Halloween may bring its fair share of tricks and treats, but Visit Milwaukee is celebrating the season with something even sweeter. The team has been busy with local celebrations, national tradeshows, and exciting new developments around the city. Here is a look at what has been happening across Milwaukee and what is coming next.

To kick off the month, Visit Milwaukee honored a true local icon, Henry Winkler, the beloved actor who brought Arthur Fonzarelli to life on Happy Days. The milestone 80th birthday celebration along the Milwaukee RiverWalk featured giveaways, prizes, and plenty of Milwaukee-style fun.

As part of the festivities, Visit Milwaukee launched the Ultimate Bronze Fonz Getaway, giving fans a chance to “spend a weekend in Milwaukee like Fonzie.” The prize package includes a two-night stay at Dubbel Dutch Hotel, a Harley-Davidson leather jacket, and a flight, capturing the city’s cool and creative spirit. Entries are open through November 7.

Earlier this month, the Visit Milwaukee team brought the city’s hometown energy to IMEX America in Las Vegas. The tradeshow tailgate activation featured Ask LeRoy, the AI-powered avatar of Packers legend LeRoy Butler.

The booth experience showcased how Milwaukee blends innovation, hospitality, and local flavor for unforgettable meetings and events. From craft beverages to interactive storytelling, Milwaukee’s booth gave planners a taste of what makes the Good Land a standout destination.

Building on the buzz of Top Chef: Wisconsin, Visit Milwaukee unveiled Milwaukee Flavor: The Cookbook, a culinary celebration of the city’s diverse and dynamic dining scene. The collection features more than 90 recipes from over 55 local chefs, ranging from beloved classics to bold, inventive dishes that capture Milwaukee’s creative energy.

Another highlight will be the Milwaukee Flavor: Chef Talk at Boswell Book Company on Nov. 17 at 6:30 p.m. The free event will feature a four-chef panel moderated by Boswell’s Daniel Goldin. Panelists include Karen Bell of Bavette La Boucherie, Arielle Hawthorne of Twisted Plants, Stephanie Kegel of Kegel’s Inn and Tony Kora of Rice n Roll Bistro and Wauwatosa’s KIN by Rice n Roll. The discussion will be followed by a book signing. Capacity is limited to 250 guests and seating will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. 

Milwaukee’s live entertainment scene is preparing for its next big act. The new Landmark Credit Union Live venue, part of the FPC Live family, is on track to open in February 2026 on the south end of Deer District.

With space for 4,500 attendees, the venue has already announced an exciting lineup of performers including Rainbow Kitten Surprise, Bossman Dlow, Sabaton, Zingara, Maria The Scientist, and Puscifer. This highly anticipated addition will strengthen Milwaukee’s position as a premier destination for live events and entertainment.

Just steps from the new venue site, the Deer District continues to pulse with excitement as the Milwaukee Bucks begin a fresh NBA season. Following their 2024 NBA Cup championship win, the team, led by two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo, has its sights set on another title.

Beyond basketball, Deer District has evolved into one of downtown Milwaukee’s most vibrant entertainment hubs. From the Beer Garden with its massive outdoor screen to local favorites like Drink Wisconsinbly, The New Fashioned, and the brand-new Tom’s Watch Bar, the area offers countless ways for groups and attendees to dine, cheer, and experience the city’s spirited culture.

The Visit Milwaukee sales team continues to hit the road, connecting with planners and industry partners nationwide to showcase Milwaukee’s meetings and convention potential.

Upcoming appearances include:

• WSAE Annual Summit, Milwaukee – November 5–6

• Madison Sales Mission, Madison – November 6

• Destinations Wisconsin Fall Tourism Conference, Madison – November 6–7

• NTA Travel Exchange, Ottawa, Canada – November 9–12

• West Coast Sales Mission – November 10–12

• PCMA-GMC Bowl Bash and Fashion Show, Chicago – November 12

• National Coalition of Black Meeting Planners, Portland, OR – November 19–22

The team looks forward to connecting with planners across the country and welcoming even more events to the Good Land.