Summerfest! It runs June 26-30, and July 2-7! Over that 11-day span, approximately 800 acts will perform on 10 stages (not to mention all the side stages). With that much entertainment packed into such a tight window, we understand if you’re stressing about how to Fest to the best of your ability.
In an effort to help you make some potentially difficult Summerfest decisions, Milwaukee Record will offer some Record Recommendations for each and every day of Summerfest, including a suggested headliner, a reason to show up early, a can’t-miss local act, and a tip for a way to have a cheaper and/or better experience. Here are our Record Recommendations for Summerfest Day 7.
HEADLINER
Jennifer Lopez
7:30 p.m. @ American Family Insurance Amphitheater
Over the last 20-plus years, Jennifer Lopez has been an A-list actress, a musician that’s sold millions upon millions of albums, a fashion icon, and a trailblazing artist that’s endured changing trends and personal up-and-downs. At this point in her career, the only thing J.Lo can’t do is be missed by you when she headlines the American Family Insurance Amphitheater tonight.
EARLY BIRD
Nora Collins
6:00 p.m. @ U.S. Cellular Connection Stage
Even though Nora Collins currently calls Nashville home, the Milwaukee-born country music talent could technically qualify for local distinction. Regardless of her local or national classification, Collins must be seen. Swing by the U.S. Cellular Stage at 6 o’clock to watch her play a homecoming set in belated support of her excellent 2018 EP, Strings.
LOCAL
Avenues
3:30 p.m. @ Miller Lite Oasis Stage
The guys in Avenues are no stranger to the Big Gig. In fact, the veteran Milwaukee pop-punk outfit won Summerfest’s Emerging Artist Series back in 2012. Since then, they’ve been roving the country in a van, opening for the likes of The Queers and Teenage Bottlerocket, and treating hometown punks to energetic performances on land and water. Show up to the grounds early and check out Avenues!
DEAL/TIP
From noon until 4 p.m., people 60 years of age or older can gain free entry by showing up at the designated turnstile at any gate. They’ll also get a voucher for $2 off a food or non-alcoholic beverage purchase over $10. Not 60 or older? Okay. Well, from noon until 3 p.m., you can get in free by bringing in a valid H.O.G.® (Harley Owners Group®) card.
If you’re younger than 60 and you aren’t a H.O.G. member, no worries. The Wendy’s stand on the north end of the grounds sells $2 Chocolate Frostys to all. If you’re feeling extravagant, spring for the $3 fries to dip into it.
