Hoancoming 2025: Milwaukee's Ultimate Lakefront Celebration

Picture this: hundreds of boats gliding across Lake Michigan in perfect formation, the iconic Hoan Bridge glowing against the evening sky, and a spectacular drone show choreographed to music that'll give you goosebumps. Welcome to Hoancoming 2025 – Milwaukee's fresh coast party on Thursday, September 18.

After the success of 2024's inaugural event, the Hoan Group is back with an even bigger celebration of everything that makes Milwaukee special. Whether you're a seasoned sailor, a kayaking enthusiast, or prefer to keep your feet on dry land, there's a perfect spot waiting for you.

If you’re interested in attending? Submit RSVP

Event Timeline

• 6:00 PM - Boat Parade begins at Sail Loft

• 7:45 PM - Hoan Bridge Light Show & Drone Show

• 8:00 PM - Official Afterparty at Boone & Crockett

On Water - Boat Parade & Viewing

Join the Boat Parade (FREE)

Route: Start at Sail Loft → West side of Hoan Bridge → Lakefront → Return to Hoan Bridge for premium drone show viewing

Small Boat Viewing Area 📍 Map Location #5

Presented by Gateway Capital, Zizzo Group, and Hoan Group

• Location: West of Hoan Bridge

• Best for: Smaller boats

• Perks: Front-row seat to the show

• Audio: Download 88.9 Radio Milwaukee app for synced music

Large Boat & Sailboat Viewing Area 📍 Map Location #6

Presented by UW Credit Union

• Location: East of Hoan Bridge

• Best for: Larger boats and sailboats

• Perks: Premium viewing position

• Audio: Download 88.9 Radio Milwaukee app for synced music

Kayak Experience 📍 Map Location #7

Presented by Milwaukee Kayak Co.

• Meet: 5:00 PM at MKE Kayak Co.

• Experience: Guided paddle to The Bridgewater → Live music with Funktoon → Depart 7:00 PM for drone show viewing

• Status: Coming Soon

ON LAND - Viewing Areas

Family Friendly Area 📍 Map Location #3

Milwaukee County Boat Launch | Presented by Majic Productions

• Perfect for: Families with children

• Features: Safe, welcoming environment with streamed 88.9 Radio Milwaukee audio

• Bring: Blankets or chairs

• Cost: FREE with RSVP

Terrace Experience 📍 Map Location #2

Milwaukee Pierhead Lighthouse | Presented by UW Credit Union & Wisconsin Union

• Time: 6:00-8:00 PM

• Features:

  • Memorial Union Terrace-style setup

  • Brats and beverages

  • Famous sunburst chairs

  • Live music by DJ LoLo

  • UW Marching Band performance

• Cost: FREE with RSVP

Official Afterparty Location 📍 Map Location #4

Boone & Crockett | Presented by Badger Liquor

• Pre-Party: 6:00-8:00 PM live music

• Afterparty: 8:00-10:00 PM with DJ E-Rich

• Features: Live music and video projections

Lakeshore State Park 📍 Map Location #1

• Type: Self-guided viewing (not official activation site)

• Perks: One of the best views of drone/light show

• Bring: Blankets or chairs

• Audio: Download 88.9 Radio Milwaukee app

A Night of Hope - MACC Fund Cruise 🎗️

Supporting childhood cancer research

• Boat: Edelweiss

• Features: Dinner, 2 complimentary drinks, live music by Joe Wray

• Special: Bridge glows gold for childhood cancer awareness

• Fundraising: Supporting $87M+ in research since 1976

Essential Downloads

88.9 Radio Milwaukee App - Required for synchronized audio experience during light show

Quick Tips

• Boat parade admission is completely FREE

• Select viewing area based on your boat size

• Download radio app before arriving

• Bring blankets/chairs for land viewing

• Family-friendly options available

• After-party runs until 10:00 PM