'We've raised the roof 26 feet:' Phase 1 of American Family Insurance Amphitheater project 90% complete



American Family Insurance Amphitheater



MILWAUKEE -- Under construction for several months, FOX6 News on Monday, May 13 got an update on major improvements being made to the American Family Insurance Amphitheater at Maier Festival Park, ahead of Summerfest 2019 -- June 26-July 7.

With the countdown to the World's Largest Music Festival on, FOX6 caught up with crews racing to finish the multi-million dollar remodel.

"We've raised the roof 26 feet," said Sarah Smith Pancheri, VP of sales and marketing for Milwaukee World Festival, Inc.

As of Monday, Phase 1 was 90 percent complete.

American Family Insurance Amphitheater



"The production capabilities will be considerably larger. We can accommodate 13 semis at one time. A new commissary, 19 new dressing rooms, as well as new production offices," said Smith Pancheri.

"The Piggy Mac" -- Cousins Subs



"The Piggy Mac" -- Cousins Subs



Fans will be able to see the upgrades when the gates open for the Big Gig on June 26. Also debuting during this year's Summerfest -- Cousin's brand new sub dubbed "The Piggy Mac."

"It has pulled pork, bacon, sautéed onions, Wisconsin smoked gouda, and our brand new Wisconsin mac 'n cheese," said Justin McCoy, VP of marketing for Cousins Subs.



The sandwich was unveiled Monday and served to the construction crew in celebration of their achievement.

"So it's all things Wisconsin. Super indulgent. Very cheesy," said McCoy.

McCoy and Smith Pancheri called the new menu and upgraded amphitheater an effort to enhance the overall Summerfest experience.

American Family Insurance Amphitheater



"It really is to ensure that Summerfest is the World's Largest Music Festival, but also one of the best venues in the world to see music," said Smith Pancheri.

Phase 2 of the amphitheater project will begin as soon as Summerfest 2019 wraps up.

Big Gig Giveaway



Meanwhile, Summerfest officials invite fans to enter the "Big Gig Giveaway" -- an opportunity to win amphitheater tickets and more!

The Big Gig Giveaway contest runs through June 16. Fans can enter to win a VIP experience, including two tickets to an American Family Insurance Amphitheater concert, VIP deck access, Ticketmaster Terrace passes, a Summerfest store gift card, dinner courtesy of Cousins Subs, and parking.  CLICK HERE to enter!