Transportation
1. Eco-Friendly Transportation
Whether it’s MCTS’s CONNECT 1 Brit line, The Hop or Bublr Bikes, there are many options to get to Summerfest that keep the environment in mind. According to a Milwaukee Office of Sustainability 2020 report, transportation accounts for 33% of Milwaukee’s carbon emissions, and 87% of those emissions comes from on-road vehicles. Plus, if you skip a car commute, you can meet someone new on a shuttle or admire the city around you while traveling outside.
Shopping
2. Philomena + Ruth
Philomena + Ruth is a vendor and recipient of the BMO Empower Grant Program at Summerfest this year. Owner Elizabeth Hahn believes that clothing should be “comfortable, casual, and intentional.” The brand’s handcrafted items, such as their vintage style tees, place a focus on USA-grown materials and minimal waste. Each item from Philomena + Ruth also shares social messages and the hope that change be done through small acts of solidarity.
Experience an unforgettable evening celebrating great design!
3. Kalina & Co.
Kalina & Co., another recipient of the BMO Empower Grant Program, is offering permanent jewelry services at Summerfest this year. You can choose from sterling silver or gold-filled bracelets in over 12 styles and have the piece micro-welded around your wrist. These “forever bracelets” are a sustainable practice, as they last for many years and eliminate some of the need for fast fashion jewelry products. Check out Kalina & Co. at the Shop Local Market.
4. Papyrus & Charms
Founded by Lilo Allen, Papyrus & Charms combines Allen’s love for jewelry and crystals with her Afro-Caribbean culture. The store’s products, including rings, candles and charms are ethically and sustainably sourced. A “From Jamaica, With Love” collection features bags made by Allen’s father, all of which use African fabrics and recycled materials. You can find Papyrus & Charms at the Shop Local Market.
5. The Lost Highway Sign Company
Based in Tucson, Arizona, The Lost Highway creates art from recycled license plates, wood and soda tabs. Artist Levi Koenen creates customized license plate signs, tables, keychains and other unique creations. You can find his work at the Artisan Makers Market.
6. Scents & Such
If you’re on the hunt for a new aromatic candle, why not make it one made with soy wax? As opposed to paraffin wax, soy candles are made with renewable resources and actually burn slower, meaning you get more bang for your buck. Scents & Such offers a variety of soy wax candles with names like “Girls Trip” and “Saturday Morning.” Scents & Such, which is a recipient of the BMO Empower Grant Program, will be located at the Artisan Makers Market.
Eats
7. Island Noodles
Hale Lake founded Island Noodles over two decades ago, creating a healthy and tasty food option for events. The meal includes fresh Yakisoba noodles, 21 fresh vegetables and a secret island-style sauce. Island Noodles are served in BPI-certified cups made from compostable and recyclable materials. Go to the Mid Gate Area for a taste of this one-of-a-kind bite.
8. Pete’s Pops
When you’re looking to cool down at the fest, check out Pete’s Pops. The frozen popsicles come in a variety of over 70 flavors, and the menu rotates throughout the seasons. Pete’s Pops always offers flavors without any of the top-8 allergens and all pops are made with natural, fresh ingredients. Pete’s Pops will be located at the Generac Power Stage.
Performances
9. Sheryl Crow and Dave Matthews
What do Sheryl Crow and Dave Matthews have in common? They’re both headliners at Summerfest and they are both co-founders of the Green Music Group. This coalition of musicians aims to encourage environmentally conscious behavior throughout the music industry and the world. Both artists have committed to sustainable touring practices, as well as using their platforms to advocate for the environment. You can see Crow perform on June 24 and the Dave Matthews Band on June 29, both at the American Family Insurance Amphitheater.
