Workers, fans gearing up for Summerfest kick-off on Wednesday

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Summerfest kicks off on Wednesday with the gates opening at noon.

“I’m super excited for Summerfest,” Tyler Wrightsman, music fan, said. “It’s like an 11-day holiday here in Wisconsin so I’m really looking forward to it.”

On Tuesday, hundreds of people worked to set up for the big day.

There were sound checks and several vendors unloading and setting up.  Crews have been getting the grounds ready since mid-April.

New this year, the Uline Warehouse Stage got a makeover. It has a new look with wood and stone and it now has a permanent bar and VIP deck area.

This year the roof was also raised on the American Family Insurance Amphitheatre.

There is also a lot more than just music and food available at the 11-day festival.

This year there are even kayak and paddleboard rentals.

Summerfest employees and fans are counting down the minutes until the big day.

“I can’t wait,” Gayle Littell, Summerfest Executive Producer, said. “Opening day is my favorite day just because all of the fruits of your labor come to fruition.”

Summerfest runs from June 26-30 and July 2-7.

No backpacks are allowed inside the grounds, as well as no outside food or drink. For answers to frequently asked questions, click here.