Hello, and a wondrous Wednesday to you and yours!
This week our featured local artist is a photographer who focuses his lens on the Milwaukee area. You can see an example of his lovely work halfway down the meetup list; please admire/follow/share/support him (and fill out this form if you’d like to have your work featured in the future).
Check out the Meetup Matchmaking page if you’re looking for a spot to host your meetup (and fill out this form if you’d like to have your business/space listed).
MKE Meetups is now on Instagram, if you’d like to local-scroll instead of doomscrolling for a spell.
Please reply to this email with comments, suggestions, questions, event/meetup recommendations, or just to say hello—I respond to every email I receive and would love to hear from you :)
Alrighty, here’s this week’s meetups:
Wednesday, January 28
Mom Walk at Mayfair Mall / Free / More Info
9:30am / Mayfair Mall Starbucks, 2500 N Mayfair Rd, Milwaukee
“Ok so January weather, not on our side. Wednesday’s zoo walk has been moved to Mayfair Mall to be safe from the cold. Meet us at Starbucks at 9:30. We’ll start with intros then begin our stroll shortly after. Lmk if you have any questions - link to reg is still in my bio and same link is valid so if you already rsvp’d, no need to do so again!
See ya soon!”
Stepping Out Walking Club / Free / More Info
10:15am-11:15am / Milwaukee Washington Park Library, 2121 North Sherman Blvd, Milwaukee
“Join us for a weekly walk through beautiful Washington Park. Get exercise, enjoy the company of others, and experience the wonders of nature in this sprawling neighborhood park designed by Frederick Law Olmsted.”
Game Demo Night / Free / More Info
6:00pm-8:00pm / Pink Bunny Games, 1204 Minnesota Ave, South Milwaukee
“Every Wednesday night at 6pm we meet at Pink Bunny Games to play board games, and hang out. If you don't know the game, that is ok, we will teach you how to play.
If you have a game that you would like to share, we would love to give your game a try. Please, come in and join us.”
Falcon Game Night / Free / More Info
6:00pm-11:59pm / Falcon Hall (Falcon Bowl), 801 East Clarke Street, Milwaukee
“If you’re into board games, card games, tabletop stuff, or just want to chill with folks who are, Falcon Game Night is your midweek hang. Every (okay, most) Wednesdays we set up shop in Falcon Hall with big tables, cheap drinks, and a low-key vibe that’s perfect for rolling dice, building decks, or figuring out what the hell this game even is. All skill levels welcome. Bring your own games or jump in on someone else’s. Magic, Catan, whatever. It’s casual and it’s all about community. Come through, grab a drink, and play something. Oh, and did we mention it’s free?”
Sugar Maple Book Club / Free / More Info
7:30pm / The Sugar Maple, 441 E Lincoln Ave, Milwaukee
“This month’s Book Club read is “Cloud Cuckoo Land” by Anthony Doerr, a historical science fiction novel with elements of fantasy and unconventional organization. Doerr creates a complex world of characters and plots relating across generations, from Constantinople around the 15th century, events in 2020, and the future. Thematically displaying the importance of balance, the power of stories and their endurance, consequences of extremism, and the value of persistence and resilience in adversity, this book is a must-read for our current times.”
Thursday, January 29
Thursday Wake Up Run / Free / More Info
5:15am-6:00am / Colectivo Coffee, 1701 N Lincoln Memorial Dr, Milwaukee
“Like to run on Thursday mornings? Join us at the Lake Front Colectivo (on Lincoln Memorial Drive across from the Marina) for a three to five mile run. Paces are anywhere from 9:00 to 12:00 minutes per mile - something for everyone. Beginners are welcome! New to running? Ask for Dia and we'll get you started.”
Practice Spanish (and Coffee) / Free / More Info
7:00am-9:00am / Stone Creek Coffee, 5th & St. Paul, Milwaukee
“It is never too early to practice our español so join us for coffee and a pastry. Exploremos la delicia y variabilidad del café, pero sobretodo la comañia y armonía que esta conlleva. Una taza de café siempre es el punto de partida de buenas conversiones y excusas infinitas para simplemente cometer, el acto. ¡No faltes!”
Craft & Chat / Free / More Info
4:00pm-5:30pm / Milwaukee East Library, 2320 North Cramer St,
Milwaukee
“Bring your craft and hang-out for a cozy craft and chat! All-ages program to bring neighborhood crafters together. Every Thursday through April 30.”
Lispector Book Club / Free / More Info
6:00pm-8:00pm / Lion’s Tooth, 2421 S Kinnickinnic Ave, Milwaukee
“Lispector Book Club, reading: “The Hour of the Star” by Clarice Lispector. Considered the most important Jewish writer in the world since Franz Kafka, Brazilian author Clarice Lispector was a legend and a force of nature. Reading her prose will seriously change your life. We start our Clarice Book Club with her last novel, published originally in 1977. Slyly subverting ideas of poverty, identity, love and the art of writing itself, “The Hour of the Star” is a haunting portrayal of innocence in a bad world.”
