Over the last six summers, Burnhearts’ Pabst Street Party has taken over a block of Potter Avenue in Bay View for an entire day, while having the audacity to coincide with the behemoth Summerfest. The block party that was initially centered around the outdoor enjoyment of a former (and never future) Milwaukee beer staple has quickly evolved to incorporate delicious food from area vendors, a local arts and craft fair, and live music from an increasingly awesome lineup of musicians. Past Pabst Street Party bookings have included reunion sets from The Promise Ring and Braid, as well as Mucca Pazza, Juniper Tar, Hugh Bob And The Hustle, and one of Space Raft’s first shows.
The seventh Burnhearts/Pabst Street Party—taking place Saturday, June 28, from noon to 8 p.m.—keeps with the block party’s theme of great music, good food, and fun whilst day-drinking the world’s favorite cheap beer. Fresh off the release of its outstanding debut album, Sylvan Esso (which features ex-Decibully member and Milwaukee ex-pat Nick Sanborn) will headline, narrowly removed from its European tour. GGOOLLDD will also play a set in preparation of its concert cruise gig. Head On Electric, Collections Of Colonies Of Bees, and newly reunited 1960s Milwaukee soul act Brothers By Choice—back after a 20-year hiatus—will also play the free event.
In addition to the music, food from Classic Slice, Honeypie, and Goodkind will be available. Cortney Heimerl will curate a craft fair in an adjacent Potter Street lot.
Burnhearts and Goodkind co-owner William “B.J.” Seidel says he’s “really excited about the lineup this year.” He also notes that a portion of the Pabst Street Party profits will be donated to the Bay View Neighborhood Association. We may not be able (or even want) to “Bring PBR Home,” but we’ve grown quite fond of its summer visits.