MILWAUKEE — Summerfest kicked off Thursday in Milwaukee.
People from all across Wisconsin are making their way to the three weekend long music festival.
People were excited to enter the festival grounds as soon as gates opened.
Joanne Willis attended on the first day. It was her first time back since the pandemic. She said the food, drinks and music are great, but the best part of Summerfest is the people.
“I advise everyone who’s out there who loves entertainment and eating to come on down,” said Willis.
For one festival goer, the experience is about more than just the music. Michael Durst is from Union Grove and has been going to Summerfest for almost 10 years.
“I am just so thrilled,” said Durst. “It gets me out of the house. I’m a senior citizen and disabled. I try to get out as much as I can and Summerfest is a good excuse because I love music.”
It may be easy to spot him among the crowd, dressed in a full Viking costume. He said the shiny metal is a conversation starter.
“I just love the people here,” he said. “I have people coming up each year like, oh I’ve got your picture last year, can I get another one this year?”
There’s a meaning behind his costume. It’s something that brings Durst joy in challenging times.
“I have chronic lymphatic leukemia,” said Durst. “I’ve had it for about 9-10 years.”
He said the reactions he gets from festival goers are a form of therapy. Durst said it’s what has helped his treatment journey.
“Seeing people smile when I come back in my costume has made me feel better,” said Durst.
If you see the viking roaming around, durst said to be sure to say hello. It’ll make his day. He’s hoping to bring smiles and laughter for as long as he can.