5 Things for Spring in MKE
I feel the spring fever! Who am I kidding? it’s only early March so we’re most likely due for another snow storm, but just as it does every year, spring will make a slow appearance sometime between the end of March and May.
But as this current batch of snow is melting, I can’t help myself from starting to look (desperately) for more signs of spring. The first whiff of warm fresh air sends me into overdrive, just like the way carbs do to my brain. I’ve started spring cleaning a bit, purging, reorganizing my closet to anticipate what I might need, apparel-wise, for the warmer days ahead. Heck, I’ve even already bought Easter candy and starting packing for spring break. This is a new level of anticipation of course because we are approaching the one-year anniversary of the Coronavirus pandemic and stay-at-home order.
With vaccinations happening and virus fatigue at an all-time high, this spring may turn out to be okay after all. Here are five signs of spring I’m looking out for here in Milwaukee.
Spring training - Baseball is beginning! I’m not a huge sports fan, but I love the social experience of visiting a ball park, tailgating and witnessing American’s past time. Miller Park has officially been re-named to American Family field and the highway signage has even been changed. There won’t be tailgating this year, but the season will begin April 1 with a 25 percent capacity in the stadium. Better than nothing!
Bikes and hikes - I took a hike last weekend at Lakeshore state Park - the tiny island that juts out behind the Summerfest ground and it was packed. The entire Lakefront is starting to come alive and it’s so exciting to see the hoards of people emerging from their homes and enjoying the natural beauty that surrounds our city. There are just as many bikers as there were hikers. Get those wheels tuned up now.
Milwaukee Day 4/14 - There is very special holiday on the horizon, that falls in the spring every year on 4/14 (named for Milwaukee’s area code 414). Milwaukee Day is dedicated to celebrating all that make Milwaukee great. Start making your plans now for how you’'ll celebrate.
Kites in the sky - Did you know that Veteran’s Park is one of the top kite-flying destinations in the country because of the way the wind comes off the lake? Bring your own, or pick up a kite and some flying tips at the Gift of Wings shop right in the park. I promise, it’ll make you feel like a kid again.
St. Patrick’s Day - Because we are city that like its beer, it’s not uncommon to see groups of drunken adults spilling out of bars all day and night on this festive March holiday. Due to capacity restrictions, celebrations will be smaller and more spread out, but not necessarily more tame. Sadly, the beloved St. Patrick’s Day Parade downtown is postponed until September (a little strange if you ask me, but again, better than nothing!)
I must mention, another one of my favorite spring activities in Milwaukee is Art in Bloom at the Milwaukee Art Museum. Sadly, it’s been cancelled this year, but the museum has re-opened Friday-Sunday. Reserve your timed ticket to avoid crowds and look for your own signs of spring outside with the incredible views of the Lakefront from the Windhover Hall. Of course the artwork is pretty incredible too.
