Were you NOT able to make it to the Summerfest Grounds Thursday night for the Milwaukee Brewers Rally? Not to worry, we got you covered!
Check out the craziness from the Summerfest Grounds as over 7,000 people came to send the Milwaukee Brewers off to the postseason.
Here is the breakdown for the NLDS on TBS...
Arizona Diamondbacks v Milwaukee Brewers | Â Game 1 (Sat) | 1:07pm | TBS.
Arizona Diamondbacks v Milwaukee Brewers | Â Game 2 (Sun) | 4:07pm | TBS.
Milwaukee Brewers v Arizona Diamondbacks | Game 3 (Tues) | TBD | TBS
Milwaukee Brewers v Arizona Diamondbacks | *Game 4 (Wed) | TBD | TBS
Arizona Diamondbacks v Milwaukee Brewers | *Game  5 (Fri) | TBD | TBS
*if necessary
Milwaukee Brewers clinch the NL Central Division Clubhouse Celebration Video.
Our good friend Gavin DeGraw's fourth studio ablum, "Sweeter"  is available on Tuesday, Spetember 20th.
I had the chance to hang w Gavin during the Summerfest Block Party this past June. We talked about this new record, how life is on the road and lots more.
Plus, IÂ have some of the concert from the night where Gavin did a few new songs from the, "Sweeter"Â record.
Enjoy the concert and interview AND pick up his new record, "Sweeter" at www.GavinDegraw.com
I'm just getting up this fine Tuesday morning only to find out that our good friend Gavin DeGraw was assulted yesterday and hit by a taxi in New York City.
He was admitted to the hospital with a broken nose, cuts on his face and is in stable condition.
Gavin told me in an interview at the Summerfest Block Party that he was releasing his 4th studio album, "Sweeter" in September 2011 and is currently on the road w Train and Maroon 5. Get well soon Gavin!
Enjoy an  up-close look of the Briggs & Stratton Big Backyard and see the new South End redevelopment project on the Summerfest grounds.
Festival producer, Milwaukee World Festival, Inc., is currently renovating approximately 22-acres of the 75-acre site, Henry Maier Festival Park, located on the shores of Lake Michigan, with a 2-phased $25 million construction project. Phase One of the redevelopment project will feature a new 6,000 â 8,000 capacity outdoor stage/venue, the Briggs & Stratton Big Backyard, a new South Gate and Box Office, as well as new food and beverage buildings and restrooms; all set to be completed for Summerfest 2011. Phase Two of the project will commence in fall of 2011, after the festival season, and include another new venue/stage as well as food and beverage buildings, restrooms and unique lakeshore amenities for festival-goers.
Summerfest fans can secure their place in Summerfest Music History with the new Summerfest Commemorative Paver Program. Perfect for fans, families, friends, organizations, special dedications or celebrating a special event or memory, each brick paver will be inscribed with a personal message or tribute and placed in a new area that has been created as part of the South End Renovation Project, Beat Street Plaza, located just inside the new South Gate.
Fans can purchase commemorative pavers by visiting Summerfest.com/paver or calling 1-855-FEST-PVR. Three different brick sizes and designs are available beginning at $75 ranging up to $200. Additionally, replica pavers are available for purchase with each order; perfect for displaying in the home, office or lobby. The replica paver is made of the same material and includes the exact message inscribed on the installed paver at Henry Maier Festival Park. All replicas include a plaque commemorating each purchaserâs place in Summerfest history along with an official âCertificate of Recognitionâ suitable for framing. Patrons may also purchase paver gift certificates by calling 1-855-FEST-PVR.
âWe are excited to offer a new way for fans to get involved and literally become part of Summerfest history,â said Don Smiley, President and CEO, Milwaukee World Festival, Inc. âBeat Street Plaza will be a place for festival-goers and visitors from around the world to share in the memories, excitement and magic that Summerfest creates every year at Henry Maier Festival Park.â
The Summerfest Commemorative Paver Program falls on the heels of the completion of Phase One of the South End Redevelopment Project, which features a new 6,000 â 8,000 capacity outdoor stage/venue, the Briggs & Stratton Big Backyard, a new South Gate and Box Office, as well as new food and beverage buildings and restrooms; all ready for Summerfest 2011. Phase Two of the project will commence in fall of 2011, after the festival season.
Summerfest 2011 will take place June 29 â July 3 and July 5 â 10, from Noon until Midnight daily. Summerfest will be closed Monday. The Worldâs Largest Music Festival and Milwaukeeâs cornerstone summer celebration attracts the music industryâs hottest stars, emerging talent and local favorites. The Marcus Amphitheater and 10 additional stages, along with a diverse selection of food and beverage vendors, marketplaces and interactive exhibits, are set against the Lake Michigan and downtown backdrops, creating a festival experience like no other. Patrons can also enjoy Miller Lite, the Official Beer of Summerfest. For more details visit Summerfest.com
Listen to Van McNeil (Noon-4pm)Â all week (6/27-7/1) for your cue to call in and win Summerfest tickets and backstage passes to hang w Adam Levine and the guys from Maroon 5! (414.799.1099)
Summerfest officials are excited to announce details of their partnership with Kohlâs Department Stores through its Kohlâs Cares® program to present the Kohlâs Captivation Station, a new area that will feature kid-friendly performances and educational experiences during Summerfest. Sponsored by Kohlâs Cares, Kohlâs philanthropic program that sells special merchandise and donates 100 percent of the net profits to childrenâs health and education initiatives nationwide, the Kohlâs Captivation Station is located on the south end of Henry Maier Festival Park and will be open from Noon â 8:00 pm, every day of Summerfest.
Children will be able to participate in hands-on musical experiences, mini-clinics, art projects and educational demonstrations each day. Theyâll get to explore the different sounds of drums and guitars while learning tips from instructors during free clinics presented by Cascio Interstate Music, after which they can be a rock star for the day and show what theyâve learned. The Kohlâs Captivation Station is targeted for kids 12 and older but also offers programs for the whole family including the Kohlâs Color Wheels mobile unit, an art experience in partnership with the Milwaukee Art Museum and the Kohlâs Design It! Mobile Lab, an interactive experience with Discovery World where kids can learn more about design. New interactive games, art projects and activities are offered each day.
Throughout the festival, the Kohlâs Captivation Station will showcase entertaining performances from magicians, comic jugglers and bands including Radio Disney Beach Party, Marcus Monroe, Tonyâs Creepy Crawly Zoo, Sir Pinkerton and the Magnificents, Comedy Sportz and more!
âAs a family-focused retailer, Kohlâs is committed to kids health and education initiatives in the communities we serve,â said Julie Gardner, Kohlâs Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer. âWe are pleased to bring this new program to Summerfest as an exciting opportunity for families to learn while having fun at one of Milwaukeeâs premier summer events.â
In addition to the Kohlâs Captivation Station, Summerfest and Kohlâs are proud to announce that Sunday, July 3 is Kohlâs Family Day, where from Noon â 3:00 pm, the first 1,500 patrons who donate three (3) non-perishable food items for kids will receive one (1) FREE Summerfest admission ticket. All food items benefit Hunger Task Force.
Schedules for the Kohlâs Captivation Station and information about Kohlâs Family Day can be found at Henry Maier Festival Park during Summerfest and online at Summerfest.com. Since 2000, Kohlâs and the Kohlâs Cares program have combined to give approximately $38 million to support charitable initiatives in the metro-Milwaukee area. For more information on Kohlâs philanthropic efforts or to purchase Kohlâs Cares cause merchandise, visit www.Kohls.com/Cares
Gavin DeGraw joins Van McNeil to chat about his forthcoming new album, "Sweeter" in stores and avail for download Aug 9th, what fans can expect at the June 25th Summerfest Block Party Show and lots, lots more!
Summerfest officials are excited to announce several new food and beverage offerings and returning favorites for Summerfest 2011.
Trinity, a new vendor in the Briggs & Stratton Big Backyard area, will feature traditional Irish fare including Reuben Rolls, Irish Nachos, Shepherdâs Pie and a Corned Beef Sandwich.
Zaffiroâs Pizza Company, a new vendor in the Ethnic Village, located on the north end of the grounds, will serve a variety of thin crust pizzas along with salads.
SoLo, formerly named Oakland Trattoria, will continue to serve favorites including Pizza, Breadsticks and Chicken Tenders.
Pitchâs, located in the M&I Classic Rock Stage area, will introduce the French Fried Corn Chip Pie, which will be served with sour cream and salsa.
Rupenaâs, also located in the Miller Lite Oasis area, will serve a variety of handmade fresh sausages along with favorites like Spit Roasted Chicken, a Grilled Ribeye Sandwich and a Chicken Wrap.
Flanneryâs, formerly named McGillycuddyâs, will continue to serve Buffalo Wings, Chicken Tenders, Burgers and Fries in a new location on the north end of the grounds.
Sazamaâs Lakeside Grille presented by Fiduciary Management, Inc., located on the north end of the M&I Classic Rock Stage with Miller Lite will once again offer sit-down table service during Summerfest. Sazamaâs Lakeside Grille will feature an assortment of delicious appetizers, steak, poultry and seafood entrees, late night small plates and desserts, a variety of wines and gorgeous lakeshore views.
NEW BEVERAGES MGD 64 Lemonade, a limited edition low calorie beer with the taste of lemonade will be available at selected sites throughout the Summerfest grounds.
Praire Fume from Wollersheim Winery, located in Prarie du Sac, Wisconsin, will be available throughout the Marcus Amphitheater.
Yellow Tail Wines and Domaine Ste. Michelle Champagne will be poured at selected sites throughout the Summerfest grounds.
SPECIAL DATES
For the third consecutive year, Summerfest will host the Worldâs Largest Happy Hour on Wednesday, July 6 from 5:00 to 7:00 pm. Summerfest attendees will receive $1.00 off all alcoholic beverages and any 20 oz. soda or water product during the Worldâs Largest Happy Hour!
Special food and beverage discounts will again be offered on Childrenâs Fest Day on Tuesday, July 5 from Noon â 3:00 pm.
Want more Summerfest food info? Print the complete Summerfest Food and Beverage Directory, which lists food and beverages by category and by area at Summerfest.com
Summerfest officials have announced Admission Promotions for 2011, providing low or no-cost alternatives to paying the full gate price at this yearâs festival. All exchanges, unless otherwise stated, will take place at the Mid Gate Promotions Booth located across the street from the Summerfest Mid Gate. All Admission Promotions start at Noon and run while ticket supplies last OR through 3:00 pm, whichever comes first, unless otherwise noted. Patrons can also visit Summerfest.com for complete details on all Admission Promotions.
The first 5,000 patrons who enter the Summerfest gates on select dates will receive a complimentary item as an added value. All Gate Giveaway items are while supplies last.
ADMISSION PROMOTIONS FOR SUMMERFEST 2011:
Wednesday, June 29 is Johnson Controls Stomp Out Hunger Day with FOX 6. All patrons arriving between Noon and 3:00 pm who donate three (3) non-perishable food items will receive one (1) FREE admission ticket! Donations will be accepted at the Mid Gate Promotions Booth as well as the North Gate. All donations to benefit Hunger Task Force.
On Wednesday, June 29, the first 5,000 patrons will receive one (1) Uline Live from Darylâs House (Hall & Oates) Reusable Tote Bag compliments of Uline, Livefromdarylshouse.com and Summerfest. The giveaway starts at 5:00 pm while supplies last.
Thursday, June 30 is Milwaukee Journal Sentinel âShow Your Smileâ Day from Noon â 3:00 pm. The first 4,400 patrons who present the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel coupon between Noon â 3:00 pm will receive FREE admission compliments of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. The coupon will be available in the Sunday, June 26 edition of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. No copies will be accepted.
Friday, July 1 is Miller High Life â Give a Veteran a Piece of the High Life Day from Noon â 3:00 pm. The first 2,000 patrons, 21 and older, who bring six (6) Miller High Life or Miller High Life Light bottle caps will receive one (1) FREE admission ticket! Visit Millerhighlife.com for details on the National âGive a Veteran a Piece of the High Lifeâ Program.
On Friday, July 1, the first 5,000 patrons will receive one (1) U.S. Cellular®/Summerfest Bandana. The giveaway starts at 5:00 pm while supplies last.
Saturday, July 2 is Goodwill Industries Day from Noon â 3:00 pm or while supplies last. The first 1,500 patrons who make a donation to a Goodwill Store & Donation Center between June 1 â July 2, 2011 and bring in their original donation receipt will receive one (1) FREE admission ticket. One (1) admission ticket per person for each donation receipt. Only original receipts received at a Goodwill Store & Donation Center dated June 1 â July 2, 2011 will be accepted.
Sunday, July 3 is Kohlâs Family Day from Noon â 3:00 pm or while supplies last. The first 1,500 patrons who donate three (3) non-perishable food items for kids will receive one (1) FREE admission ticket! Suggested items include peanut butter, canned fruit and macaroni and cheese. All donations to benefit Hunger Task Force.
Tuesday, July 5 is Sentry Foods and Deanâs Milk & Ice Cream Childrenâs Fest Day with TODAYâS TMJ4. All patrons arriving between Noon and 3:00 pm will be admitted FREE! Spend a fun-filled day with the family enjoying free Childrenâs Fest activities including the Map of Fun and Family Ticket Package giveaways. Select food vendors will offer discounts on food & beverage items.
Wednesday, July 6 is Klementâs Day from Noon â 3:00 pm or while supplies last. The first 1,500 patrons will receive one (1) FREE admission ticket when they provide a Klementâs product label (8 oz. or larger) and a non-perishable food item.
On Wednesday, July 6, the first 5,000 patrons will receive one (1) Hooters/Summerfest Cup Koozie. The giveaway starts at 5:00 pm while supplies last.
Thursday, July 7 is Northwestern Mutual âMake a Child Smile Dayâ from Noon â 3:00 pm or while supplies last. The first 1,500 patrons who donate any new, indoor childrenâs toy, art supplies or childrenâs G or PG rated DVD movie with a $5 minimum value will receive one (1) FREE admission ticket. All items collected will be used throughout the Childrenâs Hospital of Wisconsin system. All items must be new with original tags attached and/or original packaging.
Thursday, July 7 is H.O.G.® Day from Noon â 3:00 pm. Patrons will receive one (1) FREE admission ticket when presenting a valid H.O.G.® (Harley Owners Group®) card. One admission per card. In addition, H.O.G.® members will have exclusive access to the Harley-Davidson Hospitality Deck located at the Harley-Davidson Roadhouse Stage between the hours of 4:00 â 9:00 pm on July 7. Limited space; first come, first served. Once the deck reaches capacity, access will be on a âone out, one inâ basis.
