Near West Side Week will officially kick off with an unforgettable day of music, art, and community at The New State Music Park on September 8th from noon - 4 p.m.! This outdoor event will feature good food, live music, performances by local artists, and art displayed around the space. Talented youth artists will kick off the afternoon with a captivating performance from Your Move Milwaukee Hip Hop Chess Club. Throughout the event, you’ll be able to experience the diverse cultural showcase with the Next Narrative Monologue Competition hosted by Milwaukee Rep, and chill to Latin jazz rhythms of Mitch Shiner Latin Vibes, featuring the incredible Flamenco dancer Kerensa DeMars. You can also see the Unique Classic Car Show which will run all day, providing a spectacular backdrop for the array of performances and activities. Hear Kavon Jones’ poetry flow throughout the day, and rock out into the afternoon with the eclectic sounds of Sandwich the Band. Art enthusiasts will delight in hands-on projects from Vibez Creative Arts Space and the live creations of en plein air artists sponsored by the Community Art & Funk Festival. Don't miss this vibrant celebration of local talent and creativity, perfect for all ages. See you there!

How much do you know about your neighborhood? Each day during Near West Side Week, participants will have the opportunity to answer Near West Side trivia questions for a chance to win a gift card to a local Near West Side business. Participants can text NWSWEEK to 414-677-3300 to get daily question prompts. A new question will be added each day at 9:00 a.m., so you can text each day to test your knowledge about the Near West Side, and increase your chances of winning!