This ceremonial switch-flipping comes packed with live music, holiday entertainment, a visit from Santa and a dynamic fireworks show. Free hot cocoa, coffee and cookies will keep guests toasty all night. After the unveiling of downtown’s park and street-level décor, attendees can hop aboard the Jingle Bus, free on kick-off night, to take in the panorama.

Holiday Folk Fair International will be held Fri., Nov. 18 – Sun., Nov. 20, 2016 at the State Fair Park Exposition Center in West Allis, Wis. A program of the International Institute of Wisconsin, Holiday Folk Fair International celebrates the cultural heritage of the people living in southeastern Wisconsin. This year’s theme, “Celebrate the Culture of the Water,” will allow Fair-goers the opportunity to learn the ways in which water and its symbolism is incorporated into the music, food, dance, art, and crafts of those that participate in Folk Fair. Special attractions in 2016 include invited international performers and artisans, a Japanese photographic exhibit, the Sisters Cities International 2016 Young Artist and Authors Showcase, the Artisan corner sponsored by Debra Stefl and Katherine Kral, Financial Advisors with Morgan Stanley, the Kohl’s Color Wheels display, the Wisconsin Woodturners, and a bonsai exhibit. The three-day event features the All Nations Theater with traditional music and dance, the World Café offering traditional dishes, the International Stage where young people perform their ethnic dances, the Tanzhauz (Music Pavilion) where attendees dance and sing along with a variety of musical styling’s, the Coffee House where patrons enjoy a beverage and baked goods while listening to talented musicians, Heritage Lane, presented by Weather Tight Corporation, with unique traditions and customs through interactive exhibits, the International Bazaar, sponsored by Leaf Filter, where cultural artifacts create a unique shopping experience, and the Callen Construction Chef’s Stage featuring local chefs preparing traditional cuisine. Hours on Fri., Nov. 18 are 2 p.m. – 10 p.m.; 10 a.m. – 10 p.m. on Sat., Nov. 19; and 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. on Sun., Nov. 20. Advance tickets will be sold for $10 each, with family four-packs for $36, and available for purchase on-line at www.folkfair.org. Admission at the gate will be $12 for adults; $8 for children ages 6 to 12; children under the age of five will be admitted at no charge. Those 62 and over will be admitted for $10, and all military personnel with a military ID card will be admitted free. For more information on the 2016 Holiday Folk Fair International, visit www.folkfair.org or call the International Institute of Wisconsin at 414-225-6225.

Graduating seniors in the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee Peck School of the Arts Photography program are proud to present Residue, an exhibition that showcases the thesis work of five emerging artists. This show is the culmination of a year dedicated to the development of a strong studio practice and focused research, and celebrates the unique stylistic and conceptual voice of each student. Featured Artists: Katy DeZellar Marisa Hellen Samantha Lonergan Sandy Manikowski Mimi Yang

Milwaukee author Mary J. Dowell will be visiting the Boswell Book Company for a book signing on Friday, November 18th at 7:00 pm. She will discuss and read from her new book, Playing Through the Fence: Stories from 19 Women Who Challenged Stereotypes, Prejudice and Other Barriers to Achieve Career Success. Part memoir, part self-help, Playing Through the Fence is a collection of powerful reflections from women who challenged and overcame obstacles in their personal and professional lives. Within the author’s framework of leadership concepts such as mentoring, networking and family support, women of different backgrounds, race and sexual orientation share their inspirational stories of triumph over the barriers in their paths. A metaphor for these barriers, “The Fence” is part of a story from the author’s childhood and represents the crossroads where struggle meets opportunity. The stories shared by these women illustrate the power of perseverance and choosing the path of opportunity—reminding us that we are not alone and that success, though sometimes appearing elusive, is always within reach. Playing Through the Fence is available at Boswell and through Amazon and HenshelHAUS Publishing. This event is free and open to the public. About the Author: Mary J. Dowell is the principal of MJ Dowell & Associates, a management-consulting group promoting employee engagement and personal and professional growth through speaking events and workshops. After 20 years as a community relations and human resources executive in Fortune 100 & 500 organizations, Mary is an active member of Milwaukee’s business and philanthropic communities. She serves on the board of many organizations, including those focused on the advancement of women leaders, and has received numerous awards for her work. For information about speaking engagements and other services by MJ Dowell & Associates, please visit www.mjdowell.com.

