The Reviews Are In: THAT SUMMERfest..."I danced, I sang, I even cried"

Garth Brooks turned Milwaukee’s legendary Summerfest into THAT SUMMERfest for thousands of people this week when he kicked off the event with back-to-back sold-out shows.

"I was truly convinced after the first night, the second night wouldn't match the energy of night one,’ Garth says. “From the start, the energy of the second show SHOCKED me...and they kept that energy up all night long. If I could recommend a festival for artists to play and people to go to, it would be SUMMERFEST. From their production to the people who run the gates, concessions, merch, ushers, and security...I've never seen it done better."

Local news stations reported that nearly 50 percent of fans came from out of state, with some driving to Wisconsin from as far away as California and Florida for the show. Local news stations reported that the influx of Garth fans led to a year-over-year spike in midweek hotel reservations.

After reading fans’ comments, it’s clear the extra miles and dollars were worth it to hear their favorite Garth songs. They raced to the internet by the hundreds to share their experiences after the show.

Here’s what they said:

Little Fire Heart Music wrote:  Last night I attended a concert of a true icon in country music, Mr Garth Brooks.

When you attend a concert of someone you grew up listening to, there's a deep connection within your soul as you realize you are sharing physical space with a person whose music defined your memories.

It was Garth's first concert in over a year since his Las Vegas residency in 2025, first "tour" since 2022. He has not had a concert in Wisconsin since 2015.

And boy did he and his team put on a phenomenal performance.

I was grateful to have the opportunity to see him live. My seat was further away, but sometimes you don't need the best view to experience the energy, the positivity, that raw connection you experience within.

I danced, I sang, and I even cried. Garth's raw emotion and happiness for being there was something I'll never forget. He literally told his band "It's okay to suck, just go out there and have fun". You could see them all having a blast and they gave one heck of a great performance.

I was impressed to find out Garth still has the original band members from 1988 in the early 1990s with him. The trust, the devotion... Knowing what it was like to start from the beginning and building a true solid foundation for years to come. Garth paid true homage to his team, introducing each one individually with their attributes they have given to support his career. It was more of a recognition speech from the heart to his band. The talent on that stage, impeccable.

I applaud you, Mr Garth Brooks, for the outstanding performance. You sir are truly a legend and thank you for doing what you do.

For those of you attending tonight, show in Milwaukee-

Live in the moment. This is an experience you won't forget

Colin Leibham said: That Garth show very well might have been the best concert I've ever seen.

I truly thank God For Unanswered prayers. If you ever get the chance go see Garth. You will not regret it. Hes coming back to the Am Fam Amp sooner rather than later and tickets shouldn't be an arm and a leg. I really don't know what else to say except that was insane. Just wow. #LeftSide #Boomer

Tonia Burdette Rizzo gushed:  When your daughter buys you tickets on the lawn and Garth's people move you to first row and not just front row but the absolute best seats in the house!!!!

That was the most amazing experience! The people we sat with were so fun and just as grateful for the opportunity....oh and Garth Brooks touched me!@!@@♡ I cried sang and danced the entire night. Thank you again Lilly

Julie Steinhorst posted:  The emotion and intensity in which he sings is overwhelming. Had goosebumps for 95% of his show and it was warm!

Kathleen Streif declared: The best concert I have ever been to. Seems to me that he's an amazing soul and loves his fans and crew.

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