It’s billed as The World’s Largest Music Festival™, each year attracting some 700 bands – the music industry’s most lustrous stars and most exciting emerging talent. Stage the event against the backdrop of Lake Michigan, throw in fabulous food, great drink and fascinating exhibits. Let it all simmer a bit and the result is Milwaukee’s scintillating Summerfest, the 45th edition.
This is a bi-furcated bash, running from Wednesday, June 27 to Sunday, July 1 and Tuesday, July 3 to Sunday, July 8. It’s been going on since 1968. The staying power is phenomenal, as is its ability to attract the best. Performers include Rascal Flatts, Kool & the Gang, Steve Miller Band, The Noble Bros., and We Came as Romans.
Come as you are to Summerfest, but remember the summer part. Milwaukee’s marvelous, but the Upper Midwest can get hot this time of year. Hydrate. Visit the Columbia St. Mary’s Cool Down Lounge with NewsTalk 1130 WISN. It’s near the south end of the festival grounds and get away from the crowd in the air -conditioned lounge.
The 4th of July is fast approaching, but you don’t have to wait till then for the fireworks to start. Tonight – June 27 – at 9:30 p.m. it’s Summerfest’s Big Bang Fireworks Show.
On the 4th of July itself there’s the Annual Summerfest Salute honoring members of the United States Armed Forces. It may be hot in Milwaukee, but the temperature pales compared to what many servicemen and women encounter deployed around the globe. This year’s salute features both contemporary and traditional military bands. There will be military displays and demonstrations on the festival grounds, out in the water and in the heavens above. Active duty military and vets, along with as many as four family members, get in free at the South Gate. Gratis admission is from open to close Wednesday July Fourth. Bring along your military I.D.
Story by Jerry Chandler
(Image: Sean Hackbarth)
