Milwaukee Celebrates Henry Winkler’s 80th Birthday

Milwaukee celebrated Henry Winkler's 80th birthday on October 30, 2025, at the Bronze Fonz statue. The event featured a mayoral proclamation, live performances, and interactive activities. Fans and visitors contributed to the festivities, honoring Winkler's legacy from "Happy Days," which connected the city to television history and pop culture.

Newsdesk R. Michael October 20, 2025 2 min read

A Big Day for “The Fonz”

MILWAUKEE, WI – Oct. 30, 2025 — Milwaukee is lighting the candles for a major milestone. The city will celebrate Henry Winkler’s 80th birthday and the legacy of his famous character, Arthur “The Fonz” Fonzarelli, with a community party at the Bronze Fonz statue.

The event takes place on Thursday, October 30 at 2:00 p.m. CDT at the Milwaukee Riverwalk near Wells Street. Fans, locals, and visitors are all invited to join the fun.

A bronze statue of Arthur "The Fonz" Fonzarelli standing by the Milwaukee Riverwalk, with colorful text overlay reading "HAPPY BIRTHDAY, FONZIE!"

A Celebration Fit for The Fonz

The event will include a special proclamation from Mayor Cavalier Johnson, interactive activities, live performances of “Happy Birthday” by Skylight Music Theatre artists, giveaways, and other surprises. The Bronze Fonz will be decorated for the occasion — ready to celebrate Henry Winkler 80th Birthday Milwaukee style.

Why Milwaukee Loves The Fonz

Henry Winkler’s role on Happy Days connected Milwaukee to television history. The show’s success made The Fonz an icon and helped put the city on the pop culture map. Now, Milwaukee is saying “Ayyyy!” once again to honor Winkler’s legacy and the joy he’s brought to fans worldwide.

What to Expect

Mayor reading an official proclamation and cutting a birthday cake
The Bronze Fonz decked out in festive decorations
Fans writing birthday messages on a community board
Free giveaways and souvenirs for attendees

If you can’t make it, Visit Milwaukee will host a Fonzie-themed trip giveaway. Fans can also visit the Bronze Fonz live cam on the Visit Milwaukee website to join the celebration virtually.

Who Will Be There

Peggy Williams-Smith, President & CEO, Visit Milwaukee
Mayor Cavalier Johnson
Milwaukee residents, visitors, and fans of Happy Days

About Visit Milwaukee

Visit Milwaukee supports local tourism and builds a stronger, more inclusive community. Tourism generates over $6.3 billion annually for the local economy and supports nearly 44,000 hospitality jobs.

The organization works with over 1,000 members, including hotels, restaurants, attractions, and service providers. Strategic partners include the Wisconsin Center District, the City of Wauwatosa, and Potawatomi Casino | Hotel.

For more information, visit www.visitmilwaukee.org or call (800) 554-1448.

Media Contact:
Claire Koenig, VP of Communications & Advocacy
E: ckoenig@milwaukee.org