Community Engagement
Aligned with Summerfest’s non-profit mission, the festival made significant contributions to the community in 2023, providing over 27,000 pounds of food donations for Hunger Task Force, over $18,000 worth of hygiene products donated to Milwaukee and Waukesha County schools through the United Way, and over 3,500 books for Next Door’s community literacy initiatives. The festival also integrated over 70 local community organizations into the festival through performances and events such as Direct Supply Seniorfest Day and Children’s Fest Day presented by Shorewest, Realtors©.
Economic Impact
In 2023, Summerfest conducted an independent economic impact study through Oxford Economics, and we’re thrilled to share the results! Summerfest presented by American Family Insurance generated a total economic impact of $160.3 million for the city of Milwaukee and supported 3,400 total part-time and full-time jobs. For the state of Wisconsin, Summerfest generated $188.7 million in economic impact, along with $14.4 million in state and local taxes.
We love our city and community and are so thankful for all our incredible fans, sponsors, and partners for their continued support of the festival!
Admission Promotions
Summerfest offers more ways than ever to access the festival via free or discounted admission, while giving back to the community. On select days, fans are encouraged to donate non-perishable food items, hygiene supplies, or books to get into the festival and enjoy the fun, while supporting the local community. Stay tuned for more info on 2024’s Admission Promotions!
Let the Music Play Grant Program
Since its inception in 2019, the Let the Music Play Grant Program has supported over 40 organizations and hundreds of music students annually. The program is open to non-profit organizations and schools through music-based programming and represent the variety of music-based activities taking place in the greater Milwaukee community.
Congratulations to the 2024 recipients including Alcott School, Bayview Montessori School, Bella Gail Foundation, Milwaukee Parkside School for the Arts, Neeskara Elementary, School District of South Milwaukee, Arts @ Large and Milwaukee Jazz Orchestra.
BMO Empower Grant Program
The BMO EMpower grant program is a long-term platform that helps support minority-owned businesses through BMO’s partnership with Summerfest. In 2023, 6 minority small business owners received funding, along with business banking-related educational opportunities, to support their work as vendors during Summerfest. See the 2023 recipients below!
These grants are part of BMO’s EMpower program, a more than $40 billion commitment to address key barriers faced by minority businesses, communities and families in the United States. For more information, visit BMO EMpower (opens in new tab)(opens in new tab).
POWER UP WITH PURPOSE
Power up your concert experience to the next level! Starting April 22, 2024, at 8:00 a.m., fans can purchase “Power Up With Purpose” pit passes. Each pass will include festival admission for one person to Summerfest and access to the front pit area of the Generac Power Stage on the selected evening.
All proceeds will benefit Veterans Community Project (VCP), a nationally recognized nonprofit organization dedicated to ending Veteran homelessness. Purchase your tickets today www.generac.com/powerup(opens in new tab at www.generac.com).
Alumni Charity Challenge
A challenge like no other where former Green Bay Phoenix, Marquette Golden Eagles, Milwaukee Panther, and Wisconsin Badger basketball players reunite to raise money for charity and prove who is still number one on the court.
In 2023, over $12,000 was donated to Grading Against Cancer, Autism Society of SE Wisconsin, Nicole Ellis Foundation and Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Green Bay.