APPLETON, Wis. (WFRV) – A summer tradition returned to downtown Appleton for its twelfth edition.
The sweet sounds of Mile of Music filled the air of Appleton on Thursday. Organizers told Local 5 News that between 80,000 and 100,000 people will visit the festival over its four days. There are three main stages at Jones Park, Lawrence University, and Houdini Plaza, and several smaller stages at various bars and restaurants in the downtown Appleton area.
The event pumps in around $7 million into the local economy. Tony Mueller, the owner of the Wooden Nickel Sports Bar & Grill, said this is the busiest week of the year for them, and they make about three times more than they would during a normal summer week.
“It brings out such a big variety of people who enjoy music,” he told Local 5 News. “They’re all well behaved, and they’re so nice.”
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“This is a huge economic boost for downtown Appleton businesses whether you’re hosting a musician or not you’re engaged in Mile of Music,” said Jennifer Stephany who is the executive director of Appleton Downtown, Inc. “From retail stores carrying special items and staying open longer to the artists that are visiting there are so many ways to embrace Mile of Music. The whole downtown comes together.”
Over 200 artists from around the country perform their original music at the festival. Longtime festival attendees said they love the laid-back vibe, the variety of artists and genres, and said people are just incredibly nice around here.
“It’s the best music festival I’ve ever been to,” said Bob Delso of Neenah, who says he’s come to Mile of Music all 12 years of its existence. “You can plan your day and see just about any kind of music if you’re really interested in it.”
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It’s also great exposure for all the artists who come out and perform.
“The people who attend are so ready to listen to songs,” said folk musician Chris Gold. “You don’t have to work at all to win them over, so you can go right into the best version of yourself. It’s noticeably friendly, like everyone walking around town is in a good mood. And they’re excited about seeing something new.”
Organizers remind attendees that they can’t bring their dogs to special events like Mile of Music per Appleton city ordinance. Also, open alcohol containers aren’t allowed on public streets or sidewalks. People must finish their drinks in the bars and restaurants and in parks where drinks are being sold (Jones Park).
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For more information about Mile of Music, please click here. Organizers suggest downloading the app, which has the complete schedule of music across the four days.
“Come without a plan, and just kind of wander around because inevitably you’ll find someone great in an unconventional space,” Gold said.
