MILWAUKEE – Center Street, one of my favorite childhood street festivals, Center Street Daze, is happening this weekend.
I spoke with a few organizers who said they work hard to get everything right for the event. One business owner mentioned that events like this help his business grow, and a neighbor said he wouldn’t miss Center Street Daze for the world.
Ruth Weil, one of the organizers, described the festival as “eclectic, vibrant, quirky and creative.” Sarah Sutterfield, another organizer, added that it was “artistic, fun and kind of crazy.”
Ruth and Sarah are instrumental in planning Center Street Daze, which began as a street festival in 1997 and has since grown into one of the largest street festivals in Milwaukee.
“We have over 100 vendors, so you can buy jewelry, art, food, T-shirts and all kinds of cool stuff,” said Ruth Weil.
Sarah Sutterfield noted, “You see a little bit of everything in terms of the different food trucks, the countries, cultures and ethnicities represented, as well as people who are queer and straight.”
The Daily Bird Coffee Shop on Center Street is bustling with excitement for Saturday’s festivities. Dan, the Daily Bird’s owner, said, “There is so much creativity in this neighborhood, it’s unbelievable.”
He added that it’s a great opportunity for local businesses every year. “Any increase in employees and sales is great for small businesses; we’re happy to see that,” he said.
With a morning go-kart race, four music stages, a kids’ zone and new shops on the block, neighbors want everyone to experience what Riverwest has to offer.
Watch: Milwaukee’s Center Street Daze Festival Returns This Weekend
Milwaukee’s Center Street Daze Festival Returns This Weekend
Byron Thompson, a local resident, shared his enthusiasm: “When I come here, I really feel a sense of community. I just find that it’s always a peaceful day. I always say I’m going to stop at Center Street Daze, then I meet everyone and before you know it, I’m here for hours.”
The festival begins on Saturday at 11 a.m. between Holton and Humboldt.
“Come with the right attitude!” encouraged Sarah Sutterfield.
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