On Thursday, July 7 the first 10,000 patrons will receive one (1) coupon valid for a special offer on Brewers tickets for select games during the 2011 season. The giveaway starts at 5:00 pm while supplies last.
Friday, July 8 is Malt-O-Meal Day from Noon â 3:00 pm or while supplies last. The first 1,500 patrons will receive one (1) FREE admission ticket when presenting an original receipt from any Wisconsin grocer that specifies the purchase of any two (2) Malt-O-Meal Bag Cereals (10 oz. or larger). Receipt must be dated between June 29 and July 8, 2011. No copies or handwritten receipts will be accepted. To find the store nearest you visit Maltomeal.com.
Saturday, July 9 is CBS 58 Milwaukee / MDA Day from Noon â 3:00 pm or while supplies last. The first 1,500 patrons contributing $10 or more to the Muscular Dystrophy Association will receive one (1) FREE admission ticket.
Saturday, July 9 is Scout Day from Noon â 3:00 pm. All Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts of Wisconsin Southeast in uniform will receive one (1) FREE admission ticket at the South Gate Promotions Booth, valid from Noon â 3:00 pm.
Sunday, July 10 is Have a NYCE Day! from Noon â 3:00 pm. All patrons arriving between Noon and 3:00 pm will be admitted for FREEâ¦compliments of NYCE and Summerfest!
Grammy Award winner Jason Mraz joins Van McNeil for a chat about his July 2nd Summerfest show, openers Guster and what's up with a new record? Jason answers all that and then some. CLICK ON THE PLAYER or CLICK HERE TO LISTEN:
Jason Mraz will headline the Marcus Amphitheater on Saturday, July 2 at 6:30PM along with special guest, Guster.
Hailed as one of today’s most gifted pop troubadours, singer-songwriter Jason Mraz broke into the music scene with his debut album, Waiting for My Rocket to Come, with hit single “The Remedy (I Won’t Worry)”. Influenced by reggae, pop, folk, jazz and hip hop, his next two studio albums, Mr. A-Z and We Sing. We Dance. We Steal Things., also found major success, racking up an impressive six Grammy nominations and multi-platinum certifications around the world. He won two Grammy’s in 2010 for Best Male Pop Vocal Performance and Best Pop Collaboration with Vocals. As a songwriter, Mraz has been feted with the Songwriters Hall of Fame’s esteemed “Hal David Starlight Award,” presented to gifted songwriters who are making a significant impact in the music industry via their original songs.
He maintains a very close relationship with his fan base and is a critically acclaimed live performer having made his musical journey from coffee shops to arenas and stadiums around the world. Mraz’s hit list is growing and contains the singles “You and I Both”, “Wordplay”, “Geek in the Pink”, “I’m Yours” and “Lucky” (featuring Colbie Caillat). “I’m Yours” was a momentous #1 smash in many formats around the world, earning ASCAP’s 2010 “Song of the Year” award while also setting the record for the longest-running song in the 51-year history of Billboard’s Hot 100.
Beyond music, Jason Mraz is a photographer, activist, surfer, yogi, student and teacher. Jason and Jason Mraz Foundation’s main focus is within arenas of human trafficking and human equality, environment preservation, arts and education, and recovery and assistance. He was named the 2010 SIMA Humanitarian of the Year and is an active supporter of several charities including VH1 Save The Music, Life Rolls On, Free The Children, Musicares, True Colors Fund, SPARC, his hometown arts program and many more.
Joining Mraz are American alternative rockers, Guster, a band known for their live performances and humorous stage banter. With six studio albums and hit singles including “Fa Fa”, “Barrel of a Gun”, and “Satellite” the band’s long standing career has not slowed down. Guster’s dedicated fan base has spread rapidly over the past decade and fans know when they see the band perform live they’re in for a unique performance that has a style all its own.
Tickets go on sale this Saturday, June 4 at 11:00AM and include Summerfest admission. All reserved seats are $37 at the Marcus Amphitheater Box Office. Tickets can be purchased at the Marcus Amphitheater Box Office, Ticketmaster Ticket Centers, Walmart stores, online at Ticketmaster.com and by phone at 1.800.745.3000 (live Ticketmaster Agent) or 1.866.448.7849 (“Ticketmaster Express” automated phone line). Patrons may also utilize “ticketfast” at Ticketmaster.com to print bar coded concert tickets from home. Convenience fees may be added to all purchases.
Due to the construction project on the south end of the grounds, the Marcus Amphitheater Box Office has been temporarily relocated to the intersection of Harbor Drive and Chicago Avenue at the Mid-Gate of the festival grounds. The building on the north side of the Mid-Gate will serve as the Marcus Amphitheater Box Office.
Summerfest 2011 will take place June 29 – July 3 and July 5 – 10, from Noon until Midnight. Summerfest will be closed Monday. The World’s Largest Music Festival and Milwaukee’s cornerstone summer celebration attracts the music industry’s hottest stars, emerging talent and local favorites. The Marcus Amphitheater and 10 additional stages, along with a diverse selection of food and beverage vendors, marketplaces and interactive exhibits, are set against the Lake Michigan and downtown backdrops, creating a festival experience like no other. Patrons can also enjoy Miller Lite, the Official Beer of Summerfest. For more details visit Summerfest.com
Summerfest officials are excited to announce the eleventh and final headliner slated for Summerfest 2011. Jason Mraz will headline the Marcus Amphitheater on Saturday, July 2 at 6:30PM along with special guest, Guster.
Hailed as one of todayâs most gifted pop troubadours, singer-songwriter Jason Mraz broke into the music scene with his debut album, Waiting for My Rocket to Come, with hit single âThe Remedy (I Wonât Worry)â. Influenced by reggae, pop, folk, jazz and hip hop, his next two studio albums, Mr. A-Z and We Sing. We Dance. We Steal Things., also found major success, racking up an impressive six Grammy nominations and multi-platinum certifications around the world. He won two Grammyâs in 2010 for Best Male Pop Vocal Performance and Best Pop Collaboration with Vocals. As a songwriter, Mraz has been feted with the Songwriters Hall of Fameâs esteemed âHal David Starlight Award,â presented to gifted songwriters who are making a significant impact in the music industry via their original songs.
He maintains a very close relationship with his fan base and is a critically acclaimed live performer having made his musical journey from coffee shops to arenas and stadiums around the world. Mrazâs hit list is growing and contains the singles âYou and I Bothâ, âWordplayâ, âGeek in the Pinkâ, âIâm Yoursâ and âLuckyâ (featuring Colbie Caillat). âIâm Yoursâ was a momentous #1 smash in many formats around the world, earning ASCAPâs 2010 âSong of the Yearâ award while also setting the record for the longest-running song in the 51-year history of Billboardâs Hot 100.
Beyond music, Jason Mraz is a photographer, activist, surfer, yogi, student and teacher. Jason and Jason Mraz Foundationâs main focus is within arenas of human trafficking and human equality, environment preservation, arts and education, and recovery and assistance. He was named the 2010 SIMA Humanitarian of the Year and is an active supporter of several charities including VH1 Save The Music, Life Rolls On, Free The Children, Musicares, True Colors Fund, SPARC, his hometown arts program and many more.
Joining Mraz are American alternative rockers, Guster, a band known for their live performances and humorous stage banter. With six studio albums and hit singles including âFa Faâ, âBarrel of a Gunâ, and âSatelliteâ the bandâs long standing career has not slowed down. Gusterâs dedicated fan base has spread rapidly over the past decade and fans know when they see the band perform live theyâre in for a unique performance that has a style all its own.
Tickets go on sale this Saturday, June 4 at 11:00AM and include Summerfest admission. All reserved seats are $37 at the Marcus Amphitheater Box Office. Tickets can be purchased at the Marcus Amphitheater Box Office, Ticketmaster Ticket Centers, Walmart stores, online at Ticketmaster.com and by phone at 1.800.745.3000 (live Ticketmaster Agent) or 1.866.448.7849 (âTicketmaster Expressâ automated phone line). Patrons may also utilize âticketfastâ at Ticketmaster.com to print bar coded concert tickets from home. Convenience fees may be added to all purchases.
Due to the construction project on the south end of the grounds, the Marcus Amphitheater Box Office has been temporarily relocated to the intersection of Harbor Drive and Chicago Avenue at the Mid-Gate of the festival grounds. The building on the north side of the Mid-Gate will serve as the Marcus Amphitheater Box Office.
Summerfest 2011 will take place June 29 â July 3 and July 5 â 10, from Noon until Midnight. Summerfest will be closed Monday. The Worldâs Largest Music Festival and Milwaukeeâs cornerstone summer celebration attracts the music industryâs hottest stars, emerging talent and local favorites. The Marcus Amphitheater and 10 additional stages, along with a diverse selection of food and beverage vendors, marketplaces and interactive exhibits, are set against the Lake Michigan and downtown backdrops, creating a festival experience like no other. Patrons can also enjoy Miller Lite, the Official Beer of Summerfest. For more details visit Summerfest.com
Summerfest officials are excited to announce some exciting low cost package alternatives that offer a significant savings on admission to Summerfest and to other local attractions and businesses.Â
Milwaukee Brewers and Summerfest 2 for $24 Ticket Package
Summerfest and the Brewers have teamed up again to offer a ticket package that includes one Summerfest General Admission ticket, good any time during Summerfest 2011, and one Terrace Reserved ticket to the Brewers home games against the Rays & Twins June 20-24. The package also includes a special edition Brewers-Summerfest long sleeve t-shirt. To order, visit brewers.com/summerfest or call (414) 902-4000. This offer ends June 24.
Harley - Davidson Museum® and Summerfest Rock-N-Roll 2-For-$20 Ticket Package
The package includes one Summerfest General Admission ticket, good any time during Summerfest 2011, and one adult admission to the Harley-Davidson Museum, good through December 31, 2011. The $20 package represents a collective savings of $11. Patrons can order online now at Summerfest.com through June 10, 2011.
Cost Cutters Family Hair Salon Ticket Offer
Beginning now, spend $30 or more at any participating Milwaukee area Cost Cutters salon and receive one free Summerfest General Admission ticket while supplies last. Visit Costcutters.com for a location nearest you.
The Business Journal Power Lunch
All patrons presenting an original coupon (printed in the Business Journal) will receive one (1) FREE admission ticket valid Noon â 2:00 pm any weekday (7 days). Duplications will not be accepted, original coupons only.
Summerfest 2011 will take place June 29 â July 3 and July 5 â 10, from Noon until Midnight daily. Summerfest will be closed Monday. The Worldâs Largest Music Festival and Milwaukeeâs cornerstone summer celebration attracts the music industryâs hottest stars, emerging talent and local favorites. The Marcus Amphitheater and 10 additional stages, along with a diverse selection of food and beverage vendors, marketplaces and interactive exhibits, are set against the Lake Michigan and downtown backdrops, creating a festival experience like no other. Patrons can also enjoy Miller Lite, the Official Beer of Summerfest. For more details visit Summerfest.com
The Cascio Interstate Music Groove Stage with Onion/A.V. Club Milwaukee will return in 2011 with eleven days of live, local and original music, with many bands originating from the Milwaukee/Wisconsin area.
New this year, the Cascio Interstate Music Groove Stage with Onion/A.V. Club Milwaukee will be improved with a new location, featuring a larger stage and audience area. The stage will now be located near the lake walk on the north end of the festival between the Summerfest Rock Stage and U.S. Cellular® Connection Stage.
The 2011 lineup is more than impressive, spanning many diverse genres from indie and alternative to hard rock, funk and acoustic sets. The stage will feature the following headlining performers:
June 29 | 8:30 pm | The Right Now
June 30 | 9:00 pm | The Jeanna Salzer Band
July 1 | 9:00 pm | Iâm Not A Pilot
July 2 | 9:00 pm | The Invaders
July 3 | 9:00 pm | The Uptown Savages
July 5 | 9:00 pm | The Fatty Acids
July 6 | 9:00 pm | Brighton, MA
July 7 | 9:00 pm | Mark Mallman
July 8 | 9:00 pm | John The Savage
July 9 | 9:00 pm | Into Arcadia
July 10 | 9:00 pm | Surgeons In Heat
Summerfest 2011 will take place June 29 â July 3 and July 5 â 10, from Noon until Midnight daily. Summerfest will be closed Monday. The Worldâs Largest Music Festival and Milwaukeeâs cornerstone summer celebration attracts the music industryâs hottest stars, emerging talent and local favorites. The Marcus Amphitheater and 10 additional stages, along with a diverse selection of food and beverage vendors, marketplaces and interactive exhibits, are set against the Lake Michigan and downtown backdrops, creating a festival experience like no other. Patrons can also enjoy Miller Lite, the Official Beer of Summerfest. For more details visit Summerfest.com
Summerfest officials are excited to announce the tenth headliner slated for Summerfest 2011.
 Britney Spears will headline the Marcus Amphitheater on Saturday, July 9 at 7:00PM along with special guest, Nicki Minaj.
The show will be part of the highly anticipated âFemme Fataleâ tour that comes in support of her most recent release Femme Fatale which includes the hit singles âTill the World Endsâ and âHold It Against Meâ. Femme Fatale debuted at Number One on the Billboard 200, making Spears the only female artist ever to have six number one debut albums, and have seven albums debut in the top two spots. Britney Spears has sold over 100 million records worldwide, making her one of the best-selling music artists in the history of contemporary music. Her hit list is extensive and includes singles like ââ¦Baby One More Timeâ, âOops!...I Did It Againâ, âToxicâ, âGimme Moreâ and âWomanizerâ. She is also recognized as the best-selling female artist of the first decade of the 21st century, as well as the fifth overall. In June 2010, Britney was ranked sixth on Forbes list of the 100 Most Powerful and Influential celebrities in the world.
Joining Spears on tour is hip hop recording artist, Nicki Minaj, whoâs debut studio album, Pink Friday became a commercial success and was certified platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) a month after its release. Her single âYour Loveâ reached Number One on the Billboard Hot Rap Songs chart, making Minaj the first female artist to top the chart unaccompanied since 2002.
The ladies will also be joined by Jessie and the Toy Boys and Nervo, on the all-female lineup.
