Milwaukee WI 2024-25

The Science of Laughter: Why We Love to Chuckle

The Science of Laughter: Why We Love to Chuckle

Laughter is often called the best medicine, and for good reason. It’s a universal language that transcends borders and cultures, bringing joy and connection to people worldwide. But have you ever wondered why we love to chuckle so much? In this article, we’ll explore the fascinating science of laughter, the benefits it brings, and why it’s such a fundamental part of the human experience.

neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward. This chemical rush is why we often feel so good after a hearty laugh.

The Social Glue: Connecting Through Chuckles

The Biology of Laughter: A Brainy Affair

When you laugh, your brain releases a cocktail of feel-good chemicals. Endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers, flood your system, creating a sense of euphoria and reducing stress. Laughter also triggers the release of dopamine, a

continued on page 10

Laughter isn’t just about feeling good; it’s also a powerful social tool. Evolutionary scientists believe that laughter evolved as a way for early humans to bond and strengthen social bonds.

When we laugh with others, it signals trust and positive interaction, reinforcing social connections.

The Laughter Contagion: Yawns Are Out, Laughter Is In

You’ve probably experienced

Restaurants

Odd Duck

Quirky find featuring an ever-changing New American shared-plate menu & creative cocktails.

939 S 2nd St, Milwaukee, WI 53204

Phone: (414) 763-5881 | Web: oddduckrestaurant.com

Bacchus - A Bartolotta Restaurant

Sleek, upscale New American spot with a huge wine list & a conservatory with Lake Michigan views.

925 E Wells St, Milwaukee, WI 53202

Phone: (414) 765-1166 | Web: bartolottas.com

La Merenda

Colorful spot with an outdoor bar & a menu of globally inspired small plates, local beers & wine.

125 E National Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53204

Phone: (414) 389-0125 | Web: lamerenda125.com

Have a restaurant you’d like us to feature?

Send in a recommendation for your favorite restaurant to be added to our list. Be sure to mention why you think they are worthy of being featured and include a link to their website.

AJ Bombers

Kitschy joint for burgers, beer & shelled peanuts where customers write on the wall with markers.

1247 N Water St, Milwaukee, WI

Harbor House

Upscale spot with Lake Michigan & skyline views serving steak & seafood dishes & offering a lengthy wine list.

550 N Harbor Dr, Milwaukee, WI

Tre Rivali

Mediterranean cuisine offered in sprawling digs with a dining room, bar, cafe & patio.

200 N Broadway, Milwaukee, WI

Birch

Modern bistro & butcher shop serving Midwestern cuisine prepared on an open-fire hearth.

459 E Pleasant St, Milwaukee, WI

Mo’s A Place for Steaks

Upscale restaurant serving premium steaks, seafood & wine in sophisticated surroundings.

720 N Plankinton Ave, Milwaukee, WI

Original Sobelman’s on St. Paul

Bar & grill, housed in an original Schlitz tavern, known for Bloody Marys, burgers & sandwiches.

1900 W St Paul Avenue, Milwaukee, WI

Amilinda

Spanish & Portuguese plates are paired with cocktails & wine in a cozy-chic setting.

315 E Wisconsin Avenue, Milwaukee, WI

Café Benelux

Cafe/market featuring food & brews from Belgium, The Netherlands & Luxembourg plus a rooftop patio.

346 N Broadway, Milwaukee, WI

Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar

An all-day menu of Southern comfort food with a creative twist, plus craft beers & cocktails.

511 N Broadway, Milwaukee, WI

EVENTS 2024

MAR 30

Sour Fest

Join MobCraft Beer for our 6th annual Sour Fest 2024! Featuring lots of Wild & Sour beers on tap in the MobCraft taproom (free to attend) and Wisconsin Wild & Sour Sampling Sessions which highlight sour beers from breweries across Wisconsin. Learn more at mobcraftbeer.com.

APR 19

Milwaukee Blues Festival

The 11th annual Milwaukee Blues Festival returns to Milwaukee and the Riverside Theater this April! The Blues is musical storytelling filled with stark emotion and a revolving reality check. It’s authentically raw; transforming tragedy, adversity, and heartache into a visceral and cathartic experience. Learn more at pabsttheatergroup.com.

MAY 3

HOG Fest 2024

The HOG is thrilled to have Staind headling HOG Fest 2024. We’re excited to ROCK with thousands of our closest friends at the incredible Fiserv Forum this spring!Tickets start at just $35 so grab yours before they’re sold out! Learn more at 1029thehog.com.

