Looking for something to do this weekend?  Head east and keep going until you can almost taste the cold water of Lake Michigan. Two of Milwaukee's cultural gems are hosting big events this weekend with something for everyone (particularily foodies, winos and shoppers like me).

Sneak out of work early on Friday to start the wine sampling at the 4:00 pm opening bell for the first annual Milwaukee Wine Festival held on the grounds of the Milwaukee Art Museum. There will be over 150 different wines to sample plus food, cooking demonstrations from top local chefs and live music until 10:00 pm. The festivities continue on Saturday from 2:00 - 9:00 pm. I will be working all weekend selling a delicious local product called Kangaroo pita chips. If you stop by and tell me that you read my blogs (and love them), I will give you a free bag! Find ticket prices and a complete schedule of entertainment and exhibitors at the website listed below. 

Right next door at Pier Wisconsin, groove, samba and Salsa to the sounds of local Latin band, De la Buena from 6:00 - 8:00 pm as part of the opening reception for the Discovery World Artisan and Entrepreneur Market. If 150 wines sounds a little daunting, or if you have to drive home, check out the Vino 100 wine tasting of South American wines for $10 over at DW. Numerous local artists will be selling a plethora of intruiging art, gifts and crafts from 10:00 am - 5:00 pm on Saturday too.

If you need another reason to soak up the shores of Milwaukee's beautiful Lakefront, check out Mexican Fiesta at the adjacent Summerfest grounds this weekend. Plenty of autentic fare, tunes and traditions will having you hailing "Ole."  Also, Saturday morning there will be a 5K fun run and walk to benefit the Make a Wish Foundation.