Tickets go on sale Saturday, May 21 at 11:00AM and include Summerfest admission. Tickets can be purchased at the Marcus Amphitheater Box Office, Ticketmaster Ticket Centers, Walmart stores, online at Ticketmaster.com and by phone at 1.800.745.3000 (live Ticketmaster Agent) or 1.866.448.7849 (âTicketmaster Expressâ automated phone line). Patrons may also utilize âticketfastâ at Ticketmaster.com to print bar coded concert tickets from home. Convenience fees may be added to all purchases.
Summerfest 2011 will take place June 29 â July 3 and July 5 â 10, from Noon until Midnight daily. Summerfest will be closed Monday. The Worldâs Largest Music Festival and Milwaukeeâs cornerstone summer celebration attracts the music industryâs hottest stars, emerging talent and local favorites. The Marcus Amphitheater and 10 additional stages, along with a diverse selection of food and beverage vendors, marketplaces and interactive exhibits, are set against the Lake Michigan and downtown backdrops, creating a festival experience like no other. Patrons can also enjoy Miller Lite, the Official Beer of Summerfest. For more details visit Summerfest.com
Jo Joâs Martini Lounge with Miller Lite will return in 2011 as a popular hot spot, offering Jo Joâs specialty martinis and great local entertainment.
Jo Joâs Martini Lounge is located on the South end of the grounds, adjacent to the Marcus Amphitheater. Patrons can enjoy traditional favorites like the Cosmopolitan and Chocolate martini along with Miller beer. In addition to the martini menu, the lounge will also feature live music starting at 4:00 pm daily. The lineup includes the following headlining performers:
June 29 | 8:00 pm |Hot Sauce
June 30Â | 8:00 pm | Sweet Tarts
July 1 | 8:00 pm | Eddie Butts
July 2 | 8:00 pm | Rhythm Kings
July 3 | 8:00 pm | 5 Card Studs
July 5 | 8:00 pm | The Crisis
July 6 | 8:00 pm | Old Mil
July 7 | 8:00 pm | Cold Sweat and The Brew City Horns
July 8 | 8:00 pm | The Toys
July 9Â | 8:00 pm | Love Monkeys
July 10 | 8:00 pm | Barbeez
Summerfest 2011 will take place June 29 â July 3 and July 5 â 10, from Noon until Midnight daily. Summerfest will be closed Monday. The Worldâs Largest Music Festival and Milwaukeeâs cornerstone summer celebration attracts the music industryâs hottest stars, emerging talent and local favorites. The Marcus Amphitheater and 10 additional stages, along with a diverse selection of food and beverage vendors, marketplaces and interactive exhibits, are set against the Lake Michigan and downtown backdrops, creating a festival experience like no other. Patrons can also enjoy Miller Lite, the Official Beer of Summerfest. For more details visit Summerfest.com
Summerfest officials announced the sixth list of stage headlining entertainment for Summerfest 2011. The Harley-Davidson Roadhouse with Miller Genuine Draft will once again bring a diverse mix of performers to Summerfest.
The stage will feature the following headliners:
June 29 | 10:00 pm | Buddy Guy
June 30 | 10:00 pm | Owl City
July 1 | 8:00 pm | Los Lonely Boys
10:00 pm | Los Lobos
July 2 | 10:00 pm | Stephen Marley
July 3 | 10:00 pm | Ben Harper
July 5 | 10:00 pm | Wiz Khalifa
July 6 | 9:30 pm | Morris Day and the Time
July 7 | 8:00 pm | Old 97âs
10:00 pm| G. Love & Special Sauce
July 8 | 5:00 pm | Gaelic Storm
10:00 pm | Dropkick Murphys
July 9 | 10:00 pm | The Flaming Lips
July 10 | 9:30 pm | Grupo Niche
Summerfest 2011 will take place June 29 â July 3 and July 5 â 10, from Noon until Midnight daily. Summerfest will be closed Monday. The Worldâs Largest Music Festival and Milwaukeeâs cornerstone summer celebration attracts the music industryâs hottest stars, emerging talent and local favorites. The Marcus Amphitheater and 10 additional stages, along with a diverse selection of food and beverage vendors, marketplaces and interactive exhibits, are set against the Lake Michigan and downtown backdrops, creating a festival experience like no other. Patrons can also enjoy Miller Lite, the Official Beer of Summerfest. For more details visit Summerfest.com
Summerfest officials announced the fifth list of stage headlining entertainment for Summerfest 2011 at the U.S. Cellular® Connection Stage. The U.S. Cellular® Connection Stage with Leinenkugelâs will once again prove to be a primary attraction for new and alternative music as well as interactive entertainment technology.
The U.S. Cellular® Connection Stage with Leinenkugelâs will feature the following headlining performers:
June 29 | 10:00 pm | Jackâs Mannequin
June 30 | 10:00 pm | Panic! At The Disco
July 1 | 10:00 pm | Anberlin
July 2 | 10:00 pm | The Airborne Toxic Event
July 3 | 10:00 pm | TBA
July 5 | 10:00 pm | Switchfoot
July 6 | 10:00 pm | Tonic
July 7 | 10:00 pm | Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros
July 8 | 10:00 pm | Crash Kings
July 9 | 10:00 pm | Alkaline Trio
July 10 | 10:00 pm | The Bravery
Summerfest 2011 will take place June 29 â July 3 and July 5 â 10, from Noon until Midnight daily. Summerfest will be closed Monday. The Worldâs Largest Music Festival and Milwaukeeâs cornerstone summer celebration attracts the music industryâs hottest stars, emerging talent and local favorites. The Marcus Amphitheater and 10 additional stages, along with a diverse selection of food and beverage vendors, marketplaces and interactive exhibits, are set against the Lake Michigan and downtown backdrops, creating a festival experience like no other. Patrons can also enjoy Miller Lite, the Official Beer of Summerfest. For more details visit Summerfest.com
Summerfest officials announced the fourth list of stage headlining entertainment for Summerfest 2011 at the Potawatomi Bingo Casino Stage & Pavilion Headliner Release Party tonight. The Potawatomi Bingo Casino Stage & Pavilion with Miller High Life and will once again bring an eclectic lineup to this yearâs festival.
The Potawatomi Bingo Casino Stage & Pavilion with Miller High Life will feature the following headlining performers:
June 29 | 10:00 pm | Max Weinberg Experience
June 30 | 10:00 pm | Wanda Jackson
July 1 | 10:00 pm | Taj Mahal
July 2 | 10:00 pm | Cowboy Mouth
July 3 | 10:00 pm | Don Felder
July 5 | 9:30 pm | Indigenous
July 6 | 10:00 pm | The Spinners
July 7 | 10:00 pm | Yonder Mountain String Band
July 8 | 10:00 pm | Sharon Jones and the Dap Kings
July 9 | 10:00 pm | De La Soul
July 10 | 9:30 pm | Todd Rundgren
Summerfest 2011 will take place June 29 â July 3 and July 5 â 10, from Noon until Midnight daily. Summerfest will be closed Monday. The Worldâs Largest Music Festival and Milwaukeeâs cornerstone summer celebration attracts the music industryâs hottest stars, emerging talent and local favorites. The Marcus Amphitheater and 10 additional stages, along with a diverse selection of food and beverage vendors, marketplaces and interactive exhibits, are set against the Lake Michigan and downtown backdrops, creating a festival experience like no other. Patrons can also enjoy Miller Lite, the Official Beer of Summerfest. For more details visit http://www.Summerfest.com
Summerfest officials announced the third list of stage headlining entertainment for Summerfest 2011 at the M&I Classic Rock Stage Headliner Release Party. The M&I Classic Rock Stage with Miller Lite is located at the south end of Henry Maier Festival Park.
The M&I Classic Rock Stage with Miller Lite will feature the following headlining performers:
June 29 | 10:00 pm | Hall and Oates
June 30 | 9:00 pm | REO Speedwagon
July 1 | 10:00 pm | Styx
July 2 | 10:00 pm| Loretta Lynn
July 3 | 9:00 pm | Blue Oyster Cult
July 5 | 9:00 pm | Cinderella
July 6 | 9:00 pm | Peter Frampton
July 7 | 9:00 pm | Kansas
July 8 | 10:00 pm | Leon Russell
July 9 | 10:00 pm | TBA
July 10 | 9:00 pm | Toots and the Maytals
The headliner for July 9 will be announced in the near future. Check Summerfest.com for updates. All performers and show times are subject to change.
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The next Headliner Release Party for the Potawatomi Bingo Casino Stage & Pavilion will be held Thursday, April 21 from 5:00 â 7:00 PM in the Northern Lights Theater at Potawatomi Bingo Casino, 1721 W. Canal Street, Milwaukee. You must be 21 years of age or older to attend this event. Everyone in attendance will receive a FREE Summerfest Opening Day Ticket and the first 100 attendees will receive a Potawatomi Goodie Bag that includes a Reward Play coupon. There will also be live music, happy hour specials, raffle drawings that include General Admission Summerfest tickets, Marcus Amphitheater tickets to see Def Leppard on Tuesday, July 5, band merchandise and more!
Summerfest 2011 will take place June 29 â July 3 and July 5 â 10, from Noon until Midnight daily. Summerfest will be closed Monday. The Worldâs Largest Music Festival and Milwaukeeâs cornerstone summer celebration attracts the music industryâs hottest stars, emerging talent and local favorites. The Marcus Amphitheater and 10 additional stages, along with a diverse selection of food and beverage vendors, marketplaces and interactive exhibits, are set against the Lake Michigan and downtown backdrops, creating a festival experience like no other. Patrons can also enjoy Miller Lite, the Official Beer of Summerfest. For more details visit Summerfest.com
Summerfest officials announced the second list of stage headlining entertainment for Summerfest 2011 at the Miller Lite Oasis Headliner Release Party tonight. Once again, the Miller Lite Oasis will showcase a diverse and eclectic mix of performers.
The Miller Lite Oasis will feature the following headlining performers:
June 29 | 10:00 pm | Matisyahu
June 30 | 10:00 pm | Better Than Ezra
July 1 | 10:00 pm | Girl Talk
July 2 | 10:00 pm | Maroon 5
July 3 | 10:00 pm | Rise Against
July 5 | 9:30 pm | Paul Rodgers
July 6 | 10:00 pm | O.A.R.
July 7 | 8:30 pm | Here Come The Mummies
July 7 | 10:00 pm | Michael Franti
July 8 | 10:00 pm | Goo Goo Dolls
July 9 | 10:00 pm | TBA
July 10 | 10:00 pm | 311
The headliner for July 9 will be announced in the near future. Check Summerfest.com for updates. All performers and show times are subject to change.
The next Headliner Release Party for the M&I Classic Rock Stage will be held Tuesday, April 19 from 5:00 â 7:00 PM in the Pilot House at Discovery World, 500 N. Harbor Dr., Milwaukee. There will be live music, appetizers and raffle drawings that include General Admission Summerfest tickets, Marcus Amphitheater tickets to see Peter Gabriel on Wednesday, June 29, band merchandise and more! Additionally, the Milwaukee High School of the Arts and Elm Creative Arts School will be on hand to accept a donation to help fund their music department needs.
Summerfest 2011 will take place June 29 â July 3 and July 5 â 10, from Noon until Midnight daily. Summerfest will be closed Monday. The Worldâs Largest Music Festival and Milwaukeeâs cornerstone summer celebration attracts the music industryâs hottest stars, emerging talent and local favorites. The Marcus Amphitheater and 10 additional stages, along with a diverse selection of food and beverage vendors, marketplaces and interactive exhibits, are set against the Lake Michigan and downtown backdrops, creating a festival experience like no other. Patrons can also enjoy Miller Lite, the Official Beer of Summerfest. For more details visit Summerfest.com
Summerfest officials announced the first list of stage headlining entertainment for Summerfest 2011 at the Briggs & Stratton Big Backyard Headliner Release Party tonight. The Briggs & Stratton Big Backyard with Coors Light and Tap Milwaukee is once again proud to showcase a diverse selection of artists and music genres.
The Briggs & Stratton Big Backyard with Coors Light and Tap Milwaukee will feature the following headlining performers:
June 29 | 10:00 pm | Meat Loaf
June 30 | 8:00 pm | George Clinton
July 1 | 10:00 pm | Third Eye Blind
July 2 | 10:00 pm | Phil Vassar
July 3 | 6:00 pm | Ike Reilly
July 3 | 8:00 pm | Alejandro Escovedo
July 3 | 10:00 pm | Jayhawks
July 5 | 10:00 pm | The Wailers
July 6 | 10:00 pm | Danny Gokey
July 7 | 10:00 pm | Raphael Saadiq
July 8 | 10:00 pm | TBA
July 9 | 7:30 pm | Pat McCurdy
July 9 | 10:00 pm | The BoDeans
July 10 | 8:00 pm | Willy Porter
July 10 | 9:30 pm | Amos Lee
The headliner for July 8 will be announced in the near future. Please check Summerfest.com for updates. All performers and show times are subject to change.
The Briggs & Stratton Big Backyard Headliner Release Party took place today from 4:00 â 6:00 PM. If you missed this event, you missed a live surprise appearance by Phil Vassar, video messages from Meat Loaf and Ike Reilly, autographed merchandise and Marcus Amphitheater ticket giveaways and more!
The next Headliner Release Party for the Miller Lite Oasis will be held Thursday, April 14 from 5:00 â 7:00 PM at the Miller Tour Center, 4251 W. State St., Milwaukee. Fest-fans, ages 21 and older, will get 3 free samples of beer (must present ID) and the first 300 people (21+) to arrive will receive a Miller Valley Mini Mug. There will also be live music, appetizers and raffle drawings that include General Admission Summerfest tickets, Miller Lite Oasis Stage Right Deck Passes, Marcus Amphitheater tickets to see Jason Aldean on Friday, July 8, $100 Gift Certificate to the Miller Tour Center Gift Shop, band merchandise and more!
Dates for the remainder of the Headliner Release Parties are listed below. Details will be released weekly.
Tuesday, April 19 M&I Classic Rock Stage
Thursday, April 21 Potawatomi Bingo Casino Stage & Pavilion
Tuesday, April 26 U.S. Cellular Connection Stage
Thursday, April 28 Harley-Davidson Roadhouse
Tuesday, May 3 Rock Stage
Wednesday, May 4 Jo Joâs Martini Lounge
Thursday, May 5 Cascio Interstate Music Groove Garage
In conjunction with its Big Backyard Stage at Summerfest, Briggs & Stratton is hosting a âBattle of the Bandsâ site on Facebook and encouraging music enthusiasts from around the world to enter the competition. The winning band will perform live at Summerfest at the Big Backyard Stage on Saturday, July 2. Music lovers are encouraged to log on to www.briggsbattleofthebands.com from May 13 â May 27 to vote for your favorite band.
