Milwaukee is abuzz as Summerfest 2025 officially kicks off on June 19, marking the start of one of the world27s largest and most beloved music festivals. Spanning three weekends2028June 19-21, June 26-28, and July 3-529, the festival promises nine days of electrifying performances, diverse genres, and vibrant cultural celebrations along the city27s scenic lakefront at Henry Maier Festival Park.
This year27s opening day holds special significance as it coincides with Juneteenth Day, a historic day commemorating the emancipation of enslaved African Americans. Summerfest honors this occasion with a dedicated opening ceremony featuring Northcott Neighborhood House, performances, speeches, and recognition of Juneteenth scholarship recipients. The festival also booked a slate of acts specifically to celebrate Juneteenth, including legendary Rock and Roll Hall of Famers The Isley Brothers and Milwaukee native R&B artist Eric Bene9t.
Def Leppard and Tesla are set to headline the American Family Insurance Amphitheater on June 19, promising a powerhouse rock evening. Meanwhile, festivalgoers can enjoy a rich lineup across multiple stages, featuring artists such as The Isley Brothers, Gary Clark Jr., Aly & AJ, Ginuwine, Bow Wow, and Fabolous. Eric Bene9t, who once lived in Milwaukee, previewed his performance on FOX6 WakeUp, adding a hometown pride element to the festivities.
The festival27s schedule for opening day kicks off at noon with a variety of performances, including local favorites and emerging talents. From Christopher27s Project and ComedySportz to School of Rock ensembles and DJay Mando, there27s an eclectic mix designed to appeal to all tastes. The day continues with performances by Joy Oladokun, Buffalo Nichols, The Shonn Hinton Experience, and culminates in the evening with headliners and marquee acts.
Following the Juneteenth ceremony at 6 p.m., the BMO Pavilion will host Eric Bene9t at 7:30 p.m., followed by The Isley Brothers at 10 p.m. Meanwhile, the UScellular Connection Stage features rapper Fabolous at 10 p.m., and the Miller Lite Oasis stage spotlights blues artist Buffalo Nichols and The Shonn Hinton Experience earlier in the evening. These performances underscore Summerfest27s commitment to celebrating cultural heritage alongside musical excellence.
Beyond opening day, Summerfest 2025 boasts a star-studded lineup across its three weekends. June 20 features Hozier headlining the amphitheater, supported by Gigi Perez, Mike Posner, Rick Springfield, George Thorogood & The Destroyers, Dispatch, and The Head and The Heart. On June 21, legendary singer-songwriter James Taylor headlines, joined by Jason Mraz, Tiny Habits, Japanese Breakfast, Yung Gravy, iann dior, Lindsey Stirling, Eric Bellinger, and Billy Currington performing on various stages.
The festival27s diverse genre offerings ensure there27s something for everyone, from rock and indie to R&B, hip-hop, country, blues, and electronic music. Notably, Japanese Breakfast will headline the BMO Pavilion during the festival, while other prominent acts like Megan Thee Stallion, Riley Green, The Avett Brothers, and Lainey Wilson are also part of the extensive lineup.
Attending Summerfest is accessible with various ticket options. A general admission single-day pass costs $30, while the UScellular three-day pass is priced at $63, and the nine-day power pass is available for $130. However, attendees must purchase separate tickets for the American Family Insurance Amphitheater concerts, which include same-day entry to the festival grounds. Amphitheater tickets are available through Ticketmaster.
For those seeking a premium experience, the Level Up Viewing Deck offers amenities such as a private bar and flat-screen TVs, including same-day admission to Summerfest and two beverages, though it does not grant amphitheater access. This option will become available once the Miller Lite Oasis stage lineup is announced.
Summerfest27s location at Henry Maier Festival Park provides a picturesque setting along Milwaukee27s lakefront, with multiple stages and entertainment zones spread throughout the grounds. The festival runs daily from noon to midnight, allowing ample time to catch multiple acts and enjoy local food vendors and cultural activities.
In addition to music, Summerfest 2025 incorporates community events like A Taste of Juneteenth, scheduled for June 21, further enriching the festival27s cultural offerings. The organizers27 dedication to blending entertainment with meaningful celebration highlights Summerfest27s role as more than just a concert series—it is a vibrant communal gathering that honors history, diversity, and the arts.
As Milwaukee welcomes music lovers from near and far, the 57th iteration of Summerfest continues its legacy as a festival that evolves while staying true to its roots. With a lineup that honors past and present, local and international talent, and a commitment to inclusivity, Summerfest 2025 is poised to deliver unforgettable experiences for all who attend.
