The Lumineers closed out Summerfest 2025 the way only they could, with sincerity, harmony, and a sold-out amphitheater full of fans yelling “Ho!” and “Hey!” like their lives depended on it.

Headlining the American Family Insurance Amphitheater on Saturday night, the Colorado-born folk rock band brought a warm, emotional close to three weekends of nonstop music on Milwaukee’s lakefront. This wasn’t their first time playing Summerfest or the venue, but it might’ve been their most triumphant.

For many in the crowd, it wasn’t just the end of a festival, it was a moment of reflection, connection, and collective singing that felt bigger than any fireworks show that the holiday weekend could offer. From early hits to newer gems, The Lumineers reminded us how powerful simple and honest songwriting can still be.

Here are 9 reasons you shouldn’t have missed it.

1. They always deliver on the Summerfest grounds

Whether it’s a headlining tour or part of Summerfest’s official lineup, The Lumineers have made Milwaukee a frequent stop and every time they show up, they bring the house down.

2. It was the final night of this year’s Summerfest

You only get one shot to close out the world’s largest music festival, and The Lumineers made sure the last night was something to remember.

3. It was another sell-out

If you were still hunting for tickets the week of, you were out of luck. It was one of the most in-demand sets of the entire festival and the packed amphitheater proved it.

4. “Ho Hey” was made for this setting

Some songs are destined to be sung outdoors, shoulder to shoulder with strangers, all yelling in rhythm. “Ho Hey” isn’t just a hit it’s a group therapy session under the stars.

5. They sounded flawless

No frills, no filler,  just pitch-perfect vocals, tight instrumentation, and harmonies that hit you in the chest. Wesley Schultz sounded as fresh as ever.

6. One of their last Milwaukee shows triggered the end of the world, so it couldn’t get any worse than that

One of the last times The Lumineers were performing in Milwaukee (at the Fiserv), the world shut down due to COVID-19. This time? No global pandemic followed. Just good vibes and banjo solos.

7. They played the hits and then some

“Ophelia,” “Angela,” “Stubborn Love”, they were all there. But fans were also treated to deeper cuts and newer favorites that made the set feel rich and well-rounded.

8. They proved why they’re perfect festival closers

Not every band can command a massive amphitheater crowd without pyrotechnics or flashy visuals. The Lumineers did it with raw emotion and timeless songs.

9. Jeremiah and Wesley are still doing it 20 years later

Bandmates Jeremiah Fraites and Wesley Schultz have been making music together for two decades now, and it shows. Their chemistry, trust, and passion radiated from the stage and it was contagious.