THE MKE
The Best in Milwaukee 2025

AWARD WINNING: Bands, Businesses, Deals, Events, and Shops

FoundInMKE – (group)

NOMINATE SOMETHING COOL!

PARTNER WITH US!

NFL

Packers’ Big Win vs. Steelers: What It Tells Us

October 26, 2025October 26, 2025

Bucks Talk

Fear the Deer: Milwaukee Bucks Start Strong and Set Their Sights on a Big Season

October 25, 2025October 25, 2025

Brewer Talk

Milwaukee Brewers 2025: A Season That Made Wisconsin Proud

October 21, 2025October 21, 2025

Discover

Hot, Saucy, and So Milwaukee – Who’s Got the Best Wings 2025?

October 20, 2025October 21, 2025

Discover

The Most-Loved Milwaukee County Attractions – Choose the Best of 2025!

October 18, 2025October 22, 2025

Discover

Eat

Hot, Saucy, and So Milwaukee – Who’s Got the Best Wings 2025?

October 20, 2025October 21, 2025

Discover

Vote for Nominees

The Most-Loved Milwaukee County Attractions – Choose the Best of 2025!

October 18, 2025October 22, 2025

Vote for Nominees

The Best Haunts in Wisconsin 2025 — Pick Your Favorite… If You Dare

October 4, 2025October 20, 2025

Two Rivers Treasures: Vote for the Best Shop of 2025!

Discover

Shops

Two Rivers Treasures: Vote for the Best Shop of 2025!

October 1, 2025October 20, 2025

Contests

Finding the Biggest Fan of Wisconsin Sports 2025 – Contest

September 29, 2025October 15, 2025

Wisconsin’s Best Music Venues in 2025: You Nominated, Now You Decide!

Entertainment

Vote for Nominees

Wisconsin’s Best Music Venues in 2025: You Nominated, Now You Decide!

September 27, 2025October 15, 2025

About the WI HEART AWARDS

Welcome to The MKE, the official home of the Wi Heart Awards 2025 by Found in Wisconsin — where Milwaukee celebrates itself. Every year, Wisconsin’s very own nominate and vote for the best in Milwaukee: the bands that bring the city to life, the businesses that keep it thriving, the restaurants we crave, and the events that define our local culture. From the Third Ward to Bay View, Downtown to Walker’s Point, The MKE shines a spotlight on award-winning Milwaukee favorites—the people, places, and experiences that make this city unforgettable. Whether you’re hunting for the best Milwaukee restaurants, the top local bands, or simply want to see what’s trending across MKE events 2025, you’re in the right place. The Wi Heart Awards are proudly powered by Found in Wisconsin, connecting communities and showcasing what makes our state extraordinary. This is more than a list — it’s a love letter to local life. Explore nominees, cast your vote, and discover why when it comes to local pride, no one does it like Milwaukee. NOMINATE SOMETHING COOL IN MKE

Featured Listings

MILWAUKEE

Here are the Latest Featured Listings in Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Featured

Now Open

Luxe Golf Bays

7065 S. Ballpark Drive, Franklin, WI 53132

Luxe Golf Bays — Swing. Eat. Drink. Experience. ...

Featured

Now Open

Milwaukee County Zoo

10001 W Bluemound Rd, Milwaukee, WI

Milwaukee County Zoo – A Wild Adventure in the ...

Featured

Now Open

Sheraton Milwaukee Brookfield Hotel

375 S Moorland Rd, Brookfield, WI 53005

Looking for a hotel near Milwaukee that blends ...

Facilities:

Featured

Now Closed

That’s Amore

5080 S 108th Street, Greenfield, WI 53228

Craving Italian food near Greenfield, WI? That’s ...

Featured

Now Open

Colectivo Coffee Humboldt Blvd.

2999 N. Humboldt BLVD., Milwaukee, WI, 53212

Our company began more than a quarter century ago ...

Check Out All Listings

Up-Coming Events

EVENTS IN WISCONSIN

Check out some Up-Coming Events

Saturday Tea Club / Guided Tea Service

Yahara Chocolate & Tea in Stoughton!

