MILWAUKEE — Summerfest 2021 is shifting its festival dates from June to September to "give health professionals more time to vaccinate the general public."
Milwaukee World Festival, Inc. announced on Tuesday that Summerfest was moving its dates to Sept. 2-4, 9-11, and 16-18.
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The festival was originally scheduled to take place for several weekends in June and July.
Valerie Benton is the lead singer of Valerie B. & the Boyz and co-lead singer of the V Funk Band. They performed during the last Summerfest in 2019.
“It’s a privilege because there are so many bands that want to be at Summerfest,” said Valerie.
She said this past year has been difficult for all musicians, but she understands why Summerfest had to cancel in 2020 and is now postponing its dates in 2021.
“When venues started closing, a little bit of me started closing too, but we all know that it’s safety first,” said Valerie.
Summerfest CEO Don Smiley said after speaking with healthcare leaders, the decision was made to postpone the music festival, to allow more time for people to get vaccinated. He said the hope is more people will be vaccinated by then making it safe for Summerfest to host large crowds.
"We feel very encouraged people will be able to get vaccinated and the rollout will pick up steam if given more time," said Smiley.
This is the fourth time the festival has been rescheduled. Smiley said he understands some people might be disappointed, but he said it was the right call.
“We are not in this alone, there's are other people to think about, other people to worry about, there are other people to consider,” said Smiley.
As musicians wait for an opportunity to perform again, Valerie B and her band said they are working on perfecting their craft until that day comes.
"When it’s finally, finally open, I’m gonna give my best, best performances because it’s all bottled up,” said Valerie.
To learn more about Summerfest’s new dates and ticketsclick here.
To follow Valerie B. & the Boyz click here