After 20 years of unwedded bliss, Georges and Albin prepare to meet the straight-laced parents of the fiancée of Georges’ son. It’s a hilarious night of complications, chaos and a tender triumph of love. This comedic and heartfelt Tony Award winner features music and lyrics by Jerry Herman, composer of Broadway hits Hello, Dolly! and Mame. “It’s a family show, a glittering, fast stepping extravaganza.” - New York Daily News on 2010 Broadway Revival Winner of multiple Tony Awards, including Best Musical (1984) and Best Revival of a Musical (2005, 2010) Recommended for ages 12 and up.

We’re thrilled to present one of the top African American dance companies on November 18. Step Afrika! performances are more than dance shows; they integrate songs, storytelling, humor, and audience participation. The blend of technique, agility, and pure energy makes each performance unique and appeals to all ages and cultures.

The 16th annual Around The World 5K Run/Walk, benefiting The Salvation Army of Milwaukee County, will be held Sat., Nov. 19, at 9:00 a.m. as part of the 73rd annual Holiday Folk Fair International, America’s premiere multi-cultural festival. Starting and finishing near the Wisconsin Exposition Center at State Fair Park, 8200 W. Greenfield Ave. in West Allis, a portion of the race proceeds will support the Salvation Army’s Homeless Children's Program, while the balance will be used to provide educational opportunities to help children take pride in their own cultures while developing respect and tolerance for other cultures through the International Institute of Wisconsin. Conducted on a fast and flat course that caters to both runners and walkers, the USATF Certified 5K race that is professionally chip timed has an “early-bird” registration fee of $20 available through Fri., Sept. 30. The pre-registration fee of $25.00 is available until Fri., Nov. 18, or the fee is $30.00 day of race. The registration package includes a long-sleeve T-shirt, light refreshments, and free Holiday Folk Fair International admission. Online registration is at www.folkfair.org, or call the Holiday Folk Fair International at 414-225-6225. Parking is available on the State Fair Park grounds for $5. There is free street parking available nearby. Awards will be given to top teams and the top male and female runners in each age division: 14 – 17; 18 – 24; 25 – 29; 30 – 34; 35 – 39; 40 – 44; 45 – 49; 50 – 54; 55 – 59; 60 – 64; 65 – 69; 70 – 74; 75 – 79; and 80+. Due to course conditions, roller skates and rollerblades are not allowed, and due to insurance regulations, headphones are prohibited. Holiday Folk Fair International will be held Fri., Nov. 18 – Sun., Nov. 20, 2016 at the State Fair Park Exposition Center at in West Allis, Wis. A program of the International Institute of Wisconsin, Holiday Folk Fair International celebrates the cultural heritage of the people living in southeastern Wisconsin. This year’s theme, “Celebrate the Culture of the Water,” will allow Fair-goers the opportunity to learn the ways in which water and its symbolism is incorporated into the music, food, dance, art, and crafts of those that participate in Folk Fair. Special attractions in 2016 include invited international performers and artisans, a Japanese photographic exhibit, the Sisters Cities International 2016 Young Artist and Authors Showcase, the Artisan corner sponsored by Debra Stefl and Katherine Kral, Financial Advisors with Morgan Stanley, the Kohl’s Color Wheels display, the Wisconsin Woodturners, and a bonsai exhibit. The three-day event features the All Nations Theater with traditional music and dance, the World Café offering traditional dishes, the International Stage where young people perform their ethnic dances, the Tanzhauz (Music Pavilion) where attendees dance and sing along with a variety of musical styling’s, the Coffee House where patrons enjoy a beverage and baked goods while listening to talented musicians, Heritage Lane, presented by Weather Tight Corporation, with unique traditions and customs…