Garfield’s 502 R&B Festival Returns to Celebrate Music, Food, and Culture in Milwaukee’s Halyard Park Neighborhood
The Garfield’s 502 R&B Festival took place in Milwaukee’s historic Halyard Park neighborhood over the weekend, offering an exciting celebration of rhythm and blues for the entire family. With a large attendance on Saturday, July 15, the festival showcased the vibrant community spirit, highlighting local businesses, music, food, and culture.
Milwaukee Alderwoman Milele Coggs expressed her enthusiasm for the event, stating, “At this event, I see nothing but sunrays, great food, great people, and great merchandise.” The festival provided a platform for people to come together and celebrate the best of what the neighborhood has to offer.
The festival was hosted by Garfield’s 502, a beloved neighborhood restaurant and bar that holds a special place in the hearts of the community. Brandon and Julian Currie, the sons of Garfield 502’s owner, spoke proudly of the festival as part of their family’s legacy. Julian expressed his feelings, saying, “I am proud of what my father has accomplished. I am proud of how everyone has come together and banded together to put on such a memorable event that touches multiple generations.”
Featuring dozens of musical acts and much more, the festival provided entertainment for all ages. Attendees had the opportunity to support local businesses, indulge in delicious food, enjoy multiple stages of music, and explore fashion and beauty through the various vendors present. The festival aimed to showcase the diverse and thriving arts and culture scene in Milwaukee.
City officials, including Mayor Cavalier Johnson, were seen enjoying the festivities. Mayor Johnson expressed his excitement about Milwaukee being known as the city of festivals. He stated, “This is the place you want to be; we’re a city of our own, and I think that’s part of the reason why I want to grow the population because I think that’s part of it too. When people see that it’s an even bigger city, people start to pay more attention.”
The Garfield’s 502 R&B Festival provided a free and accessible opportunity for the community to come together and enjoy a day of fun and celebration. As the festival came to a close on Saturday at 8 p.m., the memories made and the sense of community fostered will continue to resonate with attendees and organizers alike.