Thursday Yoga / Free (suggested donation of $1) / More Info
6:00pm-7:00pm / Society of Friends, 3224 N Gordon Pl, Milwaukee
“Join us for a fun and invigorating hour of yoga! This is a casual, beginner oriented group that will focus mainly on basic and a few intermediate poses. A yoga mat is recommended so please bring your own. We usually go for drinks/food afterwards so please join if you are free!”
Friday, January 30
Rise and Write / Free / More Info
7:00am-8:45am / Amaranth Bakery & Café, 3329 W Lisbon Ave, Milwaukee
“Rise and Write is a quick meetup for those who like to get their writing done in the early mornings. 7:00-7:15: Arrive, get settled, say hello, order coffee and a snack if you like (the croissants are highly recommended). 7:15-8:30: Write. 8:30-8:45: Chit chat about writing and the usual small talk topics.” RSVP via the link.
Critical Mass/ Free /More Info(Rescheduled so cyclists can ride in the We Ride With Unity event on the 31st, listed below)6:00pm / Red Arrow Park, 920 N Water St, Milwaukee“Join a group of your neighbors riding bikes around Milwaukee while having fun and drawing attention to the need for better bicycle infrastructure in the city. This is a social slow roll ride that moves at a pace of around 10mph. You are welcome to leave the ride when you’d like, but as a “no drop” ride, no one will get left behind the group because of pace. We will make sure everyone makes it through traffic lights and intersections as a group.”
Let’s Climb Together / $12-16 / More Info
6:00pm-8:00pm / Adventure Rock MKE, 2220 N Commerce St, Milwaukee
“It doesn’t matter if you’re a seasoned climber or this will be your first time on a wall. There’s a route for anyone of every skill level. When you walk in mention, you are here for the MeetUp. First-timers who are MeetUp participants enjoy a day pass discount. $12 for a day pass without gear and $16 for a day pass with all the necessary rental equipment. The staff will also attempt to direct you to the MeetUp Organizer(s). You don’t need to bring anything special to climb, but we recommend gym attire to aid in movement on the wall.” More details at the link”
Featured Milwaukee Creator: Mike Kornacki
Saturday, January 31
River Trail Run / Free / More Info
7:00am-9:00am / Colectivo Lakefront, 1701 N Lincoln Memorial Dr, Milwaukee
“Have you ever wanted to run on dirt instead of pavement? Here’s an opportunity. Don’t expect this to be your typical road run. Our pace is more relaxed and we enjoy our beautiful trail scenery. We meet in front of Colectivo and head to the Milwaukee River Trails. We honor our 5 minute grace period. If this is your first time ask for Veronica or the OMG host. We’d be happy to answer questions and explain options. Grab your bug spray and extra water and we’ll see you there!”
MKE Fiber Friends / Free / More Info
9:00am-12:00pm / Kuumba Juice & Coffeehouse, 274 E Keefe Ave, Milwaukee
“This meet up is in solidarity with ICE OUT and the call to defund ICE. We’ll be spending part of our time calling and writing to our representatives, alongside working on our fiber projects together. Participation is always at your comfort level. You’re welcome to make calls, write letters, work on your WIP, or simply be present with us. No pressure, just care.”
Girls Who Walk / Free / More Info
10:00am / Lakeshore State Park (next to the lighthouse), 500 N Harbor Dr, Milwaukee
“Meet next to the lighthouse at Lakeshore State Park (behind Summerfest!!). 2.25 miles along the lake. All paces, strollers, and mobility devices welcome. pups on leashes can join too!! Hope to see y’all there!”
Sip and Soothe / Free / More Info
10:00am-12:00pm / Milwaukee Villard Square Library, 5190 North 35th St,
Milwaukee
“Take a coffee break to warmup and relax with soothing music, crossword puzzles, mazes, adult coloring and more!”
Gay Agenda / Free / More Info
10:00am-1:00pm / Stone Creek Coffee, 2650 N Downer Ave, Milwaukee
“We’re back! Come spend some time with us at the Stone Creek on Downer this Saturday, January 31st from 10:00am - 1:00pm. Starting this year we will be trying out two meet ups a month so folks can have twice as many opportunities to come hang. Wear a mask & meet some new homies.”
We Ride In Unity / Free / More Info
1:00pm / Milwaukee City Hall, 200 E Wells St, Milwaukee
“Milwaukee joins riders all over the country to ride in honor of Alex Pretti. We will meet at 1pm Saturday, January 31 at City Hall and do a Riverwest 24 lap in his memory, and in the memory of all who have been murdered by the fascist regime.”
Sunday, February 1
Chess at The Shop / Free / More Info
9:00am-2:00pm / Colectivo Coffee, 2999 N Humboldt Blvd, Milwaukee
“Everybody is welcome from absolute beginners to seasoned players! Bring a set, come through sit down, sip some coffee, and play a game of Chess!”