Sat, September 20, 2025 09:30 AM

Wake up your Saturday with something way cooler than coffee — the Saturday Tea Club at Yahara Chocolate & Tea in Stoughton! For just $10, you’ll sip your way through rare and exotic teas from around the world while host Brook guides you in the art of proper steeping, tasting, and tea history. Each session (9:30 AM on select Saturdays) is part cozy tasting, part cultural deep-dive, and part flavor adventure, with a bonus take-home sample so the experience doesn’t end when you leave. Whether you’re a tea newbie or a full-blown leaf nerd, this event promises a morning that’s equal parts relaxing and eye-opening — think of it as a world tour in your teacup. For more information: https://www.stoughtonwi.com/events/details/saturday-tea-club-guided-tea-service-09-20-2025-12283?memberSlug=yahara-chocolate

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First Annual Chef Gala

Jefferson Street Inn

Sat, November 15, 2025 04:45 PM

Wisconsin is sizzling with excitement as it hosts its First Annual Chef Gala on Saturday, November 15, 2025, at the Jefferson Street Inn in Wausau! This premier culinary event will showcase top chefs from across the state crafting exquisite dishes using locally sourced ingredients that highlight Wisconsin’s rich food heritage. Attendees can enjoy gourmet dining, live cooking demos, and the chance to mingle with culinary stars, all while supporting local producers and community causes. Perfect for seasoned foodies or anyone eager to explore the state’s vibrant culinary scene, the Chef Gala promises an unforgettable evening of flavor, fun, and foodie inspiration—don’t miss your chance to be part of this landmark event! For more information: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/first-annual-chef-gala-tickets-1611562239039?aff=ebdssbdestsearch

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37th Annual Lakeshore Holiday Parade

Downtown Manitowoc

Wed, November 26, 2025 06:30 PM

🎄✨ Kick off the holiday season at the 37th Annual Lakeshore Holiday Parade in downtown Manitowoc on Wednesday, November 26, 2025 at 6:30 PM! The parade lights up Washington and 8th Streets with festive floats, marching bands, and a visit from Santa himself. Families can enjoy a special sensory-friendly zone, plus free hot cocoa, cookies, and giveaways along the route. End the night at the Rahr-West Art Museum’s Christmas in the Mansion, where kids can meet Santa and explore dazzling holiday displays.

For more information: https://www.htrnews.com/story/entertainment/events/2025/09/04/heres-what-to-expect-at-manitowocs-holiday-parade-nov-26-2025/85953654007/?gnt-cfr=1&gca-cat=p&gca-uir=true&gca-epti=z117878p001650c001650e005600v117878b0078xxd117865&gca-ft=154&gca-ds=sophi

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Thanksgiving Bountiful Brunch

Pfister Hotel Milwaukee

Thu, November 27, 2025 11:00 AM

Trade your stretchy pants for something classy (but still stretchy) and head to The Pfister Hotel’s Thanksgiving Bountiful Brunch, where turkey day gets a glamorous glow-up. Picture mountains of seafood on ice, a Wisconsin cheese spread that could make a cow blush, and carving stations stacked with holiday favorites. Toss in bottomless brunch vibes, decadent desserts, and the Grand Ballroom dressed to the nines, and you’ve got yourself a Thanksgiving where the only thing stuffed fuller than the turkey… is you.

For more information: https://www.thepfisterhotel.com/happenings/thanksgiving-bountiful-brunch/

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Thanksgiving Feast at 1878

Lake Lawn Resort

Thu, November 27, 2025 11:00 AM

🍂 Gather the family and feast in style at Lake Lawn Resort’s Thanksgiving Feast at 1878 on the Lake in Delavan! On Thursday, November 27, 2025, from 11 AM to 7 PM, the resort transforms into a holiday haven with a lavish buffet overlooking beautiful Delavan Lake. Guests can indulge in chef-carved prime rib, roasted turkey with all the trimmings, fresh seafood displays, seasonal salads, and decadent desserts like pumpkin and pecan pie. With festive décor, cozy lakefront charm, and a menu designed to please both traditionalists and adventurous eaters, it’s a Thanksgiving celebration that blends Wisconsin hospitality with gourmet flair. Reservations are highly recommended for this unforgettable holiday experience. For more informaton: https://www.lakelawnresort.com/events/thanksgiving-feast-at-1878-on-the-lake/

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GamesGiving Expo!

