Back to the 80s: The First Wave

Every Thursday (except July 2, 9 & 16) evening from June through September, Cathedral Square Park comes alive with free live music in the heart of downtown Milwaukee. At its core a jazz series, Jazz in the Park has grown to celebrate a wide range of genres — from salsa and swing to blues, funk, tribute nights, and fan favorites that get you moving.

New in 2026, Jazz in the Park will be preceded each Thursday by Cathedral Square Market, beginning at 3 p.m., creating an extended evening of community, food, and entertainment in the heart of downtown Milwaukee.

2026 Jazz in the Park Schedule

June 4: Salsa in the Park: Junior Rivera y su Orquesta featuring Salsabrositas MKE

June 11: Divas Take the Stage: B.D. Greer Presents: Divas & Jazz

June 18: Long Live the Queen: Respect! A Tribute to The Queen of Soul

June 25: Dirt Roads & Dive Bars: Driveway Thriftdwellers

July 23: Back to the 80s: The First Wave

July 30: Midnight in Chicago: Ivy Ford Band

August 6: Swing Into Summer: Old Sam and the Teardrops featuring Lindy Hop MKE

August 13: Dead on the Square: Deadelijk

August 20: Dance Floor Takeover: Platinum

August 27: New York State of Mind: 52nd Street: The Music of Billy Joel

September 3: Smooth Sailing: Whole Yachta Love

September 10: All Aboard the Dark Side: Goth Barge

Jazz in the Park and Cathedral Square Market are both free and open to the public. The market runs Thursdays beginning at 3 p.m. and the performers take the stage at 6 p.m, all at Cathedral Square Park, 520 E. Wells St. in downtown Milwaukee. For more information, visit easttown.com