Various promotions offer ways to see Summerfest for free
At $20 each, Summerfest general admission tickets compare favorably to the cost of attending Coachella and the like.
But for those interested in some summer savings, there are numerous ways to get in at a reduced cost.
June 28 (noon to 3 p.m.): Bring three non-perishable items to the Mid Gate Promotions Booth or the North and South Gates to receive one free weekday admission ticket, valid that day. All donations benefit the Hunger Task Force.
June 29 (noon to 6 p.m.): With bands like Berlin, Soul Asylum and Fishbone playing, this #ThrowbackThursday party will include $5 admission, courtesy of Pick ‘N Save. Beverages will be half off as well, excluding ice cream drinks and smoothies.
June 30 (noon to 3 p.m.): Show up to the Mid Gate Promotions Booth wearing red, or armed with a Sendik’s red Bag, to receive one free weekday admission ticket, valid that day.
July 1 (noon to 3 p.m.): If you made at least a $10 donation at a Goodwill Store & Donation Center between June 1 and July 1, you’re in luck. Bring the original, marked receipt to Summerfest to receive one general admission ticket, valid that day. This promotion is popular and will be offered to only 1,500 people.
July 2 (noon to 3 p.m.): The first 2,500 patrons to bring three nutritional, non-perishable items will receive one free admission ticket, valid that day. Suggested items include tuna, fruits canned in 100% juice and low-sodium vegetables. Donations benefit the Hunger Task Force.
July 2 (noon to 3 p.m.): All active-duty military personnel and veterans, as well as up to four family members, can present their Military IDs to get in for free.
July 2 (noon to 8 p.m.): Turning 50 this year? Show your ID to get into Summerfest 50 for free.
July 4 (noon to 3 p.m.): The first 2,500 festgoers who come prepared with a specially marked Mountain Dew can will receive one free weekday admission ticket, valid that day. Limit one can per person.
July 5 (noon to 3 p.m.): Just in time for Children’s Fest Day, patrons arriving during this time frame will be admitted for free. Select food vendors will offer discounts as well.
July 6 (noon to 4 p.m.): Festgoers ages 60 and up will be admitted for free. They will also receive $2 off any food or non-alcoholic beverage purchase over $10.
July 6 (noon to 3 p.m.): Present a valid H.O.G. (Harley Owners Group) card to receive one free weekday admission ticket, valid that day. Limit one admission ticket per card.
July 7 (noon to 3 p.m.): Show an original receipt from any Boston Store, dated June 1 to July 7, to receive one free weekday ticket, valid that day. Limited to 1,500 patrons.
July 8 (noon to 3 p.m.): Donate new or gently used children’s books, valued at $10, to receive one free admission ticket, valid that day. All books will be donated to The Betty Brinn Children’s Museum. Promotion limited to the first 1,500 patrons.
July 9 (noon to 3 p.m.): All fans arriving during the designated times will be admitted for free as part of Summerfest “Fan Appreciation” Day.