"It's a recognition we have grown:" New restrictions, changes coming to 40th Annual TosaFest

WAUWATOSA -- Changes are coming to TosaFest. The 40-year-old festival runs two days in the heart of the village and this year, there are new restrictions and changes to admissions.

Tosafest

It takes a lot to get ready for a festival.

"This is the time all the little details come together and that's what makes it exciting," said TosaFest Organizer, John Raisler.

TosaFest is celebrating its 40th year with new music stages, food and activities. But those aren't the only changes.

"It's really a sign of today's times and it's a recognition we have grown," said Raisler.

Organizers and police have put together a new safety policy, taking cues from other festivals in the area.

"We came up with a plan to have admission points and fencing around the rest of the festival and kind of regulate people coming in," said Wauwatosa Police Department Lieutenant Paul Leist.

Orange fences will be placed around the perimeter and five checkpoints will be set up.

Tosafest

"No one is going to be searched and there's not going to be metal detectors," said Lieutenant Paul Leist.

Also, anyone younger than 18 will not be allowed inside without a parent after 3 p.m., and everyone will be required to wear a wristband.

"Unattended and unescorted young people can potentially create an issue," said Leist.

Issues organizers want to avoid and they are optimistic those attending will agree.

"We've embraced an admissions policy and it's really fostering and promoting family participation at the festival," said Raisler.

Organizers and police say the safety measures are not set in stone for next year. They will be assessing the changes moving forward.

An estimated 30,000 people will attend TosaFest -- admission is free.

TosaFest 2015 runs Saturday, September 12th and Sunday, September 13th. For more information on TosaFest, CLICK HERE.