A Look Back at the Last Weekend of SummerFest 2025
Milwaukee’s SummerFest 2025 brought its final weekend to life with a dynamic mix of music, connection, and unforgettable moments. As the festival entered its third week, the anticipation for the Fourth of July celebrations and a diverse lineup of performances brought massive crowds to the lakefront. With each stage offering a unique flavor, fans roamed the grounds, eager to catch both legendary acts and rising stars in intimate and electrifying settings alike.
All Photos By: Aaron R. Shriver PhotographyThe energy shifted effortlessly between acoustic storytelling, vibrant country tunes, and heavy-hitting metal, creating an atmosphere that felt both exhilarating and deeply personal. Whether it was discovering fresh talent or singing along to familiar hits, the festival offered something for everyone to feel a part of. Even amidst a few letdowns, like the subdued drone show, the sense of community and passion for live music made up for any missed beats.
Click The Image Above For The Full Art Alexakis GalleryArt Alexakis stepped onto the AmFam House stage with a quiet confidence that immediately drew the audience in. The intimate venue, known for its close-knit atmosphere, became the perfect setting for stripped-down renditions of Everclear’s timeless hits. Alexakis, armed with just his guitar and his unmistakable voice, created a raw and personal experience that felt miles away from the larger, more polished stages of SummerFest. It was a moment that reminded everyone why Everclear remains a cornerstone of the alternative rock scene, especially as the band celebrates three decades of making music. This performance wasn’t just about revisiting memories; it was about feeling them all over again, with the same intensity as the first time.
Click The Image Above For The Full Tyler Nance GalleryTyler Nance took the Aurora Stage with an easy charm that pulled the crowd in from the moment he started. Hailing from Missouri, the country singer-songwriter brought heartfelt energy to his set that resonated deeply with the Milwaukee audience. His warm vocals and down-to-earth presence created a connection that felt effortless, making the performance feel personal despite the growing crowd. The highlight of his time on stage was his breakout hit, "Keeps Me Sane," a song that struck a chord with listeners who couldn’t help but sing along.
Click The Image Above For The Full Max McNown GalleryMax McNown’s set at the AmFam House was a moment of pure connection between artist and audience. With just his voice and guitar, Max brought an honesty to his performance that felt unfiltered and heartfelt. He opened with "Marley," setting a reflective and personal tone that pulled the small crowd in immediately. As the set continued, songs like "Better Me For You" and "A Lot More Free" turned into communal sing-alongs, with fans eagerly joining in on every lyric. There was a sense of shared energy in the room, as though everyone was experiencing something uniquely their own but entirely together. It was evident that this smaller performance was just a prelude to something bigger as Max used the close-knit crowd to channel his energy, preparing for his later set on one of the festival’s major stages. For those lucky enough to witness this performance, it felt like seeing a star in the making.
Click The Image Above For The Full Lanco GalleryLanco brought a vibrant energy to the Aurora Stage that made it impossible for the crowd to stand still. With Brandon Lancaster leading the charge, the band delivered a performance that felt both dynamic and deeply heartfelt. Their set seamlessly wove together storytelling and infectious melodies, creating moments where fans couldn’t help but sing along. The connection between the band and the audience was undeniable, especially during their hit "Greatest Love Story." As the first chords rang out, the crowd’s cheers swelled, and voices rose in unison, filling the air with a shared sense of nostalgia and joy.
We caught up with Max McNown before taking the main stage at this year's SummerFest
Max McNown brought an undeniable spark to the US Cellular stage, lighting up the crowd with his energy and charisma. From the first note, he captured the audience's attention, creating an atmosphere that felt electric. His set showcased a blend of emotional depth and vibrant energy, proving his ability to connect with fans on a personal level while keeping the energy high
Click The Image Above For The Full Max McNown GalleryThe drone show on July 4th attempted to offer a modern twist on the holiday tradition, but the result left much of the crowd underwhelmed. Without the vibrant soundtrack that typically accompanies such displays, the visuals, while creative, felt disconnected from the festival's lively energy. Attendees gathered with high hopes for a spectacle that would match the excitement of the day’s performances, but the lack of sound or accompanying music created a sense of detachment from the experience. While the light formations showcased technical skill, the absence of the familiar booms and crackles that fireworks brought seemed to leave a void in the celebration.
