MILWAUKEE — Summerfest officially kicks off at noon on Thursday.

Its return comes after the Big Gig was cancelled in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

While the gates may still be closed and the sky glider quiet, the grounds are already a flurry of activity. Outside the main gates, fans gathered hours early Wednesday in anticipation of the Green Day concert, which will be the first concert to take to the stage.

Jason Riley left his home in Indianapolis at 3:30 a.m. Wednesday to be among the first in line. For him, it is worth missing a day of college classes.

“We did just start, it's basic stuff so I can take the small hit,” Riley said. “I think it will be worth it because Green Day, Fall Out Boy, and Weezer, that lineup is never going to happen again.”

From fans to Summerfest staff, it is exciting to be back. It is especially exciting for Summerfest CEO Don Smiley, who has worked over the past two years to ensure the event’s safe reopening.

Smiley said it takes a large team effort to make sure everything is ready to go for Thursday.

“It takes thousands of people, vendors, to pull this event off and just couldn’t be more proud of them for everything they do,” Smiley said.

To find out more information about Summerfest, including their COVID-19 entry requirements, visit their website.