MILWAUKEE KAYAK FIELD GUIDE
August 26 — Sunset Kayak, Floating Concert, and Afterparty on Milwaukee’s River
An evening paddle on the Milwaukee River that pairs live music aboard the Funktoon with a kayak launch from Twisted Fisherman, useful for planning timing, tickets, and the midway pub break.
August 26 — Sunset Kayak, Floating Concert, and Afterparty on Milwaukee’s River.
The Static Chicken is an evening river roundup produced by Funk Enterprises LLC that sends paddlers out at sunset on the Milwaukee River for a floating concert and a lively, music-forward run that includes a halfway break at The Harp Irish Pub and an afterparty at Twisted Fisherman.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
A Floating Concert at Sunset
Paddle as the Funktoon sets the soundtrack for an evening on the Milwaukee and Menomonee Rivers—an uncommon urban concert that unfolds from the water under a late-summer sky.
Halfway Pub Break at The Harp
The run includes a planned break at The Harp Irish Pub where paddlers pause mid-route before returning to Twisted Fisherman for the final leg.
Live Music Back at Twisted Fisherman
After returning to the dock, expect an afterparty featuring Craig Baumann & the Story—an extension of the evening’s live-music focus anchored at Twisted Fisherman.
What the day feels like
What the evening feels like
Launch from a downtown dock, fall into a steady sunset cadence as the Funktoon pilots live music downriver, take a sociable pause at an Irish pub midroute, then finish at a riverside afterparty—an easygoing mix of paddling and live performance designed for a late-afternoon into evening slot.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this outing suits—consider fitness, nighttime conditions, and your interest in live music.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The scheduled event runs from 5:00pm–8:00pm with check-in after 4:00pm; launch is at 4:30pm and the afterparty begins at 8:00pm.
Ticket options include $20 for launching your own kayak, $50 for a single kayak rental, $90 for a tandem rental, and a Duffy boat option for up to 11 passengers available by contacting [email protected] about the $500 option.
After 4:00pm check in with Milwaukee Kayak Company located at the west end of the docks before launching from Twisted Fisherman.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
What time is check-in and where do I meet?
Check in after 4:00pm with Milwaukee Kayak Company at the west end of the docks before launching at Twisted Fisherman.
When does the paddle start and end?
The event launches kayaks at 4:30pm, with the Funktoon setting sail at 5:00pm; the main paddle runs through about 8:00pm with an afterparty following.
Is there a midway stop or break?
Yes—there is a set break at The Harp Irish Pub at 6:15pm featuring a performance by the Jack Reed Group, with departure from The Harp at 7:00pm.
What ticket and rental options are available?
Options include $20 to launch your own kayak, $50 for a single kayak rental, $90 for a tandem rental, and a $500 Duffy boat option for up to 11 passengers via email to [email protected].
Is there an afterparty and who’s playing?
Yes—the afterparty is at Twisted Fisherman beginning at 8:00pm and features Craig Baumann & the Story; the scheduled afterparty runs into the evening.
Who operates the event and who sponsors it?
The event is run by Funk Enterprises LLC and MKE River Roundup is sponsored by Joy Engine, Milwaukee Riverwalk, Milwaukee Kayak Company, Twisted Fisherman, The Harp Irish Pub, Indeed Brewing, and Surfside ice tea.
How can I book the Duffy boat?
Email [email protected] for details about the $500 Duffy boat option that holds 11 passengers.