Richard Marx delivered a performance that felt both timeless and fresh, drawing the crowd in with his unmistakable voice and masterful songwriting. With a career spanning decade, his set offered a journey through a catalog of beloved classics, seamlessly interwoven with tracks he’s penned for other artists. Each song carried a sense of nostalgia, yet Marx’s energy and connection with the audience made it feel like these hits were being heard for the first time. Moments like hearing “Right Here Waiting” and “Endless Summer Nights” live created an undeniable emotional connection, as fans sang along to every word. But what made his performance truly special were the surprises woven into the setlist—songs he wrote for other artists, like the heartfelt “This I Promise You” and the upbeat “Long Hot Summer.” Hearing Marx perform these tracks in his own voice provided a unique perspective, adding an extra layer of appreciation for his talent as a songwriter.
Click The Image Above For The Full Richard Marx GalleryAlex Warren lit up the US Cellular stage with an energy that was nothing short of electric. From the moment he began with "Burning Down," it was clear this was a performance designed to captivate. The crowd, one of the biggest seen on the grounds this year, was immediately swept up in his commanding presence and raw talent. Each song seemed to build on the last, creating a momentum that pulled everyone deeper into the moment. Tracks like "Bloodline" and "Save You A Seat" had fans fully engaged, their voices rising to meet his, while the emotion he poured into every lyric made the connection between artist and audience undeniable.
Click The Image Above For The Full Alex Warren GalleryWhen he performed "Ordinary," the viral hit that had catapulted him into the spotlight, the energy reached a fever pitch. The crowd erupted, their voices joining in a chorus that seemed to echo across the festival grounds. It wasn’t just the music; it was the way Alex made the entire experience feel personal, as if he was singing to each individual in the sea of fans before him. His ability to blend emotion with showmanship turned the night into something unforgettable, a moment that firmly established him as a rising star with no limits.
This is the reason why Alex Warren will headline the Amphitheater during SummerFest 2026
Fans navigated rain, heat, and crowded stages, but the electric energy of the performances kept spirits high. Whether it was intimate acoustic moments or high-energy sets that had the crowds dancing late into the night, the final day of SummerFest was a whirlwind of emotion, creativity, and connection.
Click The Image Above For The Full Josh Ross GalleryJosh Ross found himself stepping into an unexpected spotlight on the final day of SummerFest, taking over the headlining role after Nate Smith was unable to perform due to vocal health issues. Earlier in the day, Ross treated fans to an intimate acoustic set at the AmFam House, creating a moment that felt raw and personal. The small crowd gathered close, with one young fan in the front singing along to every word of his heartfelt tracks like “Trouble” and “Red Flags.” It was clear that his music was more than just songs; it was a connection.
Click The Image Above For The Full Drown The Lifeguard GalleryMilwaukee’s local music scene came alive during the final weekend of SummerFest 2025, showcasing an impressive range of talent that celebrated the city’s diverse sound. Drown The Lifeguard kicked things off with a relentless performance on the Uline stage, delivering a heavy dose of metal that resonated deeply with their hometown crowd. Their set was intense and unapologetically raw, capturing the passion that fuels the city’s underground music culture.
Click The Image Above For The Full Ray Rizzy GalleryOn the Genrac Power Stage, Ray Rizzy brought an entirely different energy, weaving his hard-hitting hip-hop tracks with messages of resilience and personal growth. His connection to Milwaukee was palpable, with every beat reflecting the grind and pride of the city he calls home. The audience fed off his energy, responding with an enthusiasm that matched his unshakable confidence.
Click The Image Above For The Full 414 Big Frank GalleryMeanwhile, 414 Big Frank turned up the fun with an energetic set that celebrated the unique flavor of Milwaukee’s culture. His infectious charisma and humor lit up the stage, as his playful lyrics and vibrant beats got the crowd moving. From local pride to universal themes, Milwaukee artists brought authenticity and heart to their performances, making their mark on the festival’s rich musical tapestry.
Click The Image Above For The Full Rivals Gallery Rivals hit the Briggs & Stratton stage with an energy that was impossible to ignore. Their blend of dark pop and rock brought an edge to the evening, creating a vibe that pulled the audience in from the very first note. They took a bold step by debuting new tracks live, including "Talkin'" and "Copacetic," both of which were met with eager cheers from the crowd. It’s always a risk to introduce fresh material in a live setting, but the band made it feel effortless, delivering these songs with confidence and emotion.
Click The Image Above For The Full Bloodywood GalleryOn the Uline Stage, Bloodywood delivered a set that was as intense as it was heartfelt. Their fusion of Indian folk, rap, and metal created a sound that felt both groundbreaking and deeply personal. Every note and lyric seemed to carry a purpose, tackling issues like political corruption, mental health struggles, and environmental challenges with a boldness that left a mark on the audience. The emotional weight of their performance was undeniable, but it never felt heavy-handed; it was raw, sincere, and full of intention.