Fountain Hall

Fri, November 28, 2025 09:00 AM

Guys Games and Beer and Racine County Eye are hosting an awesome event during Thanksgiving weekend.

• Geeky holiday shopping 🛍️

• Retro gaming tournaments 🎮

• Fun for all 💫

👾🕹️come celebrate, play, and shop local this Thanksgiving weekend!

Free Admission to Vendor Hall | Browse local makers, creators, and game-themed gifts at no cost

$10 Game Zone Pass | Unlock all-day access to thousands of square feet of gaming paradise.

GamesGiving Expo is Southeast Wisconsin's coziest gaming convention, bringing together video games, board games, tabletop adventures, retro toys, collectibles, and local artisan vendors—all under one roof during the Thanksgiving weekend.

WWW.GAMESGIVINGEXPO.COM

Three Ways to Experience GamesGiving

GEEKY - Shop Local, Gift Unique

Whether you're hunting for the perfect gift or treating yourself, you'll support local talent and small businesses while finding gifts as fun and unique as the people you're buying for. Discover handcrafted items, gaming collectibles, retro toys, and one-of-a-kind creations from Southeast Wisconsin's most talented artisans.

GAMEY - The Ultimate Play Zone

Step into gaming heaven! Hosted by the Guys Games and Beer crew, this premium gaming area features games of all types and generations—from retro classics and arcade cabinets to modern hits and indie gems. Whether you're a tabletop tactician, joystick junkie, or card-slinging strategist, there's something ready to play.

GIVEABLE - Support Your Community

Give back while you geek out. Visit our Community Spotlight area to connect with local nonprofits and purpose-driven organizations doing incredible work in Southeast Wisconsin. Learn more, donate, or simply stop by and show your support—because giving feels good.

Built by Gamers, for Gamers

GamesGiving Expo is proudly organized by passionate local community members and the seasoned crew behind Guys Games and Beer—veterans of the Midwest gaming scene with over 13 years of experience running unforgettable gaming events.

This isn't just another convention. We're assembling the best of what Southeast Wisconsin has to offer, from indie creators and game vendors to local talent and family-friendly fun. Built by gamers, for gamers—right here at home.

Community Partnership

GamesGiving Expo is proud to partner with Racine County Eye, a trusted local news source dedicated to highlighting the good in our community. With a mission to uplift meaningful stories, support impactful organizations, and connect residents to what truly matters, Racine County Eye brings heart to local journalism.

Together, we're celebrating games, giving, and the people who power our community.

LEARN MORE!

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Earth Vibe Festival

Viroqua

Thu, July 16, 2026 12:00 AM

Find your flow at the Earth Vibe Festival 2026, a four-day celebration of community, creativity, and conscious living happening July 16–19, 2026, near Viroqua, Wisconsin. Wake up with yoga and sound baths, explore herbalism and foraging workshops, and let your spirit play in art spaces like the Crystal Kids Artivity Tent. With uplifting music, mindful practices, and a sacred sober atmosphere, Earth Vibe feels less like a chaotic fest and more like a heart-centered retreat in nature. It’s the perfect summer gathering for anyone ready to recharge, reconnect, and dance barefoot under the stars. 🌿✨ For more information: https://www.earthvibefestival.com/

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Midsummer Festival of the Arts 2026

John Michael Kohler Arts Center and City Green

Mon, July 20, 2026 12:00 AM

Celebrate creativity under the summer sun at the Midsummer Festival of the Arts, happening July 20–21, 2026 at the John Michael Kohler Arts Center and City Green in Sheboygan! With over 100 talented artists showcasing everything from ceramics and fiber to woodwork and photography, this free festival transforms downtown into a colorful open-air gallery. Add in live music, hands-on art activities, food trucks, and even an emerging artist showcase, and you’ve got a weekend that’s equal parts inspiration, entertainment, and pure summer fun. It’s the perfect spot to stroll, snack, shop, and spark your inner artist! 🎨☀️

For more information: https://www.jmkac.org/engage/programs/midsummer-festival-of-the-arts/#:~:text=The%20fifty%2Dsixth%20Midsummer%20Festival,be%20sent%20April%201%2C%202026.

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