Online ticket sales end at 10:00 am CST on Saturday, September 27, 2025
Tickets are available for purchase at the gate.
GENERAL INFORMATION
Q: What is Popesfest?
In short: Popesfest is part reunion, part block party, part fundraiser—and all community. It’s one of the last big outdoor events before fall and a signature tradition for the Pius XI family. Featuring live music, food and drinks from local vendors and games and activities for all ages, Popesfest is a family-friendly celebration that blends the best parts of a Milwaukee summer festival with the unique spirit of Pius XI Catholic High School.
Q: Who benefits from the festival proceeds?
Proceeds from Popesfest benefit the Popes Fund, supporting the greatest needs of the Pius XI community, from caring staff to enriching academic programs, athletics and clubs to facilities and maintenance. The transformative power of education is truly a worthwhile investment. With your support, Pius XI can help more students excel academically, develop moral courage, and live lives of faith and service.
Q: What is the festival date, and hours and location?
Popesfest is September 27, 2025 from 12:00pm - 7:00pm at Pius XI Catholic High School (135 N. 76th Street, Milwaukee, WI 53213)
Q: Are items available for purchase at Popesfest?
All food, beverage and activity purchases at the festival are made using tickets. Cash and credit cards will not be accepted at vendor or activity booths.Tickets may be purchased by cash or card at the designated ticket booths. An ATM is available onsite. **EXCEPTION: Items from the official Popesfest Gift Shop are available for purchase by cash and card.
IMPORTANT!
No outside food or beverage (except in the case of young children and infants), chairs, coolers, weapons, skateboards, scooters, hoverboards, or animals other than trained service animals are allowed on Popesfest grounds.
ADMISSION FAQ
Q: What is the cost of admission?
Gate Ticket Prices:
Adult (21+) - $10
Youth (ages 6-20) $5.00
Kids (5 and under) - FREE
Re-entry is allowed as long as you do not remove your 2025 Popesfest wristband(s).
Q: Is there on-site parking? If so, is it free or paid?
A limited number of VIP parking spots are available for purchase on the day of the event at the gate.
Q: Is the event handicap accessible?
The entire event is accessible for individuals of all abilities. There are a limited number of handicap accessible parking spaces available and a handicap accessible porta-potty is available onsite. If you need assistance, just ask one of our volunteers (look for a bright orange wristband!)
Q: Can I bring my pet?
For the safety and comfort of all guests, only service animals individually trained to assist a person with a disability are allowed at the festival. No other animals are permitted.
Q: Is there first aid available?
A trained first aid provider will be available onsite for the entire duration of Popesfest.
Q: Is the high school building open during Popesfest?
The main building will not be open to the public on September 27. For your convenience, portable restrooms (porta-potties) and handwashing stations are provided.
Q: Who do I contact for lost & found?
Please contact dcarey@piusxi.org for any items left behind at Popesfest.
FOOD, BEVERAGE, & FUN!
Q: What kind of food vendors will be there?
Check out our list of food and beverage vendors.
Q: Is alcohol served, and what’s the policy for age verification?
Age verification is required for alcohol purchases. Guests must present a state-issued ID; individuals over 21 will receive a wristband.
Q: Who is performing on the main stage?
Check out our main stage lineup here.
Q: Are there family-friendly or kids’ activities?
Popesfest activities include the dunk tank (check out the line-up here), face-painting, a photo booth, caricature drawings and games. Families are invited to enjoy our Kids Area, where games and activities for young children are offered. Please note that tickets may be required for participation. Parents and guardians are responsible for supervising their children at all times while on festival grounds.
Q: Are there contests, raffles, or giveaways?
We will be hosting a 50-50 cash raffle that will be announced at 6:45pm. (Participants must be 18 years or older to participate and winners must be present to win.)
