Summerfest presented