What began as a small, pandemic-era gathering has evolved into one of Bay View’s most anticipated summer traditions. From humble beginnings featuring just eight artists, a single food truck, and a flatbed truck stage, the Rock Party Block Party has grown into a full-fledged street celebration — and a strong contender for the title of Bay View’s premier midsummer shindig.

THE MUSIC LINEUP

Contraptions
DIY punk at its finest. With influences like The Descendants and The Leaving Trains, this four-piece delivers trance-inducing instrumental sections punched with vocal blasts of attitude, sarcasm, and raw energy. Don’t let the name fool you — Contraptions are the real deal.

The Bronswik Affair
Melodic, cathartic, and high-octane, The Bronswik Affair serves up a potent mix of power pop, British Invasion melodies, and indie rock swagger. Catchy hooks and soaring choruses make this band a perfect soundtrack for summer nights.

Two and a Half Stars
Crunchy, catchy, clever — and impossible to ignore. Their surfy, trippy, fuzz-drenched sound pairs perfectly with their dynamic live energy.

Louie & the Flashbombs
Fronted by local legends Louie Lucchesi and Mike Benign, this all-star sextet brings decades of musical chemistry to life. With expertly crafted songs and a veteran lineup including Paul Biemann, Bo Conlon, Al Hildenbrand, and Matt Meixner, their performance is sure to be unforgettable.

The Truck
Part punk, part blues, part country, and all grit — The Truck cranks out Rust Belt anthems with steel guitar firepower . Featuring renowned pedal steel player Jeff Hamilton,

The Dirty Sweet
Fusing the swagger of The Replacements with the melodic mastery of Cheap Trick, The Dirty Sweet delivers hard-hitting anthems soaked in love, late nights, and rock ‘n roll. This is Americana-infused power pop at its most infectious.

Buzz from WMSE’s Buzz’s Garage will be spinning vinyl between sets — curating a mix of snarling punk, greasy rockers, and outsider hits from his personal crate of raunchy gems. It’s not just a playlist, it’s a party.

THE ARTISTS: PUNK ROCK RUMMAGE SALE

Curated by Wendy Norton, the Punk Rock Rummage Sale is a centerpiece of the block party — a creative bazaar featuring over 20+ local vendors offering everything from vinyl records to handcrafted curiosities. Expect vintage apparel, oddities, jewelry, dark art, crochet, witchy wares, and one-of-a-kind pieces.

Vendor Highlights Include:

• Luv Unlimited – Vintage & eclectic finds
• Ripple Records – Vinyl records
• Kitten Crochet – Handmade crochet goods
• The Arcane Aesthetic – Dark décor + spiritual vibes
• Grimore Girls Coven – Witchy crafts
• Ultratwist Vintage – Retro fashion
• Luminary Bones Jewelry – Handmade adornments
• Blackest Night Candles – Gothic-inspired scents
• …and many more!

Keith Drea of Man Cave Productions will also showcase a trove of novelty signs, B-movie posters, burlesque prints, classic film stars, and more collectible treasures.

FOOD & DRINKS

A feast of flavors awaits! Enjoy diverse offerings from top Milwaukee food trucks:

• Ventura’s Taco Truck – Legendary pastor tacos, enchiladas, elote, and more
• Caravan One and One – Gourmet paninis, fresh wraps, yogurt bowls, and fruit drinks
• Sweet Smoke Barbecue – Texas-style brisket, ribs, pulled pork, and authentic sides

Inside and out, Puddler’s Hall will be serving up Puddler’s Party Pizza, a full bar, and cold beer — with an outdoor bar set up for the occasion.