Third Ward Moon Festival kicks off today at 5 p.m. in Milwaukee’s Historic Third Ward with civic leaders and live performances. The kick-off celebration is happening at Catalano Square, 138 North Broadway, from 5:00–6:00 p.m.
This is the only U.S. stop in 2026 for artist Luke Jerram’s internationally acclaimed Museum of the Moon. The Museum of the Moon is a 23-foot illuminated sculpture created using NASA imagery that has captivated audiences around the world.
The celebration will feature remarks from community leaders, live performances and numerous visual opportunities beneath the giant illuminated moon. The weekend festival will showcase the depth and diversity of the restaurants, shops and arts organizations that call the Third Ward home.
Program Highlights
- 5:00 p.m. – MKE Hittaz Drum Corp performance.
- 5:10 p.m. – Welcome from emcee Jim Plaisted, Historic Third Ward Association
- Next, remarks from:
- Joe Goode, Historic Third Ward Association Board President
- Mayor Cavalier Johnson
- Milwaukee County Board Chair Marcelia Nicholson-Bovell
- Approximately 5:42 p.m. – Special moon-themed performance by Skylight Music Theatre.
- 6:00 p.m. – Festival continues throughout Catalano Square.
The free, three-day festival features live music, art, food, family activities and the Museum of the Moon.
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.
About the Historic Third Ward Association
Celebrating 50 years in 2026, the Historic Third Ward Association acts as a catalyst to guide the district as an innovative, livable, and exciting mixed-use neighborhood while preserving its historic and creative character.
About Museum of the Moon
Co-Commissioned by several 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.