Milwaukee Lakefront Drone Show

July 3 @ 9:15 pm

Free

4th of July Event Guide Lake Country family Fun fireworks parades celebrations

The Milwaukee Lakefront Drone Show are in place of the 4th of July fireworks on July 3, 2026. Milwaukee County and Milwaukee County Parks in partnership with Milwaukee Parks Foundation will once again host the amazing drone show at McKinley Beach on Friday, July 3, 2026. This year’s event will feature new pyrotechnic drones and family-friendly pre-show activities!

Lake Country families are invited to experience an unforgettable evening along the lakefront at Milwaukee County’s annual July 3 Drone Show. In partnership with Northern Lights Drone Show by BCI Entertainment, this year’s signature event will reach new heights with the debut of pyrotechnic drone technology; blending synchronized aerial light formations with safe, controlled spark effects for a visually stunning performance.

The approximately 45-minute show will feature patriotic light displays and more, creating a unique alternative to traditional fireworks.

Before the main event, families can enjoy an expanded lineup of activities along the lakefront at McKinley Beach, making it a fun, all-ages destination throughout the evening. Additional details on activities, vendors, and amenities will be announced soon.

This beloved annual event highlights the beauty of Milwaukee’s lakefront while bringing the community together for a memorable Independence Day celebration.

Viewing areas for the drone show will be available at McKinley Beach and McKinley Park, offering expansive lakefront views for attendees.

Parking Locations:

Reserved parking is available at McKinley Marina for $28 per vehicle through ParkMobile. Prepay to park using this link: McKinley Marina Lot | Drone Show Parking at McKinley Marina North Lot | ParkMobile
First come, first served parking is also available for $20 per vehicle, cash or card, starting at 2:00 p.m. at the Coast Guard Station Lot and the McKinley Tennis Courts Lot (reference event map). Parking is limited to approximately 1,000 spaces and is expected to fill quickly.
Once parking opens at 2:00 pm, you may reserve your seating area, but please note, no staking is allowed.

Vendors Open at 3:00 p.m.

Food and beverage:

Food and beverage vendors will be available on site.
Parks beer stands serve Molson Coors, Lakefront Brewery, and White Claw hard seltzers, along with Pepsi products. Proceeds from beer sales help support future park projects.

Additional Food Vendors include:

Bartolotta’s Roundhouse Beer Garden
Flips Donuts
Special Events Foods
Additional vendors

New this year, families can enjoy bounce houses, face painting, and live entertainment before the show begins.

Portable and accessible restrooms along with those at the McKinley Marina will be available.

The evening will feature a welcome and live remarks from County Executive David Crowley. The drone show will feature three waves of drones lasting approximately 15 minutes each, blending cutting-edge technology with an original synchronized soundtrack for a stunning 45-minute performance. Viewers can expect spectacular visuals of Milwaukee’s most iconic landmarks transitioning into patriotic portrayals and other local scenes!

Show Details:

Date: Friday, July 3, 2026
Location: McKinley Beach and surrounding areas
Start Time: Approximately 9:15 p.m., after dark
Show Duration: 3 waves of about 14 minutes each (total ~45 minutes)
Music: A synchronized soundtrack will accompany the drones, available for personal download by attendees in most viewing zones.

Attendees are encouraged to help keep the lakefront clean by properly disposing of trash and recycling materials throughout the event area. There will be an organized park cleanup at the McKinley Roundhouse, Beer Garden entrance on Saturday, July 4th from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. Volunteers are wanted. Sign up here! Drone Show Volunteer Sign Up Form

Additional Details

Make Up Rain Date: Sunday, July 5, 2026

July Fourth fireworks shows and celebrations in Milwaukee County include:

Hales Corners: Hales Corners Park
Cudahy: Sheridan Park
Glendale: Kletzsch Park
South Milwaukee: Grant Park
City of Milwaukee:
- Alcott Park
- Wilson Park
- Mitchell Park
- Washington Park
- Noyes Park
- Lincoln Park
- Jackson Park
- Humboldt Park
- Gordon Park
- Lake Park
- King Park (No fireworks – celebration only)