May 25

BikerFest Block Party

BikerFest Block Party is an annual event designed to connect people interested in the growing sport with businesses that are eager to supply a variety relatable goods, services and opportunities in a safe and fun environment. Learn more at bikerfestmke.org.

JUN 6

Pridefest Milwaukee

Anyone that’s attended PrideFest knows our stages are filled with local dance, performance, and acrobatic talents! We’re super excited for even MORE high energy performances for 2024! Learn more at pridefest.com.

EVENTS 2024

JUN 15

Summer Soulstice Music Festival

It’s all about the music of Milwaukee. We’ve got the local top talent, different sounds and different vibes throughout the festival. You are not going to want to miss this FREE showcase of great music along with a variety of food, arts & crafts, and activities. Learn more at summersoulsticemke.com.

JUN 20

Summerfest

During the festival, the spotlight shines on over 800 acts, over 1,000 performances, 12 stages, delectable food and beverages, and interactive activities, all in a world-class festival setting. We will continue to list more of the music industry’s hottest stars, emerging talent, and local favorites to the 2024 Summerfest Lineup as the artists are announced. Learn more at summerfest.com.

JUL 4

Glendale 4th of July Celebration

The City of Glendale’s 4th of July Committee continues our tradition by planning another Independence Day party for 2024. We will have a Parade Extravaganza, a Food Truck Festival, The Toys for live music, bouncy houses, a dunk tank, and the famed summer soak. Learn more at glendale4thofjuly.com.

JUL 13

Whitefish Bay Art Fest

Amdur Productions proudly returns to the streets of Whitefish Bay, Wisconsin for the 5th Annual Whitefish Bay Art Fest! The Village of Whitefish Bay couldn’t be more excited for and supportive of this art festival. Whitefish Bay is an affluent village, just 8 miles north of Milwaukee. The festival will take place in the downtown area along a vibrant tree-lined street and nestled amongst popular cafés, boutiques, and salons. Learn more at amdurproductions.com

the phenomenon of contagious laughter. When someone near you starts laughing, you can’t help but join in, even if you’re not sure what’s so funny.

cortisol, promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety.

This contagious nature of laugh ter is thought to be linked to our mirror neuron system, which activates when we observe someone else’s actions or emotions. In essence, when we see or hear laughter, our brains mimic it, compelling us to laugh along.

The Health Benefits: A Chuckle a Day Keeps the Doctor Away

Laughter isn’t just about feeling good; it also offers numerous health benefits. Here are some of the ways laughter can boost your well-being:

Stress Reduction: Laugh ter reduces the production of stress hormones like

Pain Relief: Laughing triggers the release of endorphins, which can temporarily alleviate pain and discomfort.

Improved Immunity: Regular laughter has been linked to enhanced immune function, helping the body fight off illnesses.

Better Mood: Laughter can elevate mood and combat feelings of depression by increasing the release of dopamine.

Strengthened Relationships: Sharing laughs with friends and loved ones fosters stronger social

bonds and increases feelings of connectedness.

The Laughter Prescription: Make Time for Chuckles

Incorporating laughter into your daily life is a simple yet effective way to improve your well-being. Here are some tips to get your daily dose of giggles:

Watch Comedy: Enjoy a funny movie, stand-up comedy show, or your favorite sitcom to trigger laughter.

Spend Time with Funny Friends: Surround yourself with peo ple who have a good sense of humor and enjoy sharing laughter.

Laughter

Find Humor in Everyday Life: Seek out the humor in everyday situations and don’t take life too seriously.

Share Funny Stories: Share funny anecdotes and jokes with friends and family to create laughter-filled moments.

Embrace the Chuckles

Laughter is a powerful and joyful force in our lives. It connects us, reduces stress, and brings a myriad of health

Yoga: Join a laughter yoga class or practice laughter exercises at home to reap the benefits of intentional laughter.

So, the next time you find yourself in the midst of hearty laughter, remember that you’re not just having fun—you’re also giving your brain and body a much-needed boost.

Embrace the chuckles, share a joke, and let laughter light up your life. After all, as the saying goes, laughter truly is the best medicine!

EVENTS 2024

JUL 27

Milwaukee Brewfest

Taste your way through unlimited pours offered by the world’s best brewmasters. There’s something for everyone! There will be plenty of beverages, food, and merchandise so feel free to bring a chair or a blanket to hangout while you enjoy unlimited sampling of the worlds most celebrated craft beers, ciders, wines, seltzers, and meads. Learn more at milwaukeebrewfest.com.

