About
Appleton, Wisconsin was the beloved hometown of the iconic Harry Houdini. A genius of illusion and escape, he often graced the local Opera House stage and captivated audiences by slipping out of police cuffs with ease. Today, his remarkable influence continues to serve as a vital pillar of our local identity.
This year marks the 100th anniversary of Harry Houdini’s death. Supported by America’s two largest magic organizations, Appleton magic enthusiasts have organized a series of yearlong events to celebrate Houdini and his accomplishments. We hope these will bring a sense of wonder and amazement to the community as well as acknowledge the exploits of the world’s first international superstar.
October 31, 2026 Â | Â 11:00 AM- 2:00 PM
Music & Magic with Prof. Pinkerton Xyloma and Dead Man’s Carnival
Fox Commons
10 E. College Ave., Appleton, WI
(Just steps from Houdini Plaza)
After the Wisconsin State Historical Marker dedication, keep the celebration going with a live circus variety show! Prof. Pinkerton Xyloma and Dead Man’s Carnival bring period music, magic, and specialty acts to the stage—some you can imagine and some you can’t.
October 31, 2026 11:00 AM- 2:00 PM
OCTOBER 15, 2026
6:00-8:00 PM
October 15, 2026 Â | Â 6:00-8:00 PM
Posters of Harry Houdini with Tom Boldt
Poster s will be on exhibit until end of  December.
Join us at the Appleton History Museum for Thursday Night at the Museum! Tom Boldt will explore Houdini’s extraordinary life and share the stories behind the iconic posters featured in the exhibit. Enjoy an evening of history, art, and the magic of Houdini. Mark your calendar and we hope to see you there! Â
Poster s will be on exhibit until end of  December.
FREEÂ
Join us at the Appleton History Museum for Thursday Night at the Museum! Tom Boldt will explore Houdini’s extraordinary life and share the stories behind the iconic posters featured in the exhibit. Enjoy an evening of history, art, and the magic of Houdini. Mark your calendar and we hope to see you there! Â
2 SHOW TImes
October 24, 2026
 2:00 PM & 9:00 PM
Hailed as a "Global Sensation" by the NBC, Leon Etienne’s high-energy, rock-themed magic show is an unforgettable experience for the whole family. Prepare to be amazed as he brings his international award-winning illusions to Appleton.
October 29, 2026 Â | Â 6:00-8:00 PM
Harry Houdini Movie Night
& Halloween Treats
Join us at the Appleton History Museum for Thursday Night at the Museum!  Enjoy a movie and some yummy Halloween treats. We hope to see you there and don’t forget to mark your calendar!
FREEÂ
October 29, 2026
 6:00 PM-8:00 PM
Harry Houdini Movie Night & Halloween Treats
October 30, 2026 Â | Â 7:30 PM
Lance Burton Master Magician & Friends
LANCE BURTON is widely considered by his peers to be the greatest stage Magician of the past century. His new live touring show, Lance Burton Master Magician & Friends is a mix of illusions, sleight of hand, audience participation, and amazing guest stars. A Las Vegas show suitable for the whole family!
October 30, 2026
7:30 PM
Directly following the dedication ceremony, head over to Fox Commons for an afternoon of live entertainment featuring live Prof. Pinkerton Xyloma and Dead Man’s Carnival.Â
October 31, 2026 Â | Â 10:30-11:00 AM
Wisconsin State Historical Marker Dedication
Honoring Harry Houdini on the 100th Anniversary of his passing
Houdini Plaza  |  Downtown Appleton
Corner of College Ave. & Appleton St.
Be part of this special moment as we formally dedicate the official unveiling of the Wisconsin State Historical Marker in Houdini Plaza, celebrating Houdini’s lasting connection to Appleton and his mark on history.
FREE Family Event
October 31, 2026
10:30-11:00 AM
Houdini Plaza
Downtown Appleton
Corner of College Ave. & Appleton St.
NOVEMBER 7, 2026 Â | Â 9:00 AM
Capital Credit Union Houdini 10K
START: Houdini Plaza
Downtown Appleton
Corner of College Ave. & Appleton St.
START: Houdini Plaza  |  Corner of College Ave. & Appleton St.Â
FINISH: Jones Park  |  301 W. Lawrence St., Appleton, WIÂ
FINISH: Jones Park
The Capital Credit Union Houdini 10k recognizes Appleton's iconic resident Harry Houdini and ushers in the beauty of a Wisconsin fall with a scenic course including the Newberry Trail and Appleton Locks. Participants will start at Houdini Plaza and finish in Jones Park to enjoy post-race food & beverage including Copper State Brewing Co. beer to those 21 & older. Additionally, there will be Magicians strolling throughout the morning performing for you to enjoy before and after your run. This event is part of the 4imprint Race Series.
NOVEMBER 7, 2026
9:00 AM
The Capital Credit Union Houdini 10k recognizes Appleton's iconic resident Harry Houdini and ushers in the beauty of a Wisconsin fall with a scenic course including the Newberry Trail and Appleton Locks.
Â
Participants will start at Houdini Plaza and finish in Jones Park to enjoy post-race food & beverage including Copper State Brewing Co. beer to those 21 & older. Additionally, there will be Magicians strolling throughout the morning performing for you to enjoy before and after your run. This event is part of the 4imprint Race Series.
NOVEMBER 13, 2026 Â | Â 7:00 PM
Weyauwega International Film Festival: Houdini Night
Enjoy an evening of Houdini starting with highlights from his Hollywood films, a discussion with renowned Houdini expert John Cox moderated by local Houdini expert Tom Boldt.
A screening of the 1953 film HOUDINI starring Tony Curtis and Janet Leigh and a live seance attempting to contact Harry Houdini himself with a special appearance by actress Angelica Page.
​
Tickets: $20
(Includes admission to films throughout the day at WIFF. A full festival pass can also be purchased for $50 which allows entrance to all four days at WIFF)
NOVEMBER 13, 2026
7:00 PM
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