot paint a version of the design live and in-person — one lucky person will get to take home that art!
Get Your Shirt (and a Shot at the Art)
Preorder by August 31
Reserve your shirt before the window closes. Fill out the preorder form here.
Pick up your shirt at one of two events
Artist Reception, Thursday, September 24 · Harbor Fest, Sunday, September 27
The shirt — $25
Printed on a soft, high-quality Comfort Colors tee by Orchard Street Press.
Enter to win original art — add $5
Add $5 to your order for a chance to win original art painted by Bigshot Robot. Bigshot Robot will be painting live at both the reception and Harbor Fest, so you can watch it take shape. No need to be present to win — we'll announce the winner at the end of Harbor Fest.
Open House
Get a behind-the-scenes look at UW-Milwaukee's School of Freshwater Sciences. Explore interactive exhibits showcasing groundbreaking work in fish ecology, aquaculture, water chemistry, invasive species, and climate change. Meet the scientists and students working to protect the Great Lakes — and get hands-on with activities for all ages.
Learn MoreSturgeon Fest
Celebrate the return of lake sturgeon to Milwaukee's waterways with a special blessing ceremony, then take part in an unforgettable experience — release a baby sturgeon into the Inner Harbor! Each sponsorship includes a keepsake certificate and the chance to track your fish as it grows. Spots are limited.
Reserve at sturgeonfest.orgBy Water Taxi
The most festive way to arrive! Hop on a free water taxi to Harbor Fest. Pick-up locations to be announced — check back soon.
By Car
Head to Harbor View Plaza, 600 East Greenfield Avenue, Milwaukee. A parking map is becoming available soon.