Summerfest celebrates 55 years of musical memories with 'Fest Fan of the Past 55' contest

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Summerfest is inviting music lovers 18 years and older to share their favorite memories of the event and become the "Fest Fan of the Past 55" as part of its 55th anniversary celebration.

The annual festival has a rich history dating back to its inception in 1968 and continues to attract music fans from around the world.

"I love walking the grounds and hearing all the different styles of music and people really performing their heart out for our fans," said Sarah Pancheri, president of Milwaukee World Festival. "The festival has a lot of fans that have tremendous ownership in what we do and their own memories."

To participate in the contest, fans are advised to visit Summerfest.com and share their fest stories before March 31. Stories can range from attending the festival for the first time in 2022 to having attended every Summerfest over the past five decades. Even a single memorable concert or festival experience is welcome.

"We have hundreds of people that have already told us their story and that's really what it's about," Pancheri said. "Tell us why you love Summerfest and it's an important part of your life."

The ten finalists for "Fest Fan of the Past 55" will be announced on April 11. The winner will be selected through a combination of online fan voting, which opens the same day, and votes from a celebrity judging panel from the Milwaukee area.

The winner of the contest will receive a prize package that includes a private party during the 2023 festival for the winner and 100 guests, with a $2,000 food and beverage credit and 100 Summerfest General Admission tickets.

Additionally, the winner will receive two 2023 US Cellular "Power Passes," two tickets to a show of their choice at the American Family Insurance Amphitheater during Summerfest 2023, a $100 Summerfest gift card and one signed Summerfest memorabilia item.

The Summerfest Fest Fan of the Past 55 winner will be recognized during the festival and announced in May.