The Lumineers | The Early Registration

Photo by Dan Garcia/The Early Registration

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.

BY TER STAFF

Under the starlit sky, a wave of nostalgia and excitement swept through the crowd gathered at the American Family Insurance Amphitheater in Milwaukee, WI. The Lumineers were set to deliver a memorable performance and the enchanting lakefront venue on the Summerfest festival grounds provided the perfect backdrop for an evening of exceptional music, with James Bay warming up the stage as the opening act.

The night’s musical journey commenced with the mellifluous tunes of James Bay. With his soulful voice and masterful guitar skills, Bay effortlessly held the audience’s attention. His intimate performance created an ambiance of anticipation, setting the stage for the Lumineers’ much-anticipated appearance.

As darkness descended, the Lumineers took the stage amidst an eruption of cheers and applause. The atmosphere was electric with anticipation, and the band’s performance did not disappoint. They effortlessly moved through their repertoire, delivering heartfelt renditions of fan-favorites and new tracks alike. The raw emotion in Wesley Schultz’s vocals resonated deeply, creating an intimate connection with everyone present.

The Lumineers’ last Milwaukee concert had inadvertently become a symbol of the pre-pandemic era, making this performance even more special. The audience found themselves immersed in a shared experience, reliving the power and magic of live music.

As the Lumineers concluded their set with a resounding finale, the echoes of their performance lingered in the air, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of the audience. The night encapsulated the healing power of music, a reminder that even during challenging times, the melodies that move us can bring solace, joy, and a sense of togetherness. As the crowd slowly dispersed, the echoes of their performance remained, serving as a reminder that music has the ability to unite us and evoke powerful emotions, no matter the circumstances.

Check out our amazing photos from the memorable night, from our photographer Tess Trueblood below.

Photos by Tess Trueblood/The Early Registration