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Summerfest—self‑described as “The World’s Largest Music Festival”—returns to Henry Maier Festival Park in Milwaukee across three electrifying weekends: June 19–21, June 26–28, and July 3–5, 2025. With over 12 stages and hundreds of performances, this year’s lineup remains true to its reputation for multi‑genre diversity. Discover more or book hotels and flights now.

Weekend 1: June 19–21

Headliners & Major Acts

• Def Leppard with Tesla on June 19 at 7:30 PM (American Family Insurance Amphitheater)
• The Isley Brothers (with Eric Benét support) at BMO Pavilion on June 19
• Hozier teaming up with Gigi Perez — highly anticipated performance
• James Taylor and His All‑Star Band with Jason Mraz on June 20
• Megan Thee Stallion supported by Flo Milli
• Cake at BMO Pavilion adds indie-rock flavor

Notable Supporting Sets

• Intimate House Series features Joy Oladokun, Ginuwine, and Aly & AJ on June 19; Eric Bellinger and “Good Neighbours” on June 21

Weekend 2: June 26–28

Headliners & Highlights

• The Lumineers with special guest Hippo Campus will rock the American Family Amphitheater on July 5, although technically end of Weekend 3
• Lainey Wilson, bringing her Whirlwind World Tour, performs on June 26–27
• Def Leppard also returns for a potential encore — timeline TBD

Additional Acts

• Benson Boone, The Avett Brothers, Japanese Breakfast, CAKE among other festival favorites
• Intimate House Stage includes Grace Weber’s Music Lab, Mayday Parade, Plain White T’s, Jo Dee Messina, The Fray, Young the Giant

Weekend 3: July 3–5

Headliners to Close Out

• The Lumineers lead the charge on July 5
• Fountains of Wayne makes a triumphant return on July 4, marking their first public performance in 12 years
• Covering the holiday weekend, Chicago, Porter Robinson, and Benson Boone also take the stage

Intimate Set Highlights

• American Family House performers include hey, nothing; Everclear; Alex Warren; Josh Ross; The Warning

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Festival Experience & Essentials

Festival Grounds & Stages
Glistening on the waterfront, the grounds feature major stages such as the American Family Amphitheater (23,000‑capacity), BMO Pavilion, Miller Lite Oasis, and more.

Tickets & Access
General admission starts at $30, with single-day, multi-day, and VIP options available. The American Family–sponsored amphitheater may cost extra. Be ready for deeply discounted add‑ons like tent upgrades and front-row passes for “Power Up with Purpose” moments. Discover more.

Intimate Vibes at House Stage
The American Family Insurance House offers free, intimate performances near the Mid Gate, complete with customizable merch and VIP opportunities for early risers.

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Why Summerfest 2025 is Unmissable

Summerfest blends mega headliners—like Def Leppard, The Lumineers, and James Taylor—with genre-spanning diversity. From country’s Lainey Wilson to rap’s Megan Thee Stallion, the schedule delivers something for every fan. Not to mention historic performances, like the return of Fountains of Wayne and intimate sets at the House Stage. Discover more.

Add in lakeside views, food vendors, and fireworks, and you’ve got what Milwaukee calls “the world’s largest music festival”.

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Tips for Festivalgoers

Tip	Details
Plan ahead	Use the app for set reminders and stage maps
Arrive early	Especially for House Stage shows—VIP entry comes for the first 50 fans
Mix and match	Headliners vs. surprise gems like Japanese Breakfast or Hozier
Stay hydrated & fed	Lakefront info booths, craft vendors, and local eats all around
Think beyond music	Fireworks on opening night, Power Up moments, local vendor markets

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Luxury Hotels to Stay at in Milwaukee, WI

For festival-goers seeking upscale accommodation, these three standout hotels offer style, comfort, and proximity to Summerfest grounds.

Kimpton Journeyman Hotel

Located in the historic Third Ward, this boutique property blends industrial-chic design with modern luxury. Signature features include:

• A rooftop bar & shuffleboard lounge, The Outsider
• Mediterranean-inspired restaurant, Tre Rivali
• Art-enhanced rooms with IHG loyalty perks
• AAA Four-Diamond and U.S. News rankings

Guests praise its location, stylish interiors, and warm service. Book now.

The Iron Horse Hotel

This boutique gem sits just across from the Harley-Davidson Museum in Walker’s Point.

Standout amenities:

• Spacious, loft-style rooms with exposed brick and in-room wet bars
• Three on-site dining venues, including a wine lounge and outdoor The Yard
• Motorcycle-themed touches and pet- and rider-friendly services

Reviewers note its distinctive personality, friendly staff, and ideal downtown location. Book now.

Kinn Guesthouse

A stylish hybrid of boutique hotel and residential-style retreat, just steps from Summerfest venue.

What it offers:

• Only 31 suites, each with chef’s kitchen, walk-in showers, and Brooklinen bedding
• Rooftop event space, speak-easy lounge, and communal areas
• Flexible bookings—from single rooms to whole-floor or group stays

Guests rave about its personalized feel, kitchen amenities, and unique hospitality vibe. Book now.

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Choosing the Right Hotel

Hotel	Best For	Highlights
Kimpton Journeyman	Style-conscious travelers & nightlife lovers	Rooftop bar, artistic design, Third Ward location
Iron Horse Hotel	Boutique lovers & motorcycle enthusiasts	Loft suites, on-site dining, unique character
Kinn Guesthouse	Groups, long stays, or home-away feel	Chef’s kitchens, suites, rooftop lounge

All three offer prime access to Summerfest’s lakeside stages—just a short Uber or streetcar ride away—and elevate the festival experience with luxury, local flavor, and refined comfort.

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Final Take

Summerfest 2025 delivers a thrilling musical lineup, and pairing it with an exceptional stay, whether at Kimpton Journeyman, The Iron Horse Hotel, or Kinn Guesthouse, makes your visit to Milwaukee unforgettable. From rooftop cocktails to chef-crafted rooms, each destination brings unique luxury that complements the festival’s vibrant energy. Discover more.

Get your festival passes, download the app, and start building your Summerfest 2025 adventure. See you lakeside!

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