Bronzeville Week begins Saturday. Here’s a rundown of events.
Bronzeville Week, an annual event that celebrates the historically African American Milwaukee neighborhood, will take place Saturday through Aug. 14 this year.
“Bronzeville Week is a celebration of culture, arts, entertainment and the rich history of both the Bronzeville District and African American community,” Alderwoman Milele Coggs said about the event last year. “This week has become a truly enjoyable and enriching August tradition in Milwaukee.”
With cases of COVID-19 rising as a result of the delta variant, the CDC recommends that everyone, even those who are vaccinated, wear masks at indoor events. For those who are not vaccinated, or who have underlying conditions that put them at increased risk, masks should also be worn at crowded outdoor events.
There are several events — both virtual and in-person — planned for this year’s Bronzeville Week. Here are just a few. Check the Bronzeville Week Facebook page for updates as new events are added.
Events focused on health
HaRUNbee 5K Walk/Run for Healthy Birth Outcomes: The race will start at King Drive and North Avenue on Saturday, Aug. 7, at 8:30 a.m. Registration is at 7 a.m., and there are also virtual race options.
Well Mommy & Baby Care Package Drive Up: Pregnant moms and mothers of newborns who have preregistered can pick up care items at Mount Zion Baptist Church, 2207 N. Second St., on Saturday, Aug. 7, from 1 to 3 p.m.
Luau Lullaby Community Baby Shower: There will be health resources and entertainment at the MLK Heritage Center, 2555 N. King Drive, on Friday, Aug. 13, at 4 p.m.
Events focused on food
Brunch in Bronzeville: Several restaurants on King Drive will be open for brunch. On Saturday, Aug. 7, On the Bayou, Mi Casa Su Casa and SkyBox Sports Bar will participate from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. On Sunday, Aug. 8, Mi Casa Su Casa, SkyBox Sports Bar and Rise & Grind Cafe will participate from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Bronzeville Black Friday Music & Marketplace: There will be food, live music and vendors on King Drive between Locust and Walnut streets on Saturday, Aug. 14, from noon to 5 p.m.
Events focused on the arts
“The Heartland” screening: The short film by Milwaukee filmmaker Marquise Mays, “capturing a visual love letter to the city of Milwaukee from the Black kids who love it more than it loves them,” will be shown at the Milwaukee Youth Symphony Orchestra/Milwaukee Youth Arts Center, 325 W. Walnut St., on Thursday, Aug. 12, at 6 p.m.
Bronzeville Art Walk: Artists will showcase their work on King Drive from Locust to Walnut streets on Saturday, Aug. 14, from noon to 5 p.m.
Virtual events
She Slangs Wood: Local woodworker Tonda Thompson, will host a virtual class via Facebook Live to “empower women and young girls” sharing the basics of woodworking on Sunday, Aug. 8, from 2 to 3 p.m.
The History of Bronzevilles Across the Country: This virtual discussion, in partnership with America’s Black Holocaust Museum, will be on Facebook Live on Monday, Aug. 9, from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.
Around the World with Donna Washington: Storytelling “superstar” Donna Washington will visit the Milwaukee Public Library to tell stories from around the world via Zoom on Wednesday, Aug. 11, at 2 p.m.