Experience Downtown Blog

Rainbow Summer in Full Bloom with Music and Art

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Looking for something fun, free and unforgettable to do this summer? Rainbow Summer is back and ready to blossom on the Marcus Performing Arts Center Outdoor Grounds, July 14-20. With towering flowers glowing under the Milwaukee night sky, free live tunes, vendor marketplaces, and family-friendly activities, it’s time to experience a summer tradition that brings the community together for joy, laughter and a not-to-be-missed Instagrammable photo op.

What is Rainbow Summer?
Like the colors of the rainbow, Rainbow Summer is an annual, seven-day, family-friendly event full of lively entertainment and artsy summer activities presented by the Marcus Performing Arts Center (MPAC) and Milwaukee Downtown, BID #21! The fun takes place on the Marcus Performing Arts Center Outdoor Grounds, 929 N. Water St., from Monday, July 14 through Sunday, July 20. Among the highlights is Amanda Parer’s “Lost” installation, which features large, impressive, and immersive botanicals providing guests the wonders of a fantasy land.

Artist Lineup
Monday, July 14 - Artist: Kids from Wisconsin | 7pm
The Kids From Wisconsin have created one of the best summer playlists for the season! Get ready to enjoy an evening filled with throwbacks, beachy tunes, and sun-drenched melodies!

Tuesday, July 15 - Artist: The Brass Queens | 7pm
Co-founded by Alex Harris and Ally Chapel, Brass Queens is a female-led brass band in New York City, known for their energetic street performances and shows! Delivering New Orleans brass with New York City flair, the Brass Queens’s buoyant tunes are something you don’t want to miss!

Wednesday, July 16 - Artist: Digable Planets | 7pm
Digable Planets have burst onto the music scene with their unique style of jazz-informed Hip Hop sound. With over 30 years of creating music, come experience a live show with Digable Planets as they continue to shine through their complex rhythms that touch their audiences with their melodies!

Thursday, July 17 - Artist: Chicago Latin Groove | 7pm
Known for bringing the ultimate fusion of energy, rhythm, and passion to their stages, Chicago Latin Groove ignites the crowd with irresistible music! If you're looking for an electrifying, high-energy musical kind of night, Chicago Latin Groove is the one for you!

Friday, July 18 - Artist: Fool House - The Ultimate ‘90s Party | 7pm
Who’s excited for a 90s throwback extravaganza?!? From sing-along anthems to party classics, Fool House is ready to bring you the Ultimate ‘90s Party that will keep you dancing all night long! Grab your 90s music lover crew, dance moves, and gear up for a blast of fun!

Saturday, July 19 - Family Day: 4Stomp Circus: What’s Next and Kid Boogie Down: Taylor Swift Dance Party | 3:15pm, 4pm, 7pm
Family Day at Rainbow Summer features TWO exciting performances all afternoon long! Featuring 4Stomp: What's Next? and Kid Boogie Down: Taylor Swift Dance Party, experience a bustling Saturday summer of colorful live music, movement, and family-friendly fun!

• 4Stomp: What's Next? | 3:15pm | 7pm
• Kid Boogie Down Taylor Swift Dance Party | 4pm

Sunday, July 20 - Artist: Milwaukee Police Band | 2pm
Being the oldest police band in the nation, the Milwaukee Police Band serves the community by providing music, education and goodwill, while preserving the historical importance of the band in the City of Milwaukee. Composed of volunteer civilians and police members, it's time to soak in the big brass sounds of the Milwaukee Police Band!

Activities
Experience all-day FUN with “Lost” by Amanda Parer, giant lawn games, a colorful piano and food truck vendors throughout ALL seven days!
Lost - Inflation Schedule:

• Monday 7/14, 4-9pm
• Tuesday - Friday 7/15 to 7/18, 2-9pm
• Saturday 7/19, 12-9pm
• Sunday 7/20, 11am-4pm 

For more information on Rainbow Summer, visit www.marcuscenter.org/get-tickets/rainbow-summer/.