Greetings and a good Wednesday tidings!
As I mentioned last week, there’s now a beta version of the MKE Meetups website that I’ve been building available for your perusal. Please kick the tires and tell me if anything falls off.
This week’s featured local artist is a multidisciplinary maker who produces pieces rooted in dreamlike realism and close observation. Check out her work halfway down the meetup list. (Please admire/follow/share/support her and her work, and consider filling out this form if you’d like to have your work featured in the future.)
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, February 11
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.”
MKE Fiber Friends / Free / More Info
5:00pm-7:00pm / Azal Coffee, 1318 S 1st St, Milwaukee
“Bring whatever you’re working on. Any project, any stage. I truly love seeing what everyone is creating and the energy people bring each week. RSVPs will always be posted a few days before the meet up.”
Poetry Night / Free / More Info
6:00pm / Midwest Shores, 207 E Wisconsin Ave, Milwaukee
“Join us for night of community and warmth. Share your own poems or lyrics, a favorite piece, or simply come to listen and witness the art of spoken word in community. This is a space to connect, express and build together. RSVP by DMing (via link) so we can prepare the space with intention. Signup at 6pm, readings begin 6:30pm. Hot water provided—bring your own mug and favorite tea or cozy drink.”
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.”
East Side Yarn Night / Free / More Info
6:00pm-9:00pm / Eagle Park Brewing, 823 E Hamilton St, Milwaukee
“Bring your projects, grab your friends, enjoy some great drinks, and settle in for an evening of creativity and good company. We can’t wait to see you! BYO supplies, everyone is welcome.”
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.”
MKE Discord Board Game Club / Free / More Info
6:30pm-9:30pm / Faklandia Brewing Company, 3807 S Packard Ave, Saint Francis
“Let’s meet in Faklandia Brewing Company for some games and friendship. They have food and drink.” Free Discord account required to view link.
Thursday, February 12
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.”
Bay View Books and Beer Book Club / Free / More Info
6:30pm / Sugar Maple, 441 E Lincoln Ave, Milwaukee
“Join us for some beers and a full debrief of Sea of Tranquility with all your favorite fellow book clubbers! Happy reading!”
Drinking Liberally Milwaukee / Free / More Info
6:30pm-8:30pm / Art Bar, 722 E Burleigh St, Milwaukee
“Come share a pint and talk progressive politics! Drinking Liberally is a nationwide network of informal, inclusive progressive social groups that gives like-minded, left-leaning individuals a place to talk politics. You don’t need to be a policy expert and this isn’t a book club - just come and learn from peers, trade jokes, vent frustration and hang out in an environment where it’s not taboo to talk politics. Look for the folks wearing Drinking Liberally MKE buttons.”
Drinks & Comics / Free / More Info
7:00pm-9:00pm / Central Waters Brewing Co, 1037 W Juneau Ave, Milwaukee
“Hello all! Our next meetup is coming up on February 12th! Everyone is encouraged to bring comics made by black creators in honor of Black History Month! Either a fav you’ve read before, or try out a new comic! Hope to see y’all at Central Waters Brewing Co (MKE location) at 7! :)”
Friday, February 13
BYO Book Nook Craft Night / Free / More Info
6:30pm / Vennture Brew Co, 5519 W North Ave, Milwaukee
“Join us for a craft night at Vennture Brew Co in Brookfield! While the primary focus will be making book nooks (examples via link), feel free to bring ANY craft, activity, or book & come out for a fun evening. This is a low pressure activity night, so if you just want to come for the vibes: welcome!!! Book nook kits can be found on Amazon or at Michael’s.”
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.” RSVP via the link.
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. 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.
Milwaukee Contra Dance / $10 ($5 for students, $20 for families) / More Info
7:30pm-10:00pm / Society of Friends, 3224 N. Gordon Place, Milwaukee
“Live music, intro lesson at 7:00. Our callers teach and call with nongendered terms. We strive to be welcoming. Please wear clean, non-marking, soft-soled shoes. Many of us keep a separate pair to change into from street shoes.” More details about live acts and parking via link.
Featured Milwaukee Creator: Erica Brautigam
Saturday, February 14
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!”
Second Saturday Bird Walks / Free / More Info
8:30am-10:30am / Havenwoods State Forest, 6141 N. Hopkins S., Milwaukee
“Enjoy an informal guided birding walk, spotting and identifying birds as we go. Mostly flat terrain with less than 1 mile of hiking. Dress for the weather and bring your binoculars or borrow a pair at the Nature Center. No prior experience in birding is necessary. New birders and families welcome! This event will be held rain or shine.”
Open Crafting / Free / More Info
10:00am-12:00pm / Havenwoods State Forest, 6141 N. Hopkins S., Milwaukee
“Grab your project and meet up with fellow crafters. This free event is open to adults. Arrive anytime between 10 and noon. All portable crafts are welcome. Guests are welcome to bring food or non-alcoholic drinks. Coffee and tea are provided. This event will be held rain or shine.”
Just Write It On Saturday / Free / More Info
10:00am-1:00pm / Anodyne Coffee, 224 W Bruce St, Milwaukee
“Just Write It On Saturday is a loosely structured meetup where you just show up and write. We’ll talk briefly at the beginning and have a recap at the end, but mostly we’ll just write. RSVPs not required, but appreciated.”
Death Café / Free / More Info
1:00pm-3:00pm / Milwaukee Bay View Library, 2566 South Kinnickinnic Avenue, Milwaukee
“The goal of a Death Café is to support each other in normalizing talk about death, which is such an important part of life. This free gathering is completely participant led; there is no agenda. We will take turns speaking thoughtfully and listening respectfully. Light refreshments will be served.”