The Briggs & Stratton Big Backyard with Coors Light and Tap Milwaukee is just one example of how Briggs & Stratton continually demonstrates its commitment to the community. Briggs & Stratton continues its longstanding commitment of supporting the arts and Summerfest, health and wellness initiatives like Briggs and Alâs Run & Walk and various youth education programs. Briggs & Stratton contributes year round to improve lives in Milwaukee and Southeastern Wisconsin communities.
Summerfest 2011 will take place June 29 â July 3 and July 5 â 10, from Noon until Midnight daily. Summerfest will be closed Monday. The Worldâs Largest Music Festival and Milwaukeeâs cornerstone summer celebration attracts the music industryâs hottest stars, emerging talent and local favorites. The Marcus Amphitheater and 10 additional stages, along with a diverse selection of food and beverage vendors, marketplaces and interactive exhibits, are set against the Lake Michigan and downtown backdrops, creating a festival experience like no other. Patrons can also enjoy Miller Lite, the Official Beer of Summerfest. For more details visit Summerfest.com
Summerfest officials are pleased to have held admission and beer prices for multiple years while making significant improvements to the grounds, including the development of the Harley-Davidson Roadhouse and Miller Lite Oasis, while continuing to showcase an amazing scope and caliber of musical talent at Summerfest.Â
2011 marks the fifth straight year Milwaukee World Festival, Inc. has managed to not raise Summerfest Gate Admission prices. In 2006, $12 General Admission increased to $15, while a new significantly less expensive $8 Weekday (prior to 4:00pm) Admission ticket was also introduced.
Gate Admission ticket prices will not change in 2011, with pricing as follows:
$15 General Admission
$8 Weekday Admission (prior to 4:00pm)
3 for $33 Pass (valid for admission on three separate days)
Festival-fans can save money on ticket purchases when they take advantage of advance sale discounted pricing, featuring General Admission tickets for only $13 and Weekday (prior to 4:00pm) Admission tickets for only $6, if purchased before May 1 on Summerfest.com
As part of Summerfestâs commitment to the community, the event will maintain its plan to develop free or discounted admission promotions on every day of the festival. These admission promotions will be listed on Summerfest.com as they are confirmed. Additionally, as part of its âLetâs Fest!â campaign, Summerfest is giving away 100,000 General Admission tickets, including 44,000 new limited edition commemorative Summerfest Opening Day tickets via promotions and events. Fest-fans are encouraged to connect with Summerfest on Facebook and Twitter for numerous ways to win and receive the free tickets.
Summerfest has not raised beer prices since 2008. Throughout this period, the organization has continued to experience annual increased operating expenses related to entertainer and production expenditures for Summerfest. In 2011, MWF will spend over 9% more on entertainers than in 2008, which was the last time beer prices were adjusted. Moving forward, a 2011 price adjustment on select beverages is necessary in order to continue to pay the perpetually increasing talent fees and deliver the scope and the quality of entertainment Summerfest patrons have come to expect.Â
New beer pricing for 2011 will be $5.00 for a 16 ounce cup of draft beer (previously $4.50) and $6.50 for a 16 ounce bottle of beer (previously $6.00). Â
Considering new 2011 adjusted prices, Summerfestâs beer prices continue to remain among the lowest in Southeastern Wisconsin area sports and entertainment venues and attractions for bottled and draft beer.Â
Summerfest offers festival-goers a variety of coveted food and beverage festival favorites each year. Pricing for all food vendor menus is being finalized, however, pricing on water and soda products as well as the following festival favorites have not changed:Â
·        Sazâs Sour Cream & Chive Fries - $3.25
·        Sazâs Mozzarella Marinara - $3.25
·        Charcoal Grillâs Bacon Wrap Water Chestnuts - $6.00
·        Greek Villageâs Gyros - $5.75
·        Martinoâs Chicago Style Hot Dog with Fries - $5.00Â
·        Milleâs Meat Ball Sandwich - $5.50
·        The Venice Clubâs - Eggplant Strips - $5.75
·        La Perlaâs Salsa and Chips - $3.50
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Summerfest 2011 will take place June 29 â July 3 and July 5 â 10, from Noon until Midnight daily. For the first time in the eventâs history, Summerfest will open on a Wednesday and not operate on Monday. The Worldâs Largest Music Festival and Milwaukeeâs cornerstone summer celebration attracts the music industryâs hottest stars, emerging talent and local favorites. The Marcus Amphitheater and 10 additional stages, along with a diverse selection of food and beverage vendors, marketplaces and interactive exhibits, are set against the Lake Michigan and downtown backdrops, creating a festival experience like no other. Patrons can also enjoy Miller Lite, the Official Beer of Summerfest. For more details visit Summerfest.com
Summerfest officials have announced the eighth headliner slated for Summerfest 2011. Peter Gabriel will headline the Marcus Amphitheater on opening day, Wednesday, June 29 at 8:30PM. Gabriel will be accompanied by the New Blood Orchestra, including members of the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra.
Following the success of last yearâs sell out concerts, Peter Gabriel returns to the USA and Canada for a 12 date tour and this time out he will apply the orchestral makeover to his own catalogue of hits. The stunning musical backdrop leaves Gabrielâs vocals center-stage and bare, stripped of the usual Rock ân Roll clothing, no loud guitars or booming drums to hide behind. Raw and soul-baring, yet passionate and often joyous, Gabrielâs classic songs take new shape and extra meaning.
The tour is an opportunity to experience the reinvention of an iconic song selection including âRed Rainâ, âSan Jacintoâ, âDigging in the Dirtâ and âDonât Give Upâ before the album release of New Blood later this year.
Tickets go on sale Saturday, April 2 at 10:00AM and include Summerfest admission. Tickets can be purchased at the Marcus Amphitheater Box Office, Ticketmaster Ticket Centers, Walmart stores, online at Ticketmaster.com and by phone at 1.800.745.3000 (live Ticketmaster Agent) or 1.866.448.7849 (âTicketmaster Expressâ automated phone line). Patrons may also utilize âticketfastâ at Ticketmaster.com to print bar coded concert tickets from home. Convenience fees may be added to all purchases.
One of my all-time favorite Peter Gabriel songs. Before Paula Cole went solo. Come Talk To Me!
Due to the construction project on the south end of the grounds, the Marcus Amphitheater Box Office has been temporarily relocated to the intersection of Harbor Drive and Chicago Avenue at the Mid-Gate of the festival grounds. The building on the north side of the Mid-Gate will serve as the Marcus Amphitheater Box Office.
Summerfest 2011 will take place June 29 â July 3 and July 5 â 10, from Noon until Midnight daily. Summerfest will be closed Monday. The Worldâs Largest Music Festival and Milwaukeeâs cornerstone summer celebration attracts the music industryâs hottest stars, emerging talent and local favorites. The Marcus Amphitheater and 10 additional stages, along with a diverse selection of food and beverage vendors, marketplaces and interactive exhibits, are set against the Lake Michigan and downtown backdrops, creating a festival experience like no other. Patrons can also enjoy Miller Lite, the Official Beer of Summerfest. For more details visit Summerfest.com.
Winner opens for major headliner on new Briggs & Stratton Big Backyard stage at the Worldâs Largest Music Festival, Summerfest in Milwaukee, WI!Â
Milwaukee-based,  Briggs & Stratton, manufacturer of air-cooled engines for outdoor power equipment, and Summerfest, recognized as the Worldâs Largest Music Festival, today announced entries for the third annual Briggs & Stratton Battle of the Bands competition are now being accepted at briggsbattleofthebands.com, the contestâs official Facebook page. Music fans and bands are encouraged to âlikeâ the page and share it with their friends. In just two years, the contest has had more than 1,000 bands enter online and nearly 1 million votes from music fans worldwide. The winner receives an all-expenses-paid trip to play Summerfest on July 2nd, rock-star treatment during their stay and helps open for a major headliner on Briggs & Strattonâs Big Backyard stage at Summerfest.     Â
âWe are very excited about this yearâs Briggs & Stratton Battle of the Bands and all of the great talent we know will be submitting songs on our Facebook page,â said Todd Teske, President and CEO of Briggs & Stratton. âWeâre especially excited to debut our new Big Backyard stage with a large video screen and gorgeous green space. The Briggs & Stratton Battle of the Bands appeals to many consumers who enjoy music as much as they enjoy our reliable and easy-to-use products that get outdoor work done quickly so they can relax and enjoy life.â
Last yearâs winner, This is Energy, an alternative band from St. Louis, opened for Gavin DeGraw at the Big Backyard during Summerfest.Â
Band members met DeGraw, participated in a press tour, stayed at a luxury hotel, were transported by limousine and much more. This is Energy has since relocated to Nashville, Tenn., to be closer to the recording industry. A series of videos promoting this yearâs contest were recorded in Nashville with the band and will appear over the next few weeks on Briggs & Strattonâs Facebook contest page.
âIf youâre in a band that wants to be in front of thousands of fans, performing at Summerfest, the Worldâs Largest Music Festival, the Briggs & Stratton Battle of the Bands can help make that happen,â said Don Smiley, President and CEO of Milwaukee World Festival, Inc. âThis fan-voted contest is a great opportunity for one band to ultimately be front and center at the Big Gig, and this yearâs new and improved Briggs & Stratton Big Backyard stage will only add to all of the excitement.âÂ
Bands entering the contest should upload their music entries as soon as possible to briggsbattleofthebands.com. Fans vote for their favorite band on Facebook from March 14 to 11:59 p.m. on April 15. The top 10 bands selected by online voters will then be announced. A selection committee will determine three finalists by May 7. Fan voting will then resume on May 13 to choose a winner, who will be announced on May 28. Entry into the contest is free and additional rules/regulations are also posted online.
Summerfest officials are excited to announce the fifth headliner slated for Summerfest 2011. Def Leppard will headline the Marcus Amphitheater on Tuesday, July 5 at 7:30PM along with special guest, Heart.
Great Britainâs premiere arena rock band will make their triumphant return to the U.S. this summer. Leppard's influential career includes numerous hit singles and ground-breaking multi-platinum albums, including two of the best-selling albums of all time, Pyromania and Hysteria. With more than 65 million albums sold worldwide and two prestigious Diamond Awards to their credit Def Leppard - Joe Elliott (vocals), Vivian Campbell (guitar), Phil Collen (guitar), Rick "Sav" Savage (bass) and Rick Allen (drums) - continues to be one of the most important forces in rock music. The group's spectacular live shows, filled with powerful melodic rock anthems, have become synonymous with their name and it is clear that the anthemic rock megastars have earned their stripes as one of the most enduring and successful touring acts in history.
Joining Def Leppard on tour are Seattle rock legends, Heart, who showed the world that women can rock when they stormed the charts with "Crazy on Youâ, "Magic Manâ, "Barracudaâ, âAloneâ and many more, a stream of hits showcasing the sistersâ enormous talents as both musicians and singers, selling more than 30 million records.
Tickets go on sale Saturday, March 12th at 11:00AM and include Summerfest admission. Tickets can be purchased at the Marcus Amphitheater Box Office, Ticketmaster Ticket Centers, Walmart stores, online at Ticketmaster.com and by phone at 1.800.745.3000 (live Ticketmaster Agent) or 1.866.448.7849 (âTicketmaster Expressâ automated phone line). Patrons may also utilize âticketfastâ at Ticketmaster.com to print bar coded concert tickets from home. Convenience fees may be added to all purchases.
Due to the construction project on the south end of the grounds, the Marcus Amphitheater Box Office has been temporarily relocated to the intersection of Harbor Drive and Chicago Avenue at the Mid-Gate of the festival grounds. The building on the north side of the Mid-Gate will serve as the Marcus Amphitheater Box Office.
Summerfest 2011 will take place June 29 â July 3 and July 5 â 10, from Noon until Midnight daily. Summerfest will be closed Monday, July 4. The Worldâs Largest Music Festival and Milwaukeeâs cornerstone summer celebration attracts the music industryâs hottest stars, emerging talent and local favorites. The Marcus Amphitheater and 10 additional stages, along with a diverse selection of food and beverage vendors, marketplaces and interactive exhibits, are set against the Lake Michigan and downtown backdrops, creating a festival experience like no other. Patrons can also enjoy Miller Lite, the Official Beer of Summerfest. For more details visit Summerfest.com.
Summerfest officials are excited to announce the fourth headliner slated for Summerfest 2011. The Black Keys will headline the Marcus Amphitheater on Wednesday, July 6 at 7:30PM along with very special guest, Florence + The Machine and Cage The Elephant.
The award winning American blues rock music duo, The Black Keys, is composed of vocalist/guitarist, Dan Auerbach and drummer/producer, Patrick Carney. Their acclaimed 2010 release Brothers won three awards at the 53rd Annual Grammy Awards this month. Brothers, which is now certified RIAA Gold, is iTunesâ Album of the Year and Rolling Stoneâs #2 Album of the Year for 2010. The record also topped American Songwriterâs year-end list and was featured on round-ups at NPR and in Time Magazine, Magnet, Mojo, Q, Clash and Uncut, among many others. They were also featured on the cover of Spin Magazineâs Best of 2010 issue.
The Black Keysâ hit list includes âTighten Upâ, the duoâs first #1 hit along with âHowlinâ For Youâ and other songs from Brothers, âEverlasting Lightâ and âNext Girlâ. The duo also has songs featured on TV and in the movies. âIâll Be Your Manâ, from the bandâs 2002 release, The Big Come Up, is currently the theme song for HBOâs hit series, Hung and a new song, âChop and Changeâ is featured on the Twilight Saga: Eclipse soundtrack.
Joining The Black Keys on tour is English indie pop rock and soul inspired act, Florence + The Machine who has recently gained mainstream success with their debut album, Lungs, which includes the hit single âDog Days Are Overâ along with other singles âKiss with a Fistâ and âRabbit Heart (Raise It Up)â. Florence + The Machineâs success in the United States seems to have no intention of slowing down. After performing at the 53rd Annual Grammy Awards this month, as well as the Oscars and Elton Johnâs annual Oscar party, Florence Welch and her very talented Machine are pleased to announce shows this summer in the United States. Sheâll be headlining venues across the country, as well as garnering a prestigious opening slot for U2 at select dates.
Also performing is Cage The Elephant, a band familiar to Summerfest fans. Their most recent album, Thank You, Happy Birthday was released in 2011 and on its first day, charted at #1 on the Top Ten Album Downloads on iTunes. Their hit list includes âAinât No Rest for the Wickedâ, âBack Against The Wallâ and âShake Me Downâ.
