FREE Sunday Family Fun Days Return to the Lakefront in 2026

A wide view of the vibrant Northwestern Mutual Community Park in downtown Milwaukee, showcasing its colorful play structures, musical elements, and skyline in the background.

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Mark your calendars for June 7, July 19, August 9, and September 13

Sunday Family Fun Days with MKE With Kids are returning to the Northwestern Mutual Community Park at the lakefront for the 2026 season — and they’re completely FREE to attend.

The popular family friendly series takes place from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and features interactive activities, performances, and free play at the Northwestern Mutual Community Park in an inclusive and welcoming environment for families of all ages and abilities.

Each FREE Sunday Family Fun Day highlights a unique theme with programming and hands-on activities led by local community organizations.

June 7 – Summerfest Theme – a celebration of creativity and hands-on fun, celebrating Summerfest

  • Performances from Salsabrositas and ClubSciKids
  • Enjoy an Eagles & Friends Raptor Show presented by Schlitz Audubon Nature Center
  • Interactive art and engagement activities with Girl Scouts of Wisconsin Southeast
  • Hands-on science exploration with Discovery World
  • Problem solving and innovation with The Hovercraft Project , and more

July 19 – Family Health & Wellness Theme focused on physical, emotional, and social wellbeing for families

  • Performances from JustUsAndBooks and the Milwaukee Flyers
  • Adaptive and inclusive play experiences with The Ability Center
  • Youth mentoring engagement with Big Brothers Big Sisters
  • Hearing and communication resources from HEAR Wisconsin
  • Youth soccer activities with Milwaukee Kickers Soccer Club
  • Fitness and wellness programming with YMCA of Greater Milwaukee, and more

August 9 – STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics) Theme –a day of curiosity, experimentation, and discovery

  • Performances from JustUsAndBooks, Club SciKidz and the Milwaukee Flyers
  • Build-your-own obstacle course and hands-on activities with The Betty Brinn Children’s Museum Wonder Wagon
  • Science based health education with the American Cancer Society
  • Handson engineering activities with Gearbox Labs
  • Math games and challenges with Mathnasium, and more

September 13 – Performing Arts Theme – celebrating music, dance, and creative expression with local arts groups

  • Unique arts programming from TBEY Arts Center, and more
  • Performances from Bembé Drum & Dance, Salsabrositas, and JustUsAndBooks
  • Engagement with Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra and preview of season
  • Interactive mini-music class from Wisconsin Conservatory of Music
Children explore a colorful, inclusive playground with ramps, slides, and climbing structures at Northwestern Mutual Community Park in Milwaukee.

Here’s everything you need to know to plan your visit:

📍 Location

Northwestern Mutual Community Park
Inside Henry Maier Festival Park
200 N. Harbor Drive, Milwaukee, WI

Free parking is available in Lot G (south of the Mid-Gate). There’s also designated bike parking if you’re riding in.

Green and yellow musical-themed playground equipment at Northwestern Mutual Community Park, featuring slides, climbing features, and interactive panels designed for accessible play.

Food & Drink Options

A variety of kid-approved (and parent-loved) treats will be available for purchase, including:

  • Pizza and hot dogs
  • Uncrustables® PB&J 
  • Nachos
  • Bobalou Stuffed Gourmet Pretzels & Soft Frozen Lemonade
  • Fazio’s Gourmet Popcorn Wagon
  • Pete Pops
  • Sil’s Mini Donuts & Coffee

Good to Know

  • All events are free, thanks to the generous support of the Northwestern Mutual Foundation.
  • The park is fully inclusive and accessible, designed for children of all abilities.
  • On non-event days, the playground is open to the public from 10:00 a.m. to dusk

Pro Parent Tip:


Looking for More Free Family Fun?

If you’re planning your spring and summer with the kids, we’ve got more ideas to keep the good times rolling, without breaking the bank:

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