It's official
Every child knows summer really begins on the last day of school, no matter what the calendar says.
As an adult, I find I miss that definitive break between the school year and freedom.
But no worries. I now know summer officially starts when Summerfest opens in Milwaukee.
I took my annual trip to the Big Gig on Friday, and it didn't disappoint. I was there to see my father-in-law's band, The Brandon James Band. Like clockwork, the skies opened up the minute the band took the stage at 5 p.m. But the rain only lasted half an hour or so, and I was sitting under the Hoan Bridge, so I got a little protection.
Maybe it's because I grew up in Milwaukee, but I find Summerfest an experience like no other. It might be the food: I look forward all year to my sampler platter from Saz's. (I don't even want to think about how much cholesterol is on those mozarella sticks, cheese curds and fries.)
Then there's the music. I went to see The Brandon James Band, a southern rock group, then caught an 80s cover band. At 10, I toyed with going to see country star Phil Vassar, but ended up seeing Marcia Ball, an amazing New Orleans-style pianist and singer. My husband, meanwhile, went to see Sevendust, one of those angry rock bands. Where else can you find such variety?
Plus, Summerfest is also the official start to the festival season. We've got Festa Italiana, county fairs, State Fair and other fests all over the state coming up. What's on your summer agenda?
Jun 30, 2008 at 12:23 p.m.
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Actually Dylan's son is playing this year. Lots of new food offerings this year as well as the favorites. It's a short ride from Janesville. If you don't like driving into the city you can drive to any of the burbs and pick up a freeway shuttle bus that will drop you off at the front gate of the fest. There are many park and ride lots that offer this for $6 round trip. You can avoid the construction (minor) hassle of downtown.
Jun 30, 2008 at 12:10 p.m.
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No Dylan?
Jun 30, 2008 at 11:36 a.m.
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The diversity at Summerfest is so great! where can you see, Blondie, Shinedown, and a group from Equador that were all fantastic. It's the atmosphere, smells of the food and just the overall great attitude from everyone attending makes it so fun!
Jun 30, 2008 at 9:43 a.m.
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Dethklok, Dethklok, Dethklok, Dethklok. wranggggg...bididididididididi....
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