Tickets go on sale Saturday, March 5th at 12:00PM (Noon) and include Summerfest admission. Tickets can be purchased at the Marcus Amphitheater Box Office, Ticketmaster Ticket Centers, Walmart stores, online at Ticketmaster.com and by phone at 1.800.745.3000 (live Ticketmaster Agent) or 1.866.448.7849 (âTicketmaster Expressâ automated phone line). Patrons may also utilize âticketfastâ at Ticketmaster.com to print bar coded concert tickets from home. Convenience fees may be added to all purchases.
Due to the construction project on the south end of the grounds, the Marcus Amphitheater Box Office has been temporarily relocated to the intersection of Harbor Drive and Chicago Avenue at the Mid-Gate of the festival grounds. The building on the north side of the Mid-Gate will serve as the Marcus Amphitheater Box Office.
Summerfest 2011 will take place June 29 â July 3 and July 5 â 10, from Noon until Midnight daily. Summerfest will be closed Monday, July 4. The Worldâs Largest Music Festival and Milwaukeeâs cornerstone summer celebration attracts the music industryâs hottest stars, emerging talent and local favorites. The Marcus Amphitheater and 10 additional stages, along with a diverse selection of food and beverage vendors, marketplaces and interactive exhibits, are set against the Lake Michigan and downtown backdrops, creating a festival experience like no other. Patrons can also enjoy Miller Lite, the Official Beer of Summerfest. For more details visit Summerfest.com.
Milwaukee, WI- Summerfest officials are excited to announce the second performance slated for Summerfest 2011. Katy Perry will headline the Marcus Amphitheater on Thursday, July 7 at 7:30PM. An opening act will be announced at a later date.
Katy Perry sang in her local church as a child and began to pursue her career in music during high school. In 2007 she signed with her current label and rose to fame with the release of her second single âI Kissed a Girlâ in 2008. Her first studio album One of the Boys followed later that year and also produced the singles âHot n Coldâ and âWaking Up in Vegas.â Perryâs sophomore album, Teenage Dream, was released in August 2010 and debuted at number one on the Billboard Top 200. The album includes hit singles âCalifornia Gurlsâ, âTeenage Dreamâ and âFireworkâ, all of which have topped the charts on the Billboard Hot 100 and worldwide.
Perry is known for her unconventional clothing style, incorporating bright colors and patterns as well as fruit and dessert accessories into her outfits. She recently made the news for her October 2010 marriage to comedian Russel Brand. Katy has begun to build her empire beyond music with the recent release of her fragrance, Purr.
Tickets go on sale Saturday, January 29th at 10:00AM and include Summerfest admission. Tickets can be purchased at the Marcus Amphitheater Box Office, Ticketmaster Ticket Centers, Walmart stores, online at Ticketmaster.com and by phone at 1.800.745.3000 (live Ticketmaster Agent) or 1.866.448.7849 (âTicketmaster Expressâ automated phone line). Patrons may also utilize âticketfastâ at Ticketmaster.com to print bar coded concert tickets from home. Convenience fees may be added to all purchases.
Due to the construction project on the south end of the grounds, the Marcus Amphitheater Box Office has been temporarily relocated to the intersection of Harbor Drive and Chicago Avenue at the Mid-Gate of the festival grounds. The building on the north side of the Mid-Gate will serve as the Marcus Amphitheater Box Office.
Summerfest 2011 will take place June 29 â July 3 and July 5 â 10, from Noon until Midnight daily. Summerfest will be closed Monday, July 4. The Worldâs Largest Music Festival and Milwaukeeâs cornerstone summer celebration attracts the music industryâs hottest stars, emerging talent and local favorites. The Marcus Amphitheater and 10 additional stages, along with a diverse selection of food and beverage vendors, marketplaces and interactive exhibits, are set against the Lake Michigan and downtown backdrops, creating a festival experience like no other. Patrons can also enjoy Miller Lite, the Official Beer of Summerfest. For more details visit Summerfest.com
MILWAUKEE â November 18, 2010 â Milwaukee World Festival, Inc. officials announced new dates of operation for Summerfest 2011. Summerfest will test a new configuration of operating days for the 11 day celebration in 2011 that will entail eliminating Mondayâs operation and adding Wednesday, June 29, as the opening day, providing 11 customer-friendly and quality-oriented days of Summerfest for the community. With this change, 2011âs dates will be June 29 â July 3 and July 5 â 10, closed on Monday, July 4.
âAs stewards of Summerfest and Henry Maier Festival Park, we respond to customer preferences and suggestions, which periodically entails making adjustments to the event and its operations so the event and all of its partners and stakeholders have the strongest opportunity and probability for success in delivering the event experience that festival goers desire,â stated Don Smiley, President and Chief Executive Officer of Milwaukee World Festival, Inc.
This adjustment is based on customer feedback and the premise that, in general, if given the choice, people prefer to attend entertainment events, like Summerfest, on a Wednesday versus a Monday.
Milwaukee World Festival, Inc. will carefully monitor how the change in operating dates affects Summerfest, its partners and customers in 2011. Should 2011âs results support the strategy, Milwaukee World Festival, Inc. may consider making the change on a permanent basis moving forward.
Summerfest will continue to feature the coveted family-friendly promotion, Childrenâs Fest Day, which provides free admission to everyone between Noon and 3:00pm at all gates. 2011âs Childrenâs Fest Day will be held Tuesday, July 5.
Summerfest 2011 will take place June 29 â July 3 and July 5 â 10, from Noon until Midnight daily. Summerfest will be closed July 4. The Worldâs Largest Music Festival and Milwaukeeâs cornerstone summer celebration attracts the music industryâs hottest stars, emerging talent and local favorites. The Marcus Amphitheater and 10 additional stages, along with a diverse selection of food and beverage vendors, marketplaces and interactive exhibits, are set against the Lake Michigan and downtown backdrops, creating a festival experience like no other. Patrons can also enjoy Miller Lite, the Official Beer of Summerfest. For more details visit Summerfest.com.
I had a chance to chat w/ some of the Top 10 American Idols at Summerfest. Milwaukee, WI was the second stop in a three month long tour. Siobhan Magnus shares the stories behind her tattoos. Andrew Garcia reveals his plans for after the tour, Katie Stevens gushes over the Green Bay Packers, Michael Lynche & winner Lee Dewyze get into an arguement mid-interview. All in all, a great time was had by everyone. Plus, if you plan on auditioning for Season 10, they all have really good advice on how to handle the monster that is American Idol. Enjoy the interviews!
Day 8 of The World's Largest Music Festival brings difficult decisions. So many great acts to town in town tonight. I wish they would allow Rollerblades or Segways on the Summerfest grounds so I can see all of them. Here are my picks tonight.
Santana headlines Marcus Amphitheatre w Steve Winwood opening at 7:30.
10p - Miller Lite Oasis you've got O.A.R. If they guarantee a performance of, Led Zepplin's "Fool In The Rain" I'm there. We'll see.
Here is where it get's tricky for me. Take my chances w O.A.R. or check out the B52's at the M&I Stage at 10p and get my Rock Lobster on? Ahhhh!
Oh yeah, can't forget The Offspring. They rock the Harley-Davidson Roadhouse at 10p. Gotta keep'em seperated!
Choose wisely, be safe and have fun. Happy Summerfest ya'll!
For even more Summerfest coverage + how to get in FREE...click here.
The date was April 7th, 2010. Before opening for Daughtry at U.S. Cellular Arena that evening, Cavo stopped by to preview their debut album, "Bright Nights, Dark Days" which is in stores and available for download. Cavo performed 4 songs for us that day and joined us for lunch. A great group of guys from St. Louis who can rock it. Good stuff!
For even more Summerfest coverage + how to get in FREE...click here.
There was an unexpected surprise at the 2010 Summerfest Opening Ceremony, Thursday at the Harley-Davidson Roadhouse.
As President and CEO Don Smiley was at the podium speaking to the crowd, out came Windell Middlebrooks, the Miller High-Life delivery guy from the TV commericals. He had a hand truck full of Miller High Life, which was passed out to the crowd for a Summerfest toast.
Thanks for the free beer Windell.
What a way to kick off the 43rd edition of Summerfest!
Take a look at the Opening Ceremony below!
For complete Summerfest coverage, including how to get in FREE...Click here.
Hard to beleive it's been one year since the passing of Michael Jackson.
Do you remember where you were when you heard the news?
I was covering Opening Ceremoines at Summerfest listening to officals at the podium when my phone started buzzing. It was a text message about the death of Michael.
Though I never had the chance to interview Michael, I did interview those who worked closely with him.
Like...
Orianthi - She was slated to be the guitarist for Michael Jackson on the, "This Is It" Tour.
Ken Ehrlich - He was the Executive Producer of the 52nd Grammy Awards and had talked to Michael about perfroming on the show. Instead a 3D Tribute was produced for the telecast.
Like I said I was covering Opening Ceremonies at Summerfest when I heard the news. Who better to get reaction from than the artists themselves. Gavin DeGraw, Pat Monahan from Train and others shared their thought about the late Michael Jackson.
Share your thoughts in the comments and tell us what Michael Jackson songs you'd like to hear on Friday, June 25th, 2010.
There are a ton of different ways to save yourself some $$$ and get into Summerfest for FREE! But you gotta know whats going on, that's why I'm here. The following is a list of all the Admission Promotions that Summerfest offers.
Please know that all promotions, unless otherwise stated, will take place at the Mid-Gate promotions tent located across the street from the Summerfest Mid-Gate. All Admission Promotions start at Noon and run while ticket supplies last OR through 3:00 pm, whichever comes first, unless otherwise noted.
Ready for the madness? Here we go...
Thursday, June 24 is Johnson Controls Stomp Out Hunger Day with FOX 6. All patrons arriving between Noon and 3:00 pm who donate three (3) non-perishable food items will receive one (1) FREE admission ticket! Donations will be accepted at the Mid-Gate promotions tent as well as the North Gate. All donations will benefit the Hunger Task Force.
Thursday, June 24 is Miller High Life â Give a Veteran a Piece of the High Life Day from 5:00 â 7:00 pm. The first 2,000 patrons, 21 and older, who bring six (6) Miller High Life or Miller High Life Light bottle caps will receive one (1) FREE admission ticket! Visit Millerhighlife.com for details on the National âGive a Veteran a Piece of the High Lifeâ Program.
Friday, June 25 is Cedar Crest âFlip Your Lid at Summerfestâ Day from Noon â 3:00 pm or while supplies last. The first 1,500 patrons will receive one (1) FREE admission ticket at the Mid-Gate promotions tent when they turn in a lid and receipt dated June 1 â June 25, for the purchase of one (1) 48 oz. Cedar Crest ice cream. No copies or handwritten receipts will be accepted.
On Friday, June 25, the first 5,000 patrons will receive two (2) U.S. Cellular®/Summerfest Gadget Grips with a special accessory offer compliments of U.S. Cellular® and Summerfest. The giveaway starts at 5:00 pm while supplies last.
Saturday, June 26 is Goodwill Industries Day from Noon â 3:00 pm or while supplies last. The first 1,500 patrons who make a donation to a Goodwill Store & Donation Center between June 1 â June 26, 2010 and bring in their original donation receipt will receive one (1) FREE admission ticket. One (1) admission ticket per person for each donation receipt. Only original receipts received at a Goodwill Store & Donation Center dated June 1 â June 26, 2010 will be accepted.
On Saturday, June 26, the first 5,000 patrons will receive one (1) $15 Marcus Restaurant Group Gift Card redeemable at Mason Street Grill, Kil@wat and Milwaukee Chophouse. The giveaway starts at 5:00 pm while supplies last.
Sunday, June 27 is Jockey Family Day from Noon â 3:00 pm or while supplies last. The first 1,000 patrons contributing $10 or more to the Debra Steigerwaldt Waller Foundation will receive one (1) FREE admission ticket and a Jockey Being Family® Bear.
Sunday, June 27 is Scout Day from Noon â 3:00 pm. All Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts of Wisconsin Southeast in uniform will receive one (1) FREE admission ticket at the South Gate promotion booth and will enjoy a scout scavenger hunt.
Monday, June 28 is Sentry Foods and Deanâs Milk & Ice Cream Childrenâs Fest Day with TODAYâS TMJ4. All patrons arriving between Noon and 3:00 pm will be admitted FREE! Spend a fun-filled day with the family enjoying free Childrenâs Fest activities including the Map of Fun and Family Ticket Package giveaways. Select food vendors will offer discounts on food & beverage items.
On Monday, June 28, the first 5,000 patrons will receive one (1) Free Chips and Guacamole Card compliments of Chipotle Mexican Grill and Summerfest. Offer not valid on the Summerfest grounds. The giveaway starts at Noon while supplies last.
Tuesday, June 29 is Kapcoâs 2 Buck Tuesday at Summerfest from Noon â 6:30 pm. All Patrons attending Summerfest on Tuesday, June 29 between Noon and 6:30 pm can purchase an admission ticket for only $2 compliments of Kapco! Purchase tickets now at Summerfest.com.
Wednesday, June 30 is Klementâs Day from Noon â 3:00 pm or while supplies last. The first 1,500 patrons will receive one (1) FREE admission ticket at the Mid-Gate promotions tent when they provide a Klementâs product label (8 oz. or larger) and a non-perishable food item. Donations benefit the Milwaukee Rescue Mission.
Wednesday, June 30 is Milwaukee Journal Sentinel âShow Your Smileâ Day from 4:00 â 7:00 pm. All patrons who arrive at the Summerfest Mid-Gate between 4:00 â 7:00 pm wearing a shirt with the âShow Your Smileâ iron-on and present the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel coupon will receive $7 off their $15 admission. Patrons who present only the coupon between 4:00 â 7:00 pm, but are not wearing the âShow Your Smileâ iron-on will receive $5 off their $15 admission compliments of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Both the coupon and the âShow Your Smileâ iron-on are available in the Sunday, June 20, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Be spotted wearing the âShow Your Smileâ iron-on, on your shirt June 30 and win great prizes.
Thursday, July 1 is Northwestern Mutual âMake a Child Smile Dayâ from Noon â 3:00 pm or while supplies last. The first 1,500 patrons who donate any new, indoor childrenâs toy, art supplies or childrenâs G or PG rated DVD movie with a $5 minimum value will receive one (1) FREE admission ticket. All items collected will be used throughout the Childrenâs Hospital of Wisconsin system. All items must be new with original tags attached and/or original packaging.