AUG 1

Wisconsin State Fair

Wisconsin State Fair will celebrate 173 years of tradition and hope to once again welcome over one million Fairgoers over the course of its 11-day run. It is the mission of the annual Wisconsin State Fair to celebrate agriculture and other industries paramount to Wisconsin’s rich history and promising future by producing family-friendly, affordable, safe, and educational event for all ages and ethnicities, creating memories and traditions to be carried on for generations. Learn more at wistatefair.com.

SEP 6

TosaFest

A family-friendly celebration of our charming city, TosaFest is all about a weekend of fun in the heart of Wauwatosa — and an annual favorite since 1976. Tosa Fest is a celebration of the Wauwatosa community, bringing people together to enjoy a weekend filled with food, music, and entertainment. Learn more at discoverwauwatosa.com.

SEP 28

Mobtoberfest 2024

Join us for MobCraft’s Oktoberfest Celebration! Polka, polka, polka! Join us for a MobCraft spin on the celebration of a Wisconsin tradition: Oktoberfest! Live music, games, German-inspired food and plenty of beer! Put on your lederhosen and enjoy some polka! Learn more at mobcraftbeer.com.

OCT 5

Fall Street Festival

Celebrate fall with us in historic Downtown Port Washington, as we close down Franklin Street for a day of live music, artisan and street vendors and fall family fun. You don’t want to miss it! This event is FREE and open to the public. Parking is also FREE! Learn more at visitportwashington.com.

OCT 26

Dia de los Muertos

The Dia de los Muertos Festival is a FREE family-friendly event that celebrates the traditions of Dia de los Muertos within the beautiful setting of Forest Home Cemetery & Arboretum. The event will kick off in the morning with a 5k Run/Walk through the grounds of the cemetery. After the run, the festival opens to public at 10am, featuring local vendors, arts and crafts for kids and families, food trucks, traditional music and dance, altars to the dead in our chapel, face painting, community resource booths, and so much more. Learn more at foresthomecemetery.com.

NOV 21

Milwaukee Holiday Lights Festival

Celebrate the 26th Anniversary of the Milwaukee Holiday Lights Festival in downtown parks and catch the holiday spirit! Enjoy six weeks of holiday happenings Downtown, with over half a million lights on display at three decorated parks. Learn more at milwaukeedowntown.com.

DEC 31

Toast to Tomorrow New Years Eve Bar Crawl

Whether you’re looking to dance the night away, savor gourmet cuisine, or simply toast to the memories of the past year, the Pub Pioneers’ “Toast to Tomorrow” Bar Crawl promises an unforgettable New Year’s Eve experience. Get ready to ring in the new year in style as we embark on a journey through the city’s hottest pubs and bars. Visit eventbrite.com.

Street food is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. It’s the sizzle of skewers on a grill, the aromatic spices wafting through the air, and the sizzling woks that create an irresistible symphony of flavors. Here are some of the world’s most beloved street food traditions:

1. Thailand: Mango Sticky Rice ~ In Thailand, street food is a way of life. You can’t visit without savoring pad Thai, a stir-fried noodle dish bursting with flavors. And don’t forget to indulge in mango sticky rice, a sweet and fragrant dessert that’s the perfect balance of creamy and chewy.

2. Mexico: Tacos and Elote ~ Taco stands are a staple in Mexican street food culture, offering an array of fillings like al pastor, carne asada, and carnitas. Pair your tacos with elote, grilled corn slathered with mayonnaise,

continued on page 16

cheese, and chili powder—a taste explosion in every bite.

3. India: Samosas ~

Indian street food is a flavorpacked paradise. Try chaat, a savory snack that combines crispy fried dough with chickpeas, yogurt, and tangy chutneys. For something heartier, try samosas - deep fried pastries filled with spiced potatoes are a must-try.

4. Vietnam: Banh Mi ~

Vietnamese street food offers a fresh and aromatic experience. Sample a steaming bowl of pho, a fragrant noodle soup infused with herbs and spices. Or grab a banh mi, a delectable sandwich filled with grilled meats, pickled veggies, and a burst of fresh herbs.

5. Greece: Gyros & Souvlaki ~ Greek street food is a Mediterranean delight. Indulge in a gyro, a pita wrap filled with tender slices of roasted meat and topped with tzatziki sauce and veggies. For a quick bite, grab a souvlaki skewer, often made with succulent marinated chicken or pork.