Click Here For A Recap Of SummerFest Grounds PhotosOne standout moment came with their performance of "Machi Bhasad (Expect a Riot)," a song that ignited the crowd into a chaotic, exhilarating mosh pit. The energy was unmatched, as fans fed off the powerful rhythms and the sheer force of their sound. It was more than just a moment of chaos; it felt like a collective release, a shared outpouring of emotion in the face of the issues the song confronts.
Click The Image Above For The Full Lauren Watkins Gallery Lauren Watkins brought a warmth to the US Cellular stage that felt honest and grounded. Growing up surrounded by Nashville’s rich musical heritage, her connection to country music runs deep, and it came through in every note she sang. Her voice carried a sincerity that struck a chord with the audience, drawing them into stories of love, heartache, and everyday life. Each song felt like a glimpse into her world, delivered with an ease that made the performance feel personal.
Click The Image Above For The Full Jinjer GalleryJinjer brought a surge of raw energy to the Uline stage, captivating the crowd with their distinctive fusion of heavy grooves and intricate melodies. Vocalist Tatiana Shmailyuk’s dynamic range was nothing short of astounding, as she shifted seamlessly between hauntingly melodic lines and guttural screams that seemed to erupt straight from the soul. Each song felt like a deeply personal expression, delving into themes of internal struggle and societal challenges, all backed by the band’s tight, unrelenting instrumentation.
Click The Image Above For The Full Saxsquatch GallerySaxsquatch brought an unforgettable twist to the Miller Lite Oasis stage, blending skilled saxophone performance with a dose of humor as he performed in his signature Bigfoot costume. His playful energy had the crowd smiling and grooving, creating a moment that felt lighthearted yet musically impressive. The unexpected pairing of his quirky stage persona with undeniable talent left fans thoroughly entertained.
Click The Image Above For The Full Rome GalleryLater on the same stage, Rome Ramirez stepped into his own spotlight, showcasing a sound that highlighted his personal musical growth. Known for his work with Sublime, Rome's solo set offered a fresh perspective, mixing reggae and ska with influences from Motown, classic rock, and soul. His heartfelt performance and new material gave listeners a glimpse into his evolving artistry. The highlight of the set came when the Dirty Heads joined him onstage for a surprise duet, electrifying the audience and amplifying the sense of camaraderie that marked the weekend.
We caught up with Rome prior to his SummerFest set!
These performances exemplified the diversity and creativity that SummerFest is known for, offering moments that stood out not just for their uniqueness but for the connection they fostered between the artists and the audience. Whether quirky or deeply personal, these acts showcased the many dimensions of live music at the festival.
Click The Image Above For The Full Third Eye Blind GalleryThird Eye Blind closed out the weekend with a set that balanced heartfelt nostalgia and lively energy. Fans were treated to an unexpected moment when the band played "God of Wine" after a request from the crowd, a song that carried an emotional weight and struck a chord with many in attendance. Between tracks, frontman Stephan Jenkins shared personal anecdotes about his connection to Milwaukee, adding a layer of warmth and relatability to the performance. The setlist flowed effortlessly, moving through beloved hits like "Semi-Charmed Life" and "Jumper," songs that have long resonated with listeners for their honest reflections on life’s complexities.
Click The Image Above For The Full Josh Ross Gallery By the time Josh Ross hit the US Cellular stage later that evening, he had already built anticipation, and he didn’t disappoint. With his soulful voice and authentic lyrics, Ross drew the crowd in, delivering a set that felt both powerful and relatable. Songs like “Hate How You Look” resonated deeply, capturing the emotional highs and lows that define his storytelling style. His ability to balance vulnerability with an undeniable stage presence left a lasting impression on the audience. Most of his set was played in a steady drizzle of rain. Despite the short notice, Ross commanded the stage like a seasoned headliner, pouring his heart into every song. The passion and honesty in his performance reminded fans why live music has the power to bring people together.
The Dirty Heads delivered an uplifting and unforgettable finale to SummerFest 2025 on the Miller Lite Oasis stage. With their signature mix of reggae, hip-hop, and rock, they created an atmosphere that radiated positivity and togetherness. Their performance was a celebration of living in the moment, as the band’s laid-back grooves and upbeat lyrics encouraged the crowd to leave their worries behind and embrace the good vibes.
Click The Image Above For The Full Dirty Heads Gallery As the final chords rang out, it was clear that Dirty Heads had provided the perfect closing chapter to a weekend filled with diverse sounds and unforgettable performances. Their energy and warmth sent fans into the night with smiles, leaving behind a feeling of gratitude for the shared moments that only live music can create. SummerFest 2025 couldn’t have ended on a higher note, ensuring everyone left with memories that will last a lifetime.