Thursday, July 1 is H.O.G.® Day from Noon â 3:00 pm. Patrons will receive one (1) FREE admission ticket when presenting a valid H.O.G.® (Harley Owners Group®) card at the tent located on the northwest corner of Chicago Street and Harbor Drive. One admission ticket per card. NEW this year: H.O.G.® members will have exclusive access to the Harley-Davidson Hospitality Deck located at the Harley-Davidson Roadhouse Stage between the hours of 4:00 â 9:00 pm on July 1. Limited space; first come, first served. Once the deck reaches capacity, access will be on a âone out, one inâ basis.
Friday, July 2 is Malt-O-Meal Day from Noon â 3:00 pm or while supplies last. The first 1,500 patrons will receive one (1) FREE admission ticket when presenting an original receipt from any Wisconsin grocer that specifies the purchase of any two (2) Malt-O-Meal Bag Cereals 10 oz. or larger. Receipt must be dated between June 24 and July 2, 2010. No copies or handwritten receipts will be accepted. To find the store nearest you go to Maltomeal.com.
Saturday, July 3 is CBS 58 Milwaukee / MDA Day from Noon â 3:00 pm or while supplies last. The first 1,500 patrons contributing $10 or more to the Muscular Dystrophy Association will receive one (1) FREE admission ticket.
Sunday, July 4 is Summerfest âFree âtil Three Dayâ from Noon â 3:00 pm. All patrons attending Summerfest on the final Sunday (July 4) will be admitted for FREEâ¦compliments of Summerfest!
Whew! There you go. All the different ways you can into Summerfest for free. Now you can use all that money you saved for more...(beer, sour cream & chive fries, corn, whatever!) :)
Be safe, drink lots of water and we'll see you at Summerfest, The World's Largest Music Festival!
MILWAUKEE â April 27, 2010 â Milwaukee World Festival, Inc. officials are excited to announce the eleventh and final Marcus Amphitheater performance slated for Summerfest 2010. The American Idol Top Ten Finalists will headline the Marcus Amphitheater on Friday, July 2 at 7:30PM.
The hit series empowers contestants and viewers to share their voices in deciding who will be America's next singing superstar. The judges have their say after every performance, but it's the viewing public that determines who will advance to the next round of competition and who will go home. Voting via telephone and text-messaging begins immediately after each performance show, and the results are announced during the following night's broadcast. Eventually the competition is narrowed down to two finalists who compete for a major recording contract and the American Idol title. This year the finalist competition airs May 26.
Past winners Kelly Clarkson, Ruben Studdard, Fantasia Barrino, Carrie Underwood, Taylor Hicks, Jordin Sparks, David Cook and Kris Allen have become household names and have made their mark on the recording industry.
This yearâs top 10 finalists that make up American Idols LIVE Tour 2010 are: Aaron Kelly, Andrew Garcia, Casey James, Crystal Bowersox, Didi Benami, Katie Stevens, Lee DeWyze, Michael Lynche, Siobhan Magnus, and Tim Urban â Summerfest is proud to welcome the American Idols LIVE! Tour 2010.
Tickets go on sale Saturday, May 15 at 10AM and include Summerfest admission. Tickets can be purchased at the Marcus Amphitheater Box Office, Ticketmaster Ticket Centers, online at Ticketmaster.com and by phone at 1.800.745.3000 (live Ticketmaster Agent) or 1.866.448.7849 (âTicketmaster Expressâ automated phone line). Patrons may also utilize âticketfastâ at Ticketmaster.com to print bar coded concert tickets from home. Convenience fees may be added to all purchases.
Summerfest 2010 will take place June 24 â July 4 from noon until midnight daily. The Worldâs Largest Music Festival and Milwaukeeâs cornerstone summer celebration attracts the music industryâs hottest stars, emerging talent and local favorites. The Marcus Amphitheater and 10 additional stages, along with a diverse selection of food and beverage vendors, marketplaces and interactive exhibits, are set against the Lake Michigan and downtown backdrops, creating a festival experience like no other. Patrons can also enjoy Miller Lite, the Official Beer of Summerfest. For more details visit Summerfest.com
MILWAUKEE â April 22, 2010 â Milwaukee World Festival, Inc. officials are excited to announce the tenth performance slated for Summerfest 2010. R&B superstar Usher will headline the Marcus Amphitheater on Wednesday, June 30 at 7:30PM.
Usher started singing in the church choir when he was six years old. At the age of 14 he was spotted at a talent show by a record executive from LaFace Records. The company signed the young singer while he was still in high school. And the rest is history. He has since won five Grammy Awards, four World Music Awards, four American Music Awards, four MTV Awards, two Peopleâs Choice Awards and countless others. He has been ranked one of the best selling artists in American music history and has ranked higher than any other artist of his generation by Billboard Magazine. He was named the most successful singer of the 2000âs. His 2004 album Confessions was ranked as the top solo album of the last decade. His hit list includes: âYou Make Me Wannaâ, âMy Wayâ, âSlow Jamâ, âTwirk It Outâ and âU Remind Meâ.
On March 30, Usher released his sixth studio album Raymond vs. Raymond, which became his third consecutive album to debut at number one on the U.S. Billboard 200 chart. It features collaborations with will.i.am, Ludacris, Diddy, and T.I., to name a few. It features hit singles âDaddyâs Homeâ, âLil Freakâ and âOMGâ.
In addition to singing and acting, Usher is considered one of the music industryâs most creative dancers. His style is influenced by the rich history of the R&B industry. Usherâs energetic live performances combine his great vocals with his natural ability to dance. Summerfest is excited to have Usher grace the Marcus Amphitheater in 2010.
Tickets go on sale Saturday, May 1 at 10AM and include Summerfest admission. Tickets can be purchased at the Marcus Amphitheater Box Office, Ticketmaster Ticket Centers, online at Ticketmaster.com and by phone at 1.800.745.3000 (live Ticketmaster Agent) or 1.866.448.7849 (âTicketmaster Expressâ automated phone line). Patrons may also utilize âticketfastâ at Ticketmaster.com to print bar coded concert tickets from home. Convenience fees may be added to all purchases.
Summerfest 2010 will take place June 24 â July 4 from noon until midnight daily. The Worldâs Largest Music Festival and Milwaukeeâs cornerstone summer celebration attracts the music industryâs hottest stars, emerging talent and local favorites. The Marcus Amphitheater and 10 additional stages, along with a diverse selection of food and beverage vendors, marketplaces and interactive exhibits, are set against the Lake Michigan and downtown backdrops, creating a festival experience like no other. Patrons can also enjoy Miller Lite, the Official Beer of Summerfest. For more details visit Summerfest.com.
MILWAUKEE â April 12, 2010 â Milwaukee World Festival, Inc. officials are excited to announce the ninth performance slated for Summerfest 2010. Carlos Santana will headline the Marcus Amphitheater on Thursday, July 1 at 7:30PM along with special guest Steve Winwood
The Carlos Santana Universal Tone Tour 2010 gets underway on June 30 with an initial North American leg running through early August. The Universal Tone Tour 2010 will feature hits from Santanaâs four-decade-long career, as well as songs from a brand new studio album that Carlos Santana is currently putting finishing touches on. Santanaâs most recent release was the 2010 reissue of Supernatural as a 2-CD Legacy Editionâfeaturing 11 previously unissued bonus tracksâin celebration of the classic nine-time GRAMMY-winning albumâs 10th anniversary.
This springâprior to the launch of the Universal Tone TourâSantana can be seen in Supernatural Santana: A Trip Through The Hits, exclusively at The Joint at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Las Vegas (supernaturalsantana.com). The Joint is the only place west of the Mississippi where fans can see Santana through 2010; tickets are currently on sale for dates in April and May.
Opening for Santana is Steve Winwood. In addition to his solo career, he was a member of the Spencer Davis Group, Blind Faith and Traffic. He was inducted in to the Rock and Roll hall of Fame in 2004 as a member of Traffic. His list of hits includes âHigher Loveâ, âArc of a Diverâ, âValerieâ and âWhile You See a Chanceâ to name a few.
Exclusive Best Seat ticket presales for the Carlos Santana Universal Tone Tour 2010 will take place on SantanaFanClub.com starting April 13. Tickets go on sale Saturday, April 24 at 10AM and include Summerfest admission. Tickets can be purchased at the Marcus Amphitheater Box Office, Ticketmaster Ticket Centers, online at Ticketmaster.com and by phone at 1.800.745.3000 (live Ticketmaster Agent) or 1.866.448.7849 (âTicketmaster Expressâ automated phone line). Patrons may also utilize âticketfastâ at Ticketmaster.com to print bar coded concert tickets from home. Convenience fees may be added to all purchases.
Summerfest 2010 will take place June 24 â July 4 from noon until midnight daily. The Worldâs Largest Music Festival and Milwaukeeâs cornerstone summer celebration attracts the music industryâs hottest stars, emerging talent and local favorites. The Marcus Amphitheater and 10 additional stages, along with a diverse selection of food and beverage vendors, marketplaces and interactive exhibits, are set against the Lake Michigan and downtown backdrops, creating a festival experience like no other. Patrons can also enjoy Miller Lite, the Official Beer of Summerfest. For more details visit Summerfest.com.
MILWAUKEE - March 31, 2010 - Milwaukee World Festival, Inc. officials are excited to announce the seventh performance slated for Summerfest 2010. Superstar duo Brooks & Dunn will headline the Marcus Amphitheater on June 29 at 7:00PM, along with special guests Gary Allan and Kellie Pickler.
Brooks & Dunn have announced their final tour, âThe Last Rodeo Tour", which will mark the concert culmination of the duoâs groundbreaking 20-year career. The tour follows last yearâs release of Brooks & Dunnâs career-spanning double-disc collection, â#1s ⦠and then someâ, which features thirty favorites in all, including an amazing twenty-three #1 hits. Since their debut in 1991, the country music duo have had more than fifty singles on the country music charts and have recorded twelve studio albums and three greatest hits compilations. They are renowned for their high-energy stage shows and Summerfest is thrilled to have them grace the Marcus Amphitheater on their farewell tour.
Joining Brooks & Dunn are special guests and country sensations Gary Allan and Kellie Pickler. Gary Allan is known for numerous country hits like âBest I Ever Hadâ, âNothing On But the Radio" and âTough Little Boysâ. Kellie Pickler was discovered on American Idol and has since made a name for herself on both the country music scene and as a television personality.
Tickets go on sale Saturday, April 10 at 11am and all tickets include Summerfest admission. Tickets can be purchased at the Marcus Amphitheater Box Office, Ticketmaster Ticket Centers, online at Ticketmaster.com and by phone at 1.800.745.3000 (live Ticketmaster Agent) or 1.866.448.7849 (âTicketmaster Expressâ automated phone line). Patrons may also utilize âticketfastâ at Ticketmaster.com to print bar coded concert tickets from home. Convenience fees may be added to all purchases.
MILWAUKEE â March 30, 2010 â Milwaukee World Festival, Inc. officials are excited to announce the sixth performance slated for Summerfest 2010. Eric Clapton will headline the Marcus Amphitheater on June 28 at 7:30pm, along with special guest, Roger Daltrey.
British rock guitarist, Eric Clapton, started playing guitar as a young boy. He was heavily influenced by blues musicians, B.B. King, Buddy Guy, Muddy Waters and John Lee Hooker. Although Clapton has varied his musical style throughout his career, it has always remained grounded in the blues. Despite this focus, he is credited as an innovator in a wide variety of genres. These include blues-rock, psychedelic rock, adult contemporary and reggae. He is often credited for bringing reggae and Bob Marley to the mainstream. Now hailed as a âguitar greatâ around the world, his career has spanned more than 40 years. Over time, Clapton has been a major musical force in numerous legendary bands, including John Mayallâs Bluesbreakers, The Yardbirds, Cream, Traffic, Blind Faith and Derek and the Dominos. Clapton has been the recipient of numerous music awards, including 18 Grammy Awards. He is the only triple inductee into the Rock ân Roll Hall of Fame as a member of both The Yardbirds, Cream and as a solo artist. His song repertoire includes: âLayla,â âCocaine,â âWonderful Tonight,â âCrossroads,â âSunshine of Your Loveâ and âTears in Heavenâ to name a few.
Opening for Eric Clapton is one of rockâs most powerful lead vocalists of all time, Roger Daltrey. Daltrey is best known as the founding member and lead singer of English rock band, The Who. Daltrey has performed rock anthems like âMy Generation,â Wonât Get Fooled Againâ and âGiving It All Away.â Daltrey recently performed with The Who for the 2010 Super Bowl halftime show.
Tickets go on sale Saturday, April 10 at noon and all include Summerfest admission. Tickets can be purchased at the Marcus Amphitheater Box Office, Ticketmaster Ticket Centers, online at Ticketmaster.com and by phone at 1.800.745.3000 (live Ticketmaster Agent) or 1.800.448.7849 (âTicketmaster Expressâ automated phone line). Patrons may also utilize âticketfastâ at Ticketmaster.com to print bar coded concert tickets from home. Convenience fees may be added to all purchases.
Summerfest also recently announced the following ground stage headliners: The Scorpions, Danny Gokey, The Bravery, Modest Mouse, O.A.R., The Roots, Kool & The Gang, The Devil Wears Prada, The Wailers and Joan Jett and The Blackhearts. Summerfest 2010 will take place June 24 â July 4 from noon until midnight daily. The Worldâs Largest Music Festival and Milwaukeeâs cornerstone summer celebration attracts the music industryâs hottest stars, emerging talent and local favorites. The Marcus Amphitheater and 10 additional stages, along with a diverse selection of food and beverage vendors, marketplaces and interactive exhibits, are set against the Lake Michigan and downtown backdrops, creating a festival experience like no other. Patrons can also enjoy Miller Lite, the Official Beer of Summerfest. For more details visit Summerfest.com.
MILWAUKEE â March 16, 2010 â Milwaukee World Festival, Inc. officials are excited to announce the fifth show slated for Summerfest 2010. Justin Bieber will headline the Marcus Amphitheater on Sunday, June 27th at 7:00PM with special guest Sean Kingston.
Born in Stratford, Ontario, Justin Bieber is a multi-talented singer, and a self-taught musician on drums, guitar, piano, and trumpet. To date, he has surpassed 150 million YouTube.com views (the first 50 million of them as an amateur starting in 2007, posting renditions of his favorite hip-hop and R&B songs). Also in 2007, his manager Scooter Braun introduced Justin to the music industry in Atlanta. There he met multi-platinum superstar Usher, who signed the 13 year-old to his first professional deal and formed the RBMG joint-venture label with Braun and Antonio âL.A.â Reid, Chairman, Island Def Jam Music Group.