6. Japan: Takoyaki & Okonomiyaki ~ Japan’s street food scene offers a unique blend of tradition and innovation. Try takoyaki, octopus-filled dough balls drizzled with savory sauces. Or savor okonomiyaki, a savory pancake loaded with toppings like cabbage, pork, and mayo.

7. Morocco: Tagine & Harira Soup ~ Moroccan street food is a sensory explosion. Taste tagine, a slowcooked stew that combines tender meats, vegetables, and aromatic spices. And don’t miss harira soup, a hearty tomato and lentil soup that’s a Moroccan comfort food staple.

8. United States: Hot Dogs/Pretzels ~ Street food isn’t limited to international flavors. In the U.S., you can’t beat the classic charm of a hot dog cart or a soft pretzel stand. Add your favorite toppings and sauces for a taste of American street food tradition.

Exploring global street food culture is like taking a whirlwind tour of the world’s flavors and traditions. Each street vendor, food cart, or bustling market stall offers a unique opportunity to savor authentic dishes and connect with locals. Whether you’re strolling through the vibrant streets of Bangkok or sipping soup in a Moroccan medina, street food is an adventure waiting to be devoured. So, grab a plate, dig in, and let your taste buds take you on a journey you’ll never forget!

MKE LGBT COMMUNITY CENTER

The Milwaukee LGBT Community Center delivers educational, health promotion, and community-building services that meet the needs of LGBT youth, adults, and their allies in the Greater Milwaukee area from its primary facility and other sites.

WWW.MKELGBT.ORG | (414) 271-2656

PFLAG MILWAUKEE

PFLAG promotes the health and well-being of gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgendered persons, their families and friends through: support, to cope with an adverse society; education, to enlighten an ill-informed public; and advocacy, to end discrimination and to secure equal civil rights. MILWAUKEE-PFLAG.ORG | (414) 299-9198

DIVERSE & RESILIENT

At Diverse & Resilient, we see a future in which lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer people in Wisconsin thrive, living healthy, satisfying lives in safe, supportive communities.

DIVERSEANDRESILIENT.ORG | (414) 390-0444

WISCONSIN LGBT CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

The award-winning Wisconsin LGBT Chamber of Commerce is an organization of gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and LGBT-allied businesses, corporations and professionals throughout the state of Wisconsin focused on being a strong pro-fairness business community. WISLGBTCHAMBER.COM | (414) 678-9275

HMONG AMERICAN WOMEN’S ASSOCIATION

We are PROUD to be the only Southeast Asian women, Queer-fem-led grassroots social justice advocacy organization in Milwaukee, WI that is dedicated to the liberation of Southeast Asian women, girls, Queer and Trans people.

WWW.HAWAMKE.ORG | (414) 930-9352

EVENTS 2025

JAN TBD

Ice Bear Fest

Whether you’re fresh off a run on the Alps or navigating the streets of Milwaukee mid-winter, nothing hits the spot after sliding around on the ice and snow quite like a cold beer. Non-beer offerings will include hot coffee so come out of your winter hibernation for some fun in the snow with music and drinks! Learn more at visitmilwaukee.org.

Jan TBD

Dry January Beverage Festival

Enjoy unlimited samples of more than 50 products in the wide-ranging, ever-evolving, and rapidly-growing non-alcoholic drink market. ineup includes non-alcoholic beer and seltzer, kombucha, mocktails, nonalcoholic wine and spirits, tonics, craft soda, sparkling water, coffee, energy drinks, CBD products, and more. Vendors range from local operations like Lakefront Brewery, Soul Brew Kombucha, Untitled Art, and Great Lakes Distillery to nationally-regarded brands like Athletic Brewing, Lagunitas, Clausthaler, Sierra Nevada, and Liquid Death. Details at cooperagemke.com.

FEB TBD

Winter Festival

Winter Festival is an indoor and outdoor event in historic downtown Cedarburg. Local boutiques, bars, cafes, and restaurants will be joining in the Winter Festival fun! Check out all the great spots and support local businesses. Learn more at cedarburgfestival.org.

Mar TBD

St. Patrick’s Day Parade

This family-friendly event celebrates the city’s rich Irish heritage and features over 100 units including Irish dancers, pipe and drum groups, decorative floats and more! Learn more about the festivities at saintpatricksparade.org.