Riverwest Sunday Walk / Free / More Info
9:30am / The Daily Bird, 818 E Center St, Milwaukee
Meet at the Daily Bird, leave around 9:45am, and walk along the river; kids, dogs, everyone welcome; walk is about 2 miles total and ends back at the Daily Bird. Check the host’s FB updates for specifics about the walking route based on the day’s weather.
Late Morning Shorewood Run / Free / More Info
10:00am-11:00am / Corner Bakery Cafe, 1305 E Capitol Dr, Shorewood
“This meetup is great for folks of all paces from Speedy McSpeedies to walkers and everything in between, including plenty of folks like your host who enjoy an 11- to 13-minute pace. The tone is relaxed as we all put in a chill 2 to 4 miles on the Oak Leaf Trail. We’ll meet up behind the Corner Bakery at Capitol and Wilson in Shorewood, which is also a good place for coffee and eats afterward for those so inclined.”
Sunday Reading Group / Free / More Info
1:00pm-2:00pm / Kuumba Juice & Coffeehouse, 274 E Keefe Ave, Milwaukee
Read with other human beings in companionable silence! Show up a little early and/or stay after if you want to meet some new people and chat about books (or whatever else comes up).
Milwaukee Area Riichi Mahjong / Free / More Info
1:00pm-3:30pm / Wauwatosa Public Library (Conference Room B), 7635 W North Ave, Wauwatosa
“Come on by and play Riichi! We meet up on most Sundays at the Wauwatosa Public Library to learn about and play this fascinating classic tile game. If you have never played before, we will teach you how to play! More meetup details can be found in the link.”
Walker’s Point Yak & Yarn / Free / More Info
2:00pm-4:00pm / Midwest Sad, 601 S 6th St, Milwaukee
“Our host, Midwest Sad is a cozy bakery that offers sweet and savory treats, as well as a beverage menu. As always, all ages and skill levels welcome! Please bring any kind of craft you like, and a buddy if you feel so inclined <3”
Monday, February 2
Swing Dance Lessons / $10 (social hour is free) / More Info
6:45pm-10:15pm / Falcon Bowl, 801 East Clarke St, Milwaukee
Ages 18-and-up; registration/check in/warm-up at 6:45pm, Lindy Hop 200 at 7:00pm-8:00pm; registration/check in/warm-up at 8:00pm-8:15pm; Lindy Hop 102 at 8:15pm-9:15pm; social Hour/open practice at 9:15pm-10:15pm.
Tuesday, February 3
Tuesday Wake Up Run / Free / More Info
5:15am-6:00am / Colectivo Lakefront, 1701 N Lincoln Memorial Dr, Milwaukee
“Join us on Tuesday mornings starting at Colectivo at the Lakefront for a three to five mile run on the well lite paths along Lincoln Memorial Drive. Paces are anywhere from 9:00 to 12:00 minutes per mile - something for everyone. Beginners are welcome! New to running? Ask for Dia and we’ll get you started.”
King Makers Fiber Arts Group / Free / More Info
5:30pm-6:30pm / Milwaukee MLK Library, 2901 N Doctor MLK Jr Dr,
Milwaukee
“A place to work on your favorite fiber arts or mending project. Beginners and Experts welcome! Start from scratch or bring your knitting, crochet, sewing, mending or other fiber-related project for an hour of conversation and community at King Library. Some supplies on hand for new knitters (basic knowledge is assumed), but feel free to bring your own if you have them.”
Art Club MKE / Free / More Info
6:00pm-7:30pm / Indeed Brewing, 530 S. 2nd Street Milwaukee
“Make more art this winter! Meetups are free and all are welcome. Worried about art supplies? I’ve got you covered! I have paper, pencils and markers ready to share. Coming solo? Totally okay! New people show up each time on their own or with others and we’re a friendly bunch.”
Tuesday Night Ride / Free / More Info
6:00pm-9:00pm / Last Rites, 625 S 6th St, Milwaukee
“Start point is at Last Rites. Meet and pre-ride social starting at 6pm. Roll out at 6:30pm prompt. Always slow roll around 10mph. Never drop riders for pace. Never cancel for weather. Bring lights!” Map of tentative route via link
Open Meditation / Free / More Info
6:30pm-7:15pm / Shambhala Meditation Center, 2344 N. Oakland Avenue, Milwaukee
Group sitting meditation, reading, discussion, and socializing; no experience necessary; free event, but donations welcome
Tuesday Swing Dance / Free / More Info
7:00pm-10:00pm / Falcon Bowl, 801 E Clarke St, Milwaukee
“Every Tuesday is a live band swing dance at Falcon Bowl in Riverwest! The absolute best way to spend a weekday night. Don’t (yet) dance? Come for the basic lesson at 7:00 or just take a seat and enjoy the spectacle. 7:00 to 8:00 Free swing dance lesson (no partner needed). 8:00 to 10:00 Live swing band (free to enter, please tip the band). Always free. Always fun. Tip the band to keep it going!”
I hope you have a phenomenal week :)
The planner club is the wrong day/time. I went and no one was there, not sure when the right one