Bieber Fever rules: As millions of fans count down the days until the March 23rd release of his second album, MY WORLD 2.0, platinum- selling pop singing sensation Justin Bieber announces his first headlining tour of North America. In conjunction with the âMy Worldâ Tour and the release of MY WORLD 2.0 - the brand new official Bieber Fever Fan club website will officially launch. Fans will finally have one destination for all things Justin - a special community with unique access to news, updates, special online tour diaries, limited edition merchandise and more from Justinâs world. Members will also receive an exclusive welcome package including a Bieber Fever wall poster, sticker pack, bracelet and membership card.  For now, the only way to become a member is through a special ticket presale starting March 18. For more information about the fan club and for complete tour and ticket on sale information, go to www.bieberfever.com Â
 MY WORLD 2.0, a new album of 10 all-new songs, is the follow-up to Justinâs debut album, My World, released in November. My World, which earned RIAA platinum in just a few short weeks, contained Justinâs first four Top 40 hits on the Hot 100, âOne Timeâ (certified RIAA platinum), âOne Less Lonely Girl,â âLove Me,â and âFavorite Girl.â Justin is the first solo artist in history to send four songs from a debut album into the Top 40 of the Billboard Hot 100 prior to the albumâs release.
Included in the campaign for the new album launch is the chance to win a Golden Ticket. The lucky winner will receive an all-expense paid weekend trip to the Atlantis resort in the Bahamas. The winner and his/her family will also attend Justin's concert on June 12th, put on by the Atlantis Hotel. The show is a sneak peek into Justinâs tour.
VIP packages for the two and a half month âMy Worldâ Tour will be available while supplies last through a special fan club presale starting March 18th at 10:00 a.m. For more information and details please visit www.bieberfever.com. Tickets go on sale to the general public Saturday, March 27th at noon and include Summerfest admission. Tickets can be purchased at the Marcus Amphitheater Box Office, Ticketmaster Ticket Centers, online at Ticketmaster.com and by phone at 1.800.745.3000 (live Ticketmaster Agent) or 1.800.448.7849 (âTicketmaster Expressâ automated phone line). Patrons may also utilize âticketfastâ at Ticketmaster.com to print bar coded concert tickets from home. Convenience fees may be added to all purchases.Â
Summerfest 2010 will take place June 24 â July 4 from noon until midnight daily. The Worldâs Largest Music Festival and Milwaukeeâs cornerstone summer celebration attracts the music industryâs hottest stars, emerging talent and local favorites. The Marcus Amphitheater and 10 additional stages, along with a diverse selection of food and beverage vendors, marketplaces and interactive exhibits, are set against the Lake Michigan and downtown backdrops, creating a festival experience like no other. Patrons can also enjoy Miller Lite, the Official Beer of Summerfest. For more details visit Summerfest.com.
MILWAUKEE â March 9, 2010 â Milwaukee World Festival, Inc. officials are excited to announce several headlining acts that will perform this year. Performance times and stage locations will be announced at a later date.
Blending pop, rock and country into her unique sound, 9-time Grammy Award winner, Sheryl Crow will headline June 24, featuring hits like âLeaving Las Vegasâ and âAll I Wanna Doâ.
Arguably one of the most innovative hip hop groups of their time, Public Enemy will appear June 25.
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Pop sensation Colbie Caillat will appear June 24, performing hits like âBubblyâ and âThe Little Thingsâ.
Reggae and rap metal fusion band 311 will perform on June 25.
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Hailed as one of the most influential lead guitarists in rock, Jeff Beck will appear on June 25.
International DJ and techno-production duo, Thievery Corporation will appear on June 26.
Country singer and songwriter, Phil Vassar will headline June 26, performingsongs like âCarleneâ and âLast Day of My Lifeâ
Independent instrumental artists, Sound Tribe Sector 9 (STS9) will perform. Their performance date is yet to be determined.
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The legendary Moody Blues will headline June 30, featuring songs like âGo Nowâ and âIn Your Wildest Dreamsâ. As part of the âBritish Invasionâ, their career spans more than 45 years.
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Chicago-based rock trio and family band, Chevelle will perform on June 30.
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The Brooklyn quintet hailed as the quintessential bar band of the early 21st century, The Hold Steady will perform on July 1. Â
Alt-metal band from Kansas City, Puddle of Mudd will headline June 30, performing hits like âShe Hates Meâ, âControlâ and âLife on Displayâ.
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Fest-goers can save money with Advanced Sale General Admission tickets, now available on Summerfest.com with no incremental service fees. Discounted offers include a 3-for-$33 pass, valid for one general admission per day on three different days of the festival ($45 value), a $13 General Admission ticket($15 value), and a $6 Weekday Admission ticket valid Monday through Friday, Noon - 4:00pm ($8 value).Â
Summerfest 2010 will take place June 24 â July 4 from noon until midnight daily. The Worldâs Largest Music Festival and Milwaukeeâs cornerstone summer celebration attracts the music industryâs hottest stars, emerging talent and local favorites. The Marcus Amphitheater and 10 additional stages, along with a diverse selection of food and beverage vendors, marketplaces and interactive exhibits, are set against the Lake Michigan and downtown backdrops, creating a festival experience like no other. Patrons can also enjoy Miller Lite, the Official Beer of Summerfest. For more details visit Summerfest.com
MILWAUKEE â March 2, 2010 â Milwaukee World Festival, Inc. officials are excited to announce a second concert date has been added to feature Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers along with special guest ZZ Top. Now, the acts will perform at the Marcus Amphitheater on Friday, June 25th and Saturday, June 26th at 7:30pm. These two legendary bands will only perform together on the same bill this summer in one market â Milwaukee.
 This spring Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers will release their twelfth studio album, Mojo.Every online ticket to their Marcus Amphitheater show comes with a download of the entire album delivered on its spring release date, preceded by two advance tracks from Mojo (âFirst Flash Of Freedomâ and âGood Enoughâ) delivered via email upon purchasing the ticket online. Fans who purchase tickets online and download Mojo will also receive a selection of live tracks recorded during Tom Petty and The Heartbreakersâ 2010 Tour at the end of the summer.
 Opening for Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers is ZZ Top. ZZ Topâs 40 year career has produced hits like âTush,â âLa Grange,â âGimme All Your Loving,â âLegsâ and âSharp Dressed Manâ to name a few. One of ZZ Top's greatest strengths is their consistently high-standard live presentation and performances. One of rock's maverick attractions, Gibbons, Hill and Beard have retained their eccentric, colorful image, dark glasses and Stetson hats, complete with an almost casual musical dexterity that has won over hardened cynics and carping critics.
Tickets go on saleSaturday, March 6th at 10am for both concert dates. All tickets include Summerfest admission. Tickets can be purchased at the Marcus Amphitheater Box Office, Ticketmaster Ticket Centers, online at Ticketmaster.com and by phone at 1.800.745.3000 (live Ticketmaster Agent) or 1.800.448.7849 (âTicketmaster Expressâ automated phone line). Patrons may also utilize âticketfastâ at Ticketmaster.com to print bar coded concert tickets from home. Convenience fees may be added to all purchases.
Summerfest 2010 will take place June 24 â July 4 from noon until midnight daily. The Worldâs Largest Music Festival and Milwaukeeâs cornerstone summer celebration attracts the music industryâs hottest stars, emerging talent and local favorites. The Marcus Amphitheater and 10 additional stages, along with a diverse selection of food and beverage vendors, marketplaces and interactive exhibits, are set against the Lake Michigan and downtown backdrops, creating a festival experience like no other. Patrons can also enjoy Miller Lite, the Official Beer of Summerfest. For more details visit www.Summerfest.com
MILWAUKEE â February 25, 2010 â Milwaukee World Festival, Inc. officials are excited to announce the third performance slated for Summerfest 2010. Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers will headline the Marcus Amphitheater on June 25th at 8pm along with special guest ZZ Top.
Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers, who saw their first U.S. single âBreakdownâ become a surprise Top 40 hit, are returning to the Marcus Amphitheater. Hits like âRefugee,â âFree Fallinââ and âYou Donât Know How it Feelsâ give Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers an unparalleled multi-generational appeal.
This spring Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers will release their twelfth studio album, Mojo. Every online ticket to their Marcus Amphitheater show comes with a download of the entire album delivered on its spring release date, preceded by two advance tracks from Mojo (âFirst Flash Of Freedomâ and âGood Enoughâ) delivered via email upon purchasing the ticket online. Fans who purchase tickets online and download Mojo will also receive a selection of live tracks recorded during Tom Petty and The Heartbreakersâ 2010 Tour at the end of the summer.
Petty & The Heartbreakers (lead guitarist Mike Campbell, keyboardist/pianist Benmont Tench, bassist Ron Blair, multi-instrumentalist Scott Thurston, and drummer Steve Ferrone) never departed from their signature rootsy sound, but they were able to expand it, bringing in psychedelic, Southern rock, and new wave influences. They were also one of the few of the traditionalist rock & rollers who embraced music videos, filming some of the most inventive and popular videos in music television history. His willingness to experiment with the boundaries of classic rock & roll helped Petty sustain his popularity. Pettyâs latest release, âThe Live Anthologyâ features the best live Heartbreakers tracks recorded during thirty years of tours as chosen by Tom Petty, Mike Campbell and Ryan Ulyate.
Opening for Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers is ZZ Top. ZZ Topâs 40 year career has produced hits like âTush,â âLa Grange,â âGimme All Your Loving,â âLegsâ and âSharp Dressed Manâ to name a few. One of ZZ Top's greatest strengths is their consistently high-standard live presentation and performances. One of rock's maverick attractions, Gibbons, Hill and Beard have retained their eccentric, colorful image, dark glasses and Stetson hats, complete with an almost casual musical dexterity that has won over hardened cynics and carping critics.
Tickets go on sale Saturday, March 6th at 10am and will be available for $112.00 (Red), $92.00 (Yellow), $72.00 (bench) and $42.00 (lawn). All prices include Summerfest admission. Tickets can be purchased at the Marcus Amphitheater Box Office, Ticketmaster Ticket Centers, online at Ticketmaster.com and by phone at 1.800.745.3000 (live Ticketmaster Agent) or 1.800.448.7849 (âTicketmaster Expressâ automated phone line). Patrons may also utilize âticketfastâ at Ticketmaster.com to print bar coded concert tickets from home. Convenience fees may be added to all purchases.
Summerfest 2010 will take place June 24 â July 4 from noon until midnight daily. The Worldâs Largest Music Festival and Milwaukeeâs cornerstone summer celebration attracts the music industryâs hottest stars, emerging talent and local favorites. The Marcus Amphitheater and 10 additional stages, along with a diverse selection of food and beverage vendors, marketplaces and interactive exhibits, are set against the Lake Michigan and downtown backdrops, creating a festival experience like no other. Patrons can also enjoy Miller Lite, the Official Beer of Summerfest. For more details visit Summerfest.com
MILWAUKEE â February 8, 2010 â Milwaukee World Festival, Inc. officials are excited to announce the second show slated for Summerfest 2010. Carrie Underwood will headline the Marcus Amphitheater on Sunday, July 4.
 Carrie Underwood's career is the stuff dreams are made of. She blossomed as a national phenomenon before tens of millions of viewers by winning American Idol, captivated by both her vocal talent and personality. Carrie has built a career that would be the treasured work of a lifetime for most artists. The breadth and depth of her work speaks for itself--songs like "Jesus, Take The Wheel," "Before He Cheats," "So Small," "All-American Girl," "Last Name,â "Just A Dream," and âCowboy Casanovaâ among others.Â
 She has become the first country artist in history to achieve ten #1 singles from her first two albums. She is reigning ACM Entertainer of the Year. She has been both ACM and CMA Female Vocalist of the Year for three consecutive years. Her list of awards includes five CMAâs, eight ACMs, five Grammys and a host of others. Her love for music is evident throughout her third album, Play On. Co-writing seven of the CD's thirteen songs, she emerges as a songwriter of real depth, opening a wider window into her creativity and allowing her fans their most intimate look at Carrie the artist and person.
Tickets go on sale Saturday, February 20th at 10 AM and will be available for $67.00 (Red), $57.00 (Yellow), $47.00 (bench) and $37.00 (lawn). All prices include Summerfest admission. Tickets can be purchased at the Marcus Amphitheater Box Office, Ticketmaster Ticket Centers, online at Ticketmaster.com and by phone at 1.800.745.3000 (live Ticketmaster Agent) or 1.800.448.7849 (âTicketmaster Expressâ automated phone line). Patrons may also utilize âticketfastâ at Ticketmaster.com to print bar coded concert tickets from home. Convenience fees may be added to all purchases.
Summerfest 2010 will take place June 24 â July 4 from noon until midnight daily. The Worldâs Largest Music Festival and Milwaukeeâs cornerstone summer celebration attracts the music industryâs hottest stars, emerging talent and local favorites. The Marcus Amphitheater and 10 additional stages, along with a diverse selection of food and beverage vendors, marketplaces and interactive exhibits, are set against the Lake Michigan and downtown backdrops, creating a festival experience like no other. Patrons can also enjoy Miller Lite, the Official Beer of Summerfest. For more details visit Summerfest.com
MILWAUKEE â October 30, 2009 â Milwaukee World Festival, Inc. officials are excited to announce the first show slated for Summerfest 2010. Tim McGraw will headline the Marcus Amphitheater on opening night, Thursday, June 24 at 7:30 PM along with special guests Lady Antebellum and Love and Theft.Â
McGraw has sold over 40 million albums and dominated the charts with 30 #1 singles. Heâs won three Grammys, 14 Academy of Country Music Awards (ACM), 11 Country Music Association Awards (CMA) and 10 American Music Awards (AMA). His multi-faceted career also encompasses film, as he co-stars with Sandra Bullock in the upcoming film âThe Blind Side,â scheduled for release on November 20.
The âSouthern Voiceâ tour is in support of McGrawâsfirst studio album in two and a half years, following Let It Go, which debuted at No. 1 on The Billboard 200 in April of 2007. McGraw recently gave the title track, and current hit single, its national television debut on "NFL Opening Kickoff 2009 presented by EA Sports.â Southern Voice is currently No. 1 on Billboardâs Country Albums chart.
