Every morning throughout Summerfest 2025, we’ll deliver a guide that covers the day’s entertainment and how you can get in the gate free of charge. This is where you’ll find info about the AmFam Amp headliners, eclectic picks from our knowledgeable staff and the music lineup for the day (see the full 2025 Summerfest lineup here).
Today at the AmFam Amp
Lainey Wilson w/Lukas Nelson, Shane Smith & The Saints, 7:30 p.m.
The 2023 CMA and ACM Entertainer of the Year, Lainey Wilson has enjoyed a landmark couple of years, thanks in large part to her most recent albums, Bell Bottom Country (2022) and Whirlwind (2024). The former won a Grammy for Best Country Album, while the latter climbed into the top 10 of the Billboard 200. She headlines a full night of country featuring fellow Grammy winner Lukas Nelson, and Austin-based Shane Smith & The Saints.
Radio Milwaukee staff pick #1
Grace Weber’s Music Lab & Girls Rock MKE @ AmFam House, noon
Because we are people of integrity and high moral fiber, you know we wouldn’t recommend just because of an organizational affiliation. No, we’re pointing you toward the AmFam House as soon as the gates open because it is genuinely spirit- and soul-lifting to see how much talent flows through our community’s young people.
Girls/Ladies Rock MKE and our own Grace Weber’s Music Lab are so incredibly important to the kids and families they serve because of how expertly they guide burgeoning artists taking their first few tentative steps onto the stage. There are singers and bands within the Milwaukee music scene and beyond that simply wouldn’t exist without programs like these. Seeing the next generation of talent come into their own on stage will top off your tank for a full day of music ahead.
— Brett Krzykowski
Radio Milwaukee staff pick #2
Devo @ Uline Warehouse, 9:30 p.m.
One of my favorite things about Summerfest is being able to go down and see a brand new band for the first time alongside artists that have really shaped the fabric of who I am. Thursday night, one of the best in that second category will headline the Uline Warehouse Stage. I'm talking about a certain American new-wave band from Akron, Ohio — DEVO!
Formed in 1973, Devo’s original lineup was made up of two sets of brothers: Mark and Bob Mothersbaugh, and Gerald and Bob Casalez, along with Alan Myers (I’ve always thought family band members bring a chemistry that’s hard to match).
Although I’m guessing you can sing a good chunk of the lyrics from their 1980 hit “Whip It,” Devo are not just a one-hit-wonder. Their unique art-punk, new-wave, synthy vibes mixed with lyrics steeped in surreal humor and cheeky social commentary is what really connected with underground music fans back in the ’70s and ’80s.
Still fronted by Mark Mothersbaugh, Devo is fully capable of delivering a parade of jams from their first seven albums, all released before the 1990s. I’m going to put this little wish into the atmosphere today: If they bust out the theme song for Pee-Wee's Playhouse at some point, my heart would explode with joy.
This show will be more than just nostalgia. Devo is a super-tight and talented band, so expect a great live rock and roll show, and a big reunion of fans of all ages. It's definitely going to be a dance party, and I don't want you to miss it.
— Dori Zori
Radio Milwaukee staff pick #3
The Avett Brothers @ BMO Pavilion, 9:30 p.m.
It will be a family affair at the BMO Pavilion on Thursday night, when the Avett Brothers bring their unmistakable blend of folk, rock and bluegrass to the Summerfest grounds. Although siblings Seth and Scott Avett are the only band members who are related genetically, the connection they share with Bob Crawford, Joe Kwon and members of the touring band create raw, emotional performances and infectious onstage chemistry. They’re living proof family goes well beyond blood.
Their collaborative songwriting process, which was highlighted in the Judd Apatow directed documentary May It Last (a must-watch for any Avett Brothers or Rick Rubin fan), celebrates love, loss, hope and family— all of which make their performances a powerful, communal experience.
The bond shines through best in their rich harmonies, creating a warmth throughout any venue they play. They can whip the crowd into a frenzy with bangers like “Ain’t No Man” and “Kick Drum Heart” or bring all of the feels with classics like “Murder in the City” and “No Hard Feelings.” Whether you like songs that move you or songs that make you move, this show will offer plenty of both!
— Jeremy Zuleger
How to get in free today
Throwback Thursday presented by Pick ‘N Save, Metro Market and Mariano’s
Get a $5 admission ticket and 50% off select beverages as you enjoy a collection of music through the decades from various throwback artists. From noon to 6 p.m., all beer, seltzer, Cherry Vodka Lemonade, Aquafina Water and soda will be 50% off!
Summerfest schedule for Thursday, June 26
American Family Insurance Amphitheater
BMO Pavilion
- 9:30 p.m. — The Avett Brothers
- 7:30 p.m. — Willy Porter
- 5:45 p.m. — Bandits on the Run
- 4 p.m. — Hosts
- 2 p.m. — Willow Hill
AmFam House
- 5:30 p.m. – Special events with Christian Yelich
- 4 p.m. — Mayday Parade
- Noon — Grace Weber’s Music Lab/Girls Rock MKE
Miller Lite Oasis
- 10:15 p.m. — Mayday Parade
- 8:30 p.m. — The Maine
- 6:30 p.m. — The Summer Set
- 4:30 p.m. — Olive Vox
- 2:45 p.m. — Be the Young
- 1 p.m. — Avenues
UScellular Connection Stage
- 10 p.m. — Gavin Adcock
- 8:15 p.m. — Lecade
- 6:30 p.m. — Landon Smith
- 4:30 p.m. — Cowboy Mouth
- 3:15 p.m. — Scout Speer
- 12:45 p.m. — The Incident
- 2 p.m. — Bound for Branson
Generac Power Stage
- 9:30 p.m. — The Psychedelic Furs
- 7:45 p.m. — The Chameleons
- 6 p.m. — The English Beat
- 4 p.m. — Circa 79
- 2 p.m. — The Quilz
- Noon — The Taxmen
Briggs & Stratton Big Backyard
- 10 p.m. — Claire Rosinkranz
- 8 p.m. — Sofia Camara
- 6 p.m. — Lille Venn
- 4 p.m. — Mike Skill, formerly of The Romantics
- 2 p.m. — Neriah
- Noon — John Kocher
Uline Warehouse
- 9:30 p.m. — Devo
- 7:30 p.m. — The Producers
- 5:30 p.m. — Xposed 4Heads
- 3:30 p.m. — Freddy Jones Band
- 1:45 p.m. — Brett Newski & The Bad Inventions
- Noon — Lost Orange Cat
Aurora Pavilion
- 9 p.m. — DJ Gemini Gilly
- 7 p.m. — Allison Russell
- 5:45 p.m. — Tiera Kennedy
- 4:30 p.m. — Wildered
- 3:15 p.m. — Violet Wilder
- 12:15 p.m. — Rockonsin Finals Competition