21 ejected from Summerfest after several altercations break out during 'World's Largest Music Festival'

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Milwaukee's lakefront was packed over the last three weekends as thousands filed in for the annual Big Gig.

Summerfest, also known as "The World's Largest Music Festival," attracts visitors from all over the world each year.

This year, Sabreena Holland decided to take her family on the event's last day, July 5.

"I just ended up taking my cousin and sister and brothers, and we all just ended up going up there," Holland told CBS 58's Ellie Nakamoto-White.

The group decided to go earlier, during the day. But when they were riding the Sky Glider, Holland said she looked down and noticed a commotion.

Right below her carriage were dozens of festgoers who were quickly beginning to throw punches and break into a brawl.

"I was like, oh crap, they're fighting!" Holland said. "I couldn't believe it, you know, I usually hear about these things or see other people post them and stuff but actually being involved and seeing it myself was kind of eye-opening."

In a video taken by Holland, personnel wearing police vests and security guards in red can be seen rushing to stop the fight.

But just hours later, another video, taken by Mike Razo, shows another large group of individuals getting into an altercation on the grounds.

Milwaukee police confirmed they responded to "several fights" on July 5 and ejected 21 people from the festival.

Summerfest officials said they were also aware of another altercation on June 28, that was "quickly brought under control."

Milwaukee World Festival Inc. sent CBS 58 a statement on the fights which reads in full:

"The safety and well-being of our fans, artists, staff, partners, and vendors are Summerfest’s top priorities. On an ongoing basis, Summerfest officials review and update safety protocols and take any necessary steps to maintain a secure and enjoyable environment for all attendees. Summerfest is committed to providing a positive experience for everyone

Festival officials are aware of isolated altercations that took place among patrons on Saturday, July 5. Summerfest security, with support from Milwaukee Police Department officers, quickly brought these under control. Summerfest does not tolerate any type of behavior that could affect patrons, artists, staff, and partners. Fighting, harassment, or any disruptive actions are strictly prohibited and will result in immediate removal from the festival grounds.

Summerfest’s security team, in partnership with the Milwaukee Police Department, actively monitor the festival grounds. All Summerfest attendees are subject to security screenings, including metal detectors and bag inspections, to ensure the safety of everyone in attendance."