Joining McGraw on tour is country pop trio Lady Antebellum, the Best New Artist winners from both the ACM and the CMA awards in 2008. The fastest rising single of their career âNeed You Nowâ is quickly setting the pace for their upcoming sophomore album set for release on January 26, 2010.
Love and Theft will open the 7:30 PM show. Their debut album, World Wide Open, recently opened on the Top 10 of the country albums chart and the bandâs hit single âRunawayâ claimed the biggest first week of digital single sales for any debut country act this year.
The on-sale date and ticket prices for this show will be announced in the near future. Check Summerfest.com for details.
Summerfest 2010 will take place June 24 â July 4 from noon until midnight daily. The Worldâs Largest Music Festival and Milwaukeeâs cornerstone summer celebration attracts the music industryâs hottest stars, emerging talent and local favorites. The Marcus Amphitheater and 10 additional stages, along with a diverse selection of food and beverage vendors, marketplaces and interactive exhibits, are set against the Lake Michigan and downtown backdrops, creating a festival experience like no other. For more details visit Summerfest.com
We get your letters...
What an amazing weekend!
First of all, a very big THANK YOU to everyone who came out to Grafton and Mukwonago and waited in line amid cold, windy and rainy conditions for those Wisconsin Dells Season Opener Cards.
For me, it is a chance to meet / hang out with YOU the listener and give you goodies!
Second, got this letter from our 99.1 The Mix Contact Us forum, from the Dawson family of Port Washington and was truly surprised that my "simple gesture" warranted the following...
Question: Your Name:
Answer: Michelle
Question: Your City:
Answer: Port Washington
Comments:
Yesterday I took my parents to Grafton to wait for season opener cards. It was quite a cold morning. We arrived at 10 because in the past there have been huge lines. My mother is recovering from a recent open-heart surgery. She is a very petite older woman.
Van McNeil was interacting with people people in line and I asked him if it would be possible for my mom to going to the bank to warm up. He unexpectedly took my mom's hand and escorted her into the building. He was so kind to her and gave her a hug. He made sure she was warm and dry and took very good care of her.
My mom and dad are thrilled to be going to the Dells. Unknown to Van my dad just got out of The hospital last Friday after 4 1/2 weeks of being in. It's been a very rough couple of months for my parents and their health. My mother was just beaming about how nice Van was.
I wanted to thank you for the season opener cards which will allow my parents and my family to enjoy a vacation in Wisconsin this summer, and send a special thank you to Van for being so wonderful to my parents.
You're welcome and THANK YOU Michelle!
Just doing what I do because that's how my mama raised me!
Enjoy the Dells!
-Van
#everylistenermatters
Perennial Garden Renovations
Give your tired perennial garden a boost without a total renovation. Topdressing your garden with compost every year or two provides most if not all the nutrients your perennials need.
Pull back the mulch if needed. Then spread an inch of compost over the soil surface. You can buy a quality compost or make your own.
Leave the compost on the surface or lightly mix it into the soil. The earthworms, ground beetles, and other organisms will take it from there – moving the compost into the soil and around the plant roots where it is needed.
Or, do a bit of vertical mulching. Use an auger bit on your cordless drill. Simply drill holes into the soil between plants. Then fill the holes with compost. This gets the compost closer to the plant roots and soil organisms that will help mix it into and improve the soil.
Soil preparation and repair will help transform your garden.
A bit more information: Apply a plant strengthener such as JAZ spray to increase plant vigor and their natural ability to tolerate environmental stresses, insect attacks, and disease problems. These natural products aren't fertilizers or pesticides. They can be applied to established plants at the beginning of the season to boost their ability to deal with stress or as soon as problems arise.
For more gardening tips, how-to videos, podcasts and more, visit www.melindamyers.com
Growing Banana Plants Indoors or Out
Add a bit of the tropics indoors or out with a banana plant.
The large leaves are great for screening views and creating a bit of privacy on a balcony, patio or in the yard. Add a wicker planter or chair and you have your own tropical get-away.
The fiber banana (Musa basjoo) is hardy in zones 5 to 11. It grows in full sun. It will die back to the ground and benefit from winter mulch in northern areas of its hardiness zone.
Less hardy and smaller, the blood banana (Musa acuminata 'Zebrina'), has large leaves with red markings on 6 to 8 foot plants. It's only hardy in zones 10 to 11, but can be overwintered as a houseplant or allowed to go dormant in other areas.
Combine these tropical beauties with palms, ginger and bird-of-paradise. Or add some hardy tropical look-alikes such as Japanese forest grass, large leaf hostas and trumpet vines.
A bit more information: Push the limits of your growing region with special wintering techniques developed by Dr. David Francko, author of Palms Won't Grow Here and Other Myths: Warm-Climate Plants for Cooler Areas. And for those in warmer regions check out Creating the Tropical Look.
For more gardening tips, how-to videos, podcasts and more, visit www.melindamyers.com
Preserving the Asparagus Harvest
Preserve the flavor and nutrition of asparagus to enjoy year round.
This flavorful vegetable is low in calories and high in Vitamins A and C as well as fiber. Unfortunately, it is most readily available and at the best price in the spring.
Insure the best flavor with proper harvesting. Select young tender spears 8 to 10 inches tall. Wash, remove the ends, and then cut to fit the freezer bag or container.
Blanch the asparagus before freezing to lock in flavor, color and texture. Dip the asparagus into boiling water. You'll need a large pan with a lid. Blanch small spears for 2 minutes, medium spears for 3 minutes and large spears for 4 minutes.
Remove and immediately set the blanched spears in ice water for 5 minutes to cool. Drain and freeze.
And, if you don't have an asparagus patch, you may want to consider planting one this year.
A bit more information: May is National Asparagus Month. For tips on planting and harvesting asparagus listen to my audio tip. And check out the National Center for Home Food Preservation website for helpful tips and guidelines for preserving your harvest.
For more gardening tips, how-to videos, podcasts and more, visit www.melindamyers.com
Mexican Mint Marigold (Tagetes lucida)
Add a little color and flavor to your garden and salads with Mexican tarragon.
This subtle beauty is really a type of marigold, but the leaves and flowers have a tarragon fragrance and flavor.
Wait until after the danger of frost has passed to plant this zone 8 to 10 hardy plant. Grow it in full sun to part shade and well-drained soils. It is somewhat drought tolerant. Northern gardeners can treat it like an annual and those in the northern range of its hardiness zone may see it die back to the ground in a hard freeze. But don't worry its root hardy.
The yellow flowers appear in late summer and persist through fall. The 14 to 20 inch tall plants make a nice addition to herb gardens and flowerbeds.
Harvest the new growth to use fresh. Preserve the flavor by freezing the leaves or storing in vinegar. They tend to lose their flavor when dried.
A bit more information: You can find this plant listed under several common names including Mexican tarragon, Texas tarragon, pericon, and sweet mace. No matter the common name you can use the leaves and blossoms in soups, sauces and chicken dishes as well as salads. Some gardeners even seep it for tea. Visit Bonnie Plants for more information and gardeners ideas for growing and using this plant in the garden.
For more gardening tips, how-to videos, podcasts and more, visit www.melindamyers.com
Year of the Watermelon
Year of the Watermelon
The National Garden Bureau has declared 2013 the Year of the Watermelon. Be part of the celebration and consider planting watermelon in this year's garden.
Don't let the sweet flavor deceive you – these are nutritious as well as delicious. High in Vitamin C, low in fat and calories - it is a great way to boost your energy. Plus, all parts are edible.
You can pickle the rind, eat the fleshy portion fresh or roast or grind the seeds for flavoring. In china they stir fry watermelon while the Russians often pickle it before eating. You may want to try some new ways of enjoying this tasty summer treat.
Grow watermelon in full sun and well-drained soils. Save space by growing these plants on a trellis or decorative obelisk. Just secure the heavy fruit to the support with a cloth or macramé sling. Or plant a few seeds in a container and let the vines wander over your balcony or trellis.
A bit more information: Try planting one of the large picnic-type watermelons that can weigh 15 to 50 pounds. These are sure to get everyone in the family excited about growing and eating this, the largest edible fruit in the United States. Or perhaps you want to try one of the icebox melons that is much smaller at 5 to 15 pounds and easier to squeeze into the fridge. And don't forget about those with unique colored rinds and flesh and of course those that lack seeds.
For more gardening tips, how-to videos, podcasts and more, visit www.melindamyers.com
Clematis Stem Wilt
Clematis Stem Wilt
Your clematis looks beautiful until suddenly the stems and leaves start turning black. Though it looks bad your clematis will survive.
The fungus that causes this disease enters your plant through wounds and cracks in the stem near ground level. Fortunately new growth arising below this point will be disease free.
Reduce future problems by pruning out and destroying infested stems. Disinfect tools between cuts to reduce the risk of spreading this disease.
As new growth emerges from the soil carefully secure it to the support to reduce the risk of cracking and damage. Eliminating the entryways for the fungus will reduce the risk of disease.
In the future consider planting the crown of the clematis below the soil surface. This allows the plant to produce new shoots below the point of infection.
Try growing small flowered clematis that tend to resist this disease. Alpina, macropetala and the viticella types are a few to consider.
A bit more information: For a disease to occur you must have the causal organism (fungus, bacteria, virus) present, disease-promoting weather and susceptible plants. Remove one of these factors and you eliminate the disease. Keep this in mind when managing clematis stem wilt and other plant diseases in your garden.
For more gardening tips, how-to videos, podcasts and more, visit www.melindamyers.com
I'm a fan, are you?
Who doesn't LOVE a good Roller Coaster? Am I right?! I've been so very lucky to been have rasied in the Midwest, a stones throw away from Six Flags Great America, where I practicaly spent my summers as kid with my best bud Edgar!
Mom and dad would drop us off at open and pick us up at close. 10a-10p. Don't think I could handle that now. Heck, I could barley make it on one run of Batman The Ride Backwards!
Yes, that's right, for a limited time this season, (BTW... I tried to find out when from officials, they wouldn't budge, so get there soon!) Batman The Ride will be running BACKWARDS!!
MOBILE USERS: Click here to WATCH Van rides Batman: The Ride Backwards!
www.SixFlags.com
My Lucky Brewers Socks
I've been wearing these sock to the last few games I have attended at Miller Park and the crew always wins when I have them on. Do you think my socks lucky?
Matt Nathanson AND Plain White T's coming to Festa!
YES! That headline is correct...Matt Nathanson AND the Plain White T's will be performing at Festa Italiana, Saturday night, July 20th and I have the honor of being your ON STAGE HOST!!
I'm super stoked and looking forward to hanging with Platinum-selling singer-song writer Matt Nathanson, and Grammy-nominated Chicago-bred Plain White T's again!
Check out the videos from both groups last visit to The Mix Studios:
WATCH Matt Nathanson Interview and Performance.
WATCH Plain White T's Interview and Performance.
Watch for and Prevent Borers on Trees and Shrubs
Extreme heat and cold, droughts and floods can leave our plants stressed and more susceptible to damaging borers.
These insects are the immature stage of moths and beetles that feed under the bark and inside the stems of plants. Their feeding weakens and in some cases kills the plant.
Many borers are opportunists, attacking already stressed trees. We can't control the weather but we can help reduce stress on our plants. Start by growing plants suited to the climate and growing conditions in your landscape.
Mulch the area under and around the base of trees and shrubs. Organic mulches like wood chips keep the roots cool and moist and reduce competition from grass and weeds.
Be sure to water new plantings thoroughly and as needed the first few years. And do the same for established trees and shrubs during extended drought. This will keep them healthy and help ward off borers.
A bit more information: Incorporate trees and shrubs into perennial planting beds. You will create an attractive garden and better environment for the plants. Plus, planting beds as well as mulching will reduce the need for hand trimming and will keep weed whips and mowers away from the trunks of the trees. And don't pile soil or mulch over the stems of shrubs and the trunks of trees. These practices create entryways for pests and encourage disease problems.
For more gardening tips, how-to videos, podcasts and more, visit www.melindamyers.com
Lawn Revival
If sparse, bare spots or lots of weeds describe your lawn, it is time for a little lawn revival.
Start by evaluating the current state of your lawn. If more than 60% is bare or filled with weeds, it is time to start over. Look at this as an opportunity to properly prepare the soil, select a more drought tolerant lawn or convert it into a no mow or low maintenance lawn or planting bed.
Overseed thin sparse lawns. Core aerate first or use a slit seeder to insure good seed-to-soil contact. For small bare spots use a lawn patch kit or make your own. Mix a handful of quality grass seed into a bucket of topsoil. Remove any dead grass and roughen the soil surface. Then sprinkle the commercial or homemade lawn patch over the prepared bare spot.
Keep the soil moist until the grass seed begins to grow.
A bit more information: Larger areas will benefit from the addition of organic matter into the top 6 inches of soil before sowing the grass seed or laying sod. Keep the soil moist until the sod has rooted into the soil below and the grass seed begins to grow. Consider overseeding the lawn to help create a more uniform appearance in the lawn. For more information, click here.
For more gardening tips, how-to videos, podcasts and more, visit www.melindamyers.com
Were you NOT able to make it to the Summerfest Grounds Thursday night for the Milwaukee Brewers Rally? Not to worry, we got you covered!
Our good friend Gavin DeGraw's fourth studio ablum, "Sweeter"  is available on Tuesday, Spetember 20th.
I'm just getting up this fine Tuesday morning only to find out that our good friend Gavin DeGraw was assulted yesterday and hit by a taxi in New York City.
Grammy Award winner Jason Mraz joins Van McNeil for a chat about his July 2nd Summerfest show, openers Guster and what's up with a new record? Jason answers all that and then some.
Winner opens for major headliner on new Briggs & Stratton Big Backyard stage at the Worldâs Largest Music Festival, Summerfest in Milwaukee, WI! 
The 10th season of American Idol kicks off w a 2-hour premiere THIS WEDNESDAY 8/7 on FOX.
Day 8 of The World's Largest Music Festival brings difficult decisions. So many great acts to town in town tonight. I wish they would allow Rollerblades or Segways on the Summerfest grounds so I can see all of them. Here are my picks tonight.
There was an unexpected surprise at the 2010 Summerfest Opening Ceremony, Thursday at the Harley-Davidson Roadhouse.
MILWAUKEE - March 31, 2010 - Milwaukee World Festival, Inc. officials are excited to announce the seventh performance slated for Summerfest 2010. Superstar duo Brooks & Dunn will headline the Marcus Amphitheater on June 29 at 7:00PM, along with special guests Gary Allan and Kellie Pickler.
