Milwaukee Downtown BID #21 teamed up with downtown businesses and community leaders again to welcome back downtown employees during the 16th annual Downtown Employee Appreciation Week, August 30 to September 3, 2021. The weeklong celebration features free lunches, Office Challenge Games, and after-hours socials.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony, live music, and prize opportunities were held at Red Arrow Park on August 30, kicking off the festivities. Lunch for 1,000 employees was provided by Tatay’s Truck and Davians. Three local caricaturists were also onsite, creating free caricatures for downtown employees. As part of the Art in the Park series, Dave Watkins also spent time painting in Red Arrow Park.

“Our annual homecoming event is our way of not only welcoming Milwaukee’s dedicated workforce back to downtown, but also creating an experience that draws people to our vibrant work environment,” said Beth Weirick, CEO of Milwaukee Downtown BID #21. “This year’s celebration is our way of thanking all of our downtown employees for being part of our growing workforce.”

With the Delta variant of COVID-19 still impacting local businesses, Downtown employees had the chance can get their first shot of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine at the onsite Aurora clinic. The offering did not require and appointment, and the second shot was scheduled for a later date.

Downtown Employee Appreciation Week will conclude with a closing ceremony featuring live music, games, and lunch for 1,000 downtown employees on September 3 in Pere Marquette Park. In addition, completed Downtown Employee Appreciation Week passports will be pulled for a prize drawing that recognizes employees who participated in three or more events.

The annual event was held in accordance with local and state health and safety guidelines. Masks were encouraged at indoor events regardless of the vaccination status of individuals.

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Lee Matz

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