KENOSHA, Wis. – Public Brewing Company is preparing to bring back one of downtown Kenosha’s biggest celebrations this weekend, as the popular Block Party returns for its ninth year.
The event runs from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 4, along 7th Avenue between 57th and 58th Streets. Organizers say the free, family-friendly festival will showcase live music, local food, craft beer, and activities designed to draw out the entire community.
Public Brewing founder Matt Geary first hosted the block party in 2016 outside the brewery’s former 58th Street taproom as the finale to Kenosha Craft Beer Week. When Public expanded into the historic Barden’s Department Store in 2019, the larger space allowed the festival to grow into a full-scale street event.
“It’s been such a fantastic summer of events with Kenoshans really showing up to have fun and support local,” Geary said. “Last year we had to simplify things, so we’re really excited to bring back the full-scale version of our Block Party with all the food, drinks, and live music everyone has come to expect.”
Six local music acts are scheduled to perform throughout the day:
- Lumphead at 1 p.m.
- Moonchild at 2:30 p.m.
- The 3D Four at 4 p.m.
- Emmitt James at 5:30 p.m.
- Jodybeats at 7 p.m.
- Spirit Shakers at 8:30 p.m.
In addition to food from Public’s kitchen and several food trucks, the event will offer beer, cocktails, Bloody Marys, and non-alcoholic beverages. A vendor market will line the street, while attractions such as axe throwing, a bounce-house obstacle course, and the Hot Mess Studios Art Bus will provide entertainment for all ages. The art bus will feature afternoon activities as well as a black-light showcase after dark.
Rex Kelly, Public’s general manager, said the goal has always been to highlight Kenosha’s creative and entrepreneurial energy.
“It’s always exciting to bring the community together to celebrate some of Kenosha’s best local vendors, businesses, and talents,” Kelly said. “Doing it over good food, quality drinks, and amazing live music is the cherry on top.”
The event is free to attend, with food and drinks available for purchase.
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