Annual Events
Every year, Milwaukee Public Schools (MPS) hosts special events. From the Battle of the Drumlines to the Biennial Music Festival and beyond, we love showing off what we're learning.
Stay up to date with district events by subscribing to our "Family Friday" newsletter below.
Battle of the Drumlines
Save the Date: December 13, 2025
12 to 3 p.m. | Rufus King International High School | $3 admission (cash only)
Students at more than a dozen MPS middle schools and high schools can participate in drumlines. Their high-energy, synchronized performances are showcased at Battle of the Drumlines, the annual MPS event that crowns the all-city champion. The event is open to the public and attended by hundreds of people each year.
Cantos de las américas
Save the Date: April 24, 2026
6:30 to 8 p.m. | No public admission, families must get tickets from their schools
Each year, the Cantos de las américas showcase features music, dance and songs performed by students from across the district featuring a variety of world cultures. 15 schools come together to celebrate languages and traditions from the Americas. This event is live streamed.
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Art Contest
Save the Date: January 19, 2026
Marcus Performing Arts Center | FREE
Every year, MPS celebrates the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The art contest is open to students from K4 through grade 12 who live in (or are enrolled in a school in) the city of Milwaukee. The annual theme is based on Dr. King’s speeches or writings, and winners are showcased at the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. birthday celebration.
Black Lives Matter Week of Action
Save the Date: February 2–6, 2026
Multiple locations | FREE
This is a call to remember that we are part of a global Black family, united in the ongoing struggle for education, justice, and liberation. This annual week of activities creates space for reflection, learning, and authentic connection. Together, we can honor our shared commitment to build communities grounded in love, interdependence, and collective care.
WSMA Solo and Ensemble Contest
Save the Date: February 28, 2026
8 a.m. to 4 p.m. | Milwaukee High School of the Arts | FREE
Middle and high school students prepare vocal or instrumental solos, duets, trios, or small ensembles to perform before an adjudicator. This event will feature more than 600 MPS students and is free and open to the public.
Refugee and Immigrant Resource Fair
Save the Date: April 25, 2026
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. | South Division High School | FREE
At the 7th annual Refugee and Immigrant Resource Fair, families can celebrate traditions together and receive free information and giveaways from community providers.
Biennial Music Festival
Save the Date: May 6 and 7, 2026
6:30 p.m. | UW–Milwaukee Panther Arena | FREE
This festival is a celebration of music in MPS. Held every other year since 1924, the MPS Biennial Music Festival features drumline, world drumming, band, orchestra, choir, modern band, and a trumpet ensemble. More than 3,500 young musicians perform for friends and family at this free event, which is open to the public.
STEAM Fair
Save the Date: May 21, 2026
10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. | Harold S. Vincent School of Agricultural Sciences | FREE
See student creativity and innovation in action at the 19th annual MPS STEAM Fair. This event brings together hundreds of students of all ages from over 50 MPS schools. The best STEAM projects from throughout the district will be on display, focusing on science inquiry and engineering design.