Brush Hour / Free / More Info
1:00pm-3:00pm / Milwaukee Villard Square Library, 2566 5190 North 35th Street,
Milwaukee
“Enjoy a relaxing afternoon sipping a refreshing drink and spending time with great company while creating your own artistic masterpiece. Not quite Picasso? No worries! Our fun and easy paint-by-number sip and paint has you covered? No experience needed, just good vibes!”
Yak & Yarn Love Note Craft Night / Free / More Info
3:00pm-5:00pm / Bad Moon Saloon, 4035 S Clement Ave, Milwaukee
“We collaborated with Bad Moon Saloon to make this little Pal-entine’s event! Come on by to make some Valentine’s for you, your friend, your lover, whoever! This is a separate event from our regular meetups, and we will still have our Daily Bird meetup on the 19th.” Details about what’s provided and what to bring via link.
Sunday, February 15
Dads Walk / Free / More Info
9:00am-11:00am / Urban Ecology Center (Riverside Park), 1500 E. Park Place, Milwaukee
“A free walking group for dads and their children, kids and dads of all ages are welcome. Group walks are a fun way to engage with community, develop social skills, and explore new areas. No registration required, meet outside the UEC.”
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.
Girls Who Walk / Free / More Info
10:00am / Humboldt Park (Corner of Howell & Montana), 3000 S Howell Ave, Milwaukee
“2.1 mile loop through the park, all paces, strollers, and mobility devices welcome. Pups on leashes can join too!! Hope to see y’all there.”
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.”
Coffee with Comrades / Free / More Info
10:00am-12:00pm / Rochambo Coffee & Tea House, 1317 E Brady St, Milwaukee
“Join us for Coffee with Comrades. It’s a casual, small group gathering to get to know other members, discuss local organizing, talk theory, and learn about what DSA has been doing in Milwaukee. Feel free to bring printed articles to share and discuss.
All are welcome to join at any time! You don’t need to be a member, but a DSA onboarder will be present if you have questions or want to get involved.” More details via link.
Just Write It On Sunday / Free / More Info
12:00pm-3:00pm / Anodyne Coffee, 224 W Bruce St, Milwaukee
“Just Write It On Sunday is a loosely structured meetup where you just show up and write. We’ll chit chat in the beginning and break for a chat in the end, but mostly we’ll just write. RSVPs not required, but appreciated.”
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-5:30pm / Brookfield Square (Food Court), 95 N Moorland Road, Brookfield
“Come on by and play Riichi! We meet up on most Sundays 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.”
Women’s Climbing Meetup / $15 / More Info
6:00pm-8:00pm / Adventure Rock, 2220 N Commerce St, Milwaukee
“The Women’s Climbing Meetup seeks to foster an empowering community for female-identifying climbers at the gym. This is an inclusive space to climb, train and learn together! Anyone who identifies as a woman is encouraged to attend. This meet-up will include women of all nationalities, backgrounds, identities, sizes, orientations, and climbing levels. Register through the events page on our website.”
Monday, February 16
Cozy Crafting / Free / More Info
5:30pm-7:00pm / Milwaukee Central Library, 814 West Wisconsin Avenue,
Milwaukee
“Get cozy, craft, and meet up with friends and neighbors at the Central Library! Bring along your latest work in progress, or try out an easy, librarian-selected crochet pattern. We’ll enjoy hot seasonal drinks, and browse a curated selection of pattern books available to scan or check out. Bring along a skein or two of yarn if you’re looking to de-stash. We will have a mini yarn exchange at each meeting!”
Happy Writing Hours / Free / More Info
5:30pm-8:00pm / Vennture Brew Co, 5519 W North Ave, Milwaukee
“Happy Writing Hours is a weekly meetup for those who like to get their writing done at night. While drinking isn’t required or even expected, Vennture sells both coffee and beer, so you can decide how happy you want to make your writing hours. If you’d like to attend this event, please RSVP.”
Art Club MKE / Free / More Info
6:00pm-7:30pm / Love Cafe, 3801 N. Oakland Ave, Shorewood
“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.”
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 17
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.”
Hidden Chapters Book Club / Free / More Info
6:00pm-7:00pm / Milwaukee Central Library, 814 West Wisconsin Avenue,
Milwaukee
“Tucked away in a cozy corner of the library, The Hidden Chapter Book Club gathers once a month to read, sip, and discover. We’ll discuss a new book each month and explore historic library spaces and collections overlooked by the everyday visitor. February meeting will discuss James: a novel by Percival Everett and view special collections holdings that celebrate Black Milwaukee. Meet up in the Old Board Room, first floor Rotunda, bookseller corridor, last door on the right.”
Cards Coffee Community / Free / More Info
6:00pm-8:00pm / Rochambo Coffee and Teahouse (Second Floor), 1317 E Brady St, Milwaukee
“Join us for cards, coffee & community at Rochambo. Come grab some free pizza from Ian’s (first come first serve). Pop in at any time and bring a friend or come by yourself! All are welcome :) We’ll have house rules for the classic 52 card deck games & uno!”
East Side Yarn Night / Free / More Info
6:00pm-9:00pm / Vintage Bar, 2203 N Prospect Ave, Milwaukee
“Bring your projects, grab your friends, enjoy some great drinks, and settle in for an evening of creativity and good company. We can’t wait to see you! BYO supplies, everyone is welcome.”
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 :)