Milwaukee is set to become the loudest — and maybe the most lively — city in the Midwest this July. From July 10–13, 2025, the Harley-Davidson Homecoming Festival returns to its home in Milwaukee with four days of concerts, motorcycle culture, and local flavor that stretch across the city, from the lakeshore to Harley’s historic headquarters.
This year’s festival kicks off with a free concert headlined by Buckcherry at the Harley-Davidson Museum on July 10. Then, two massive nights of live music take over Veterans Park on the lakefront, where country legend Hank Williams Jr. (July 11) and Grammy-winner Chris Stapleton (July 12) headline an outdoor stage backed by sweeping lake views.
It’s not just headliners! The lineup also features acts like Turnpike Troubadours, Charles Wesley Godwin, and Sierra Ferrell across two stages, plus stunt shows, food trucks, and even flash tattoos from famed artist Luke Wessman.
Veterans Park Turns Into Milwaukee’s Loudest Playground
For two full days, Veterans Park transforms into a full-blown moto-music fairground. Expect freestyle motocross shows, chainsaw carving, carnival games, a creator meet-and-greet, and even a Harley-themed tattoo and barbershop setup courtesy of Monster Energy.
A full Harley-Davidson Bike Build-Off Reveal is on deck, along with the chance to check out a NASCAR show car and win a new Street Glide motorcycle. Food and drink options are heavy on local flair. Think Milwaukee beer, Harley-themed snacks, and specialty tastings from Mission Foods and Twisted Tea.
Festivalgoers can choose from multiple ticket levels, including GA+, VIP, and family-friendly options (kids 10 and under are free with a GA adult ticket). Or just walk up (or drive)! There’s plenty that’s free to enjoy, especially at the Museum and dealership locations.
Beyond the Festival: Milwaukee Has a Packed Summer
Even if you’re not revving into town on two wheels, Milwaukee in July is packed with reasons to visit. Summerfest, one of the largest music festivals in the U.S., wraps its final weekend just before Homecoming, while events like the Milwaukee Night Market, Lakefront Festival of Art, and Bastille Days keep the calendar lively.
The city’s historic neighborhoods, like the Third Ward, offer riverfront patios, indie shops, and easy lake access, while brewery tours and food halls like the Milwaukee Public Market give you a real taste of the city’s personality. And yes, Harley-Davidson rides proudly through it all! Locals know that Milwaukee wouldn’t be Milwaukee without that signature rumble in the distance (even if the traffic gets a little crazy during the event).
Where to Catch the Action
The festival is citywide, anchored at several locations:
- Veterans Park hosts concerts and festival experiences (tickets required).
- Harley-Davidson Museum features stunt shows, custom bike displays, and a new product showroom.
- Harley-Davidson Powertrain Operations in Menomonee Falls offers factory tours and free 2025 model test rides.
- Harley-Davidson Headquarters on Juneau Avenue opens up for music, vendors, lawn games, and history.
- Local dealerships across Milwaukee will host rides, demos, and meetups all weekend long.
Everything culminates on Sunday, July 13, with a Roll Out Brunch and Ride-In Custom Bike Show, a fitting finale for a weekend that’s equal parts horsepower and hometown pride.