Summerfest Gets Underway with Open Ceremonies

CBS 58—Summerfest is officially underway, kicking off Wednesday with the opening ceremonies.

In true Wisconsin fashion, things began with the UW tradition, “Jump Around.”

“The first day to me is one of the best days there is,” said Randy Riemer, who’s attended nearly every Summerfest. “It’s the beginning of true summer in Wisconsin.”

For many people, the 11 day festival is a chance to spend time with loved ones.

“It’s somewhere can come in the summer time, enjoy the weather and time together as a family,” said Rachel Jackson, who spent the day at Summerfest.

With more than 800 acts this year, hundreds of thousands of people are expected at the big gig. Veteran Summerfesters say day one is a chance to scope out what’s new and plan the week.

“Back in the day, we used to come down every day, back in the 70s,” said John Koller.

Nancy Peterson, a life-long Milwaukee resident, just turned 76 and has been at all of the 49 Summerfests.

“It gets better, better with age, just like me,” Peterson said.

Day one of Summerfest wrapped up with a fireworks show and performances from stars like Selena Gomez, Willie Nelson and Dustin Lynch.