Festival Overview Festival History & Future Inspired by Mayor Henry Maier’s vision of a festival for all, Summerfest continues to bring people from around the community, and around the world, together for 11 days of music, food and fun. Over 50 years since its inception, the festival has grown immensely to become the World’s Largest Music Festival. Throughout the longstanding tradition of Summerfest, the festival has seen music’s hottest acts alongside the industry’s biggest icons. Similarly, the American Family Amphitheater has captivated fans since 1987 featuring superstars and historic acts with artists such as: The Rolling Stones, Paul McCartney, The Beach Boys, Prince, Bruno Mars, Lady Gaga, Whitney Houston, Tom Petty, Metallica, Pearl Jam and The Eagles. Summerfest truly has something for everyone throughout the 75-acre grounds. From music spanning nearly every genre to wide ranging unique culinary options, shows for the whole family to a plethora of eclectic shopping experiences, Summerfest is sure to have something for every fan. In 2018, food vendors will offer over 70 new menu items. From bacon cannolis to pulled pork poppers, Wisco burgers to fish n chips cones, the grounds are loaded with remarkable new food and beverage options. The historic nature of the festival is coupled with Summerfest’s constant drive to improve Henry Maier Festival Park. 2018 will see a completely reimagined north end of the grounds with a brand new North Gate plaza, a new U.S. Cellular® Connection Stage and a new Klement’s Sausage and Beer Garden. The renovations to the North Gate and community plaza were made possible through a partnership with American Family Insurance and will connect Henry Maier Festival Park to the new Lakefront Gateway Project and downtown Milwaukee, as well as providing a new entrance for festival-goers. In the same vicinity, the entirely rebuilt U.S. Cellular® Connection Stage will include an increased capacity with a scenic backdrop of the stunning Milwaukee lakefront, a larger performance area with enhanced production capabilities, a 25-foot LED video screen for enhanced views of performances and mobile device charging amenities around the stage area. Lastly, thanks to a new partnership with Klement’s Sausage Company, the Klement's Sausage and Beer Garden will feature acoustic music from 2:00-8:00 pm daily, spotlighting local artists. Modelled as a “backyard” picnic-style area, there will be a seated lounge area, picnic tables, and barbeque grills, as well as locations to purchase Klement’s products. Summerfest can look forward to more updates in the near future. The existing Uline Warehouse will be renovated following Summerfest 2018. The new stage will include increased capacity and improved access for attendees, while featuring a backdrop of the Milwaukee skyline and the lakefront. In addition, the American Family Insurance Amphitheater will be rebuilt. Construction of the new 23,000-seat amphitheater will feature enhanced production space, additional restaurant options, new restroom facilities and new hospitality areas. Now, over five decades after its inaugural festival in 1968, Summerfest holds true to Mayor Henry Maier’s initial vision of a festival for all. Offering daily free or discounted admission promotions Summerfest is one of the most accessible and affordable festivals in the world for fans in the community and beyond. Similarly, Summerfest offers an exceptionally diverse entertainment line-up, welcoming music fans of all genres. Summerfest’s roots grow deep in the city and the festival is proud of its heritage as Milwaukee’s signature celebration of summer. 2018 American Family Insurance Amphitheater Headliners: • (6/27) Imagine Dragons with special guest Grace VanderWaal • (6/28) James Taylor & His All-Star Band with special guest Bonnie Raitt & Her Band • (6/29) Halsey & Logic with special guest NF • (6/30) Florida Georgia Line with special guest Bebe Rexha • (7/1) Dave Matthews Band • (7/3) J. Cole with special guest TBA • (7/4) Journey & Def Leppard • (7/5) Shawn Mendes with special guest Charli XCX • (7/6) Blake Shelton with special guest Luke Combs • (7/7) The Weeknd with special guest Big Boi • (7/8) Arcade Fire with special guest Manchester Orchestra Times and Dates • June 27 – July 1 / July 3 – 8, 2017 • Festival Hours: noon – midnight (daily) Summerfest Tickets • Adults and Children over 10: o Weekday Admission Ticket (valid Tuesday – Friday prior to 4:00 pm): $14 o General Admission Ticket (valid any day, any time): $21 • Seniors (60 and over): $9 • Children (10 and under): $9 • Infants (2 and under): FREE • U.S. Cellular® 3-Day Pass: $51 o Saves $12! Passes are valid for one admission per day on any 3 days of Summerfest and are non-transferable. SECURITY POLICIES Please keep the following security policies in mind as you plan your visit to Summerfest: • All visitors and employees should be prepared to comply with metal detection and other security screening requirements before entering the Summerfest grounds. • No bags larger than 9”x10”x12” or backpacks of ANY size, will be permitted on the grounds and they, along with any other prohibited items, will not be checked at guest services. All bags that adhere to the bag policy will be searched upon entering. • There will be designated screening lanes at each gate for patrons who do not have a bag. • A patron may not enter or remain on the grounds while concealing or openly carrying any knife or firearm. Failure to comply with this notice will result in immediate ejection from the festival. Visit Summerfest.com for a complete list of prohibited items and admission information. Fest Facts • Established in 1968 • Recognized as “The World’s Largest Music Festival” • Milwaukee’s cornerstone summer celebration • Hosts music industry’s hottest stars, emerging talent and local favorites • Approximately 850,000 attend yearly • Over 1,000 performances • 12 stages • Delectable food and beverages available • World-class festival setting Media Contact Information Sarah Smith Pancheri | VP Sales & Marketing • Direct: (414) 270-6438 • Cell: (414) 477-0053 Julie Stolper Dieckelman| Media Relations • Office: (414) 270-6517 • Cell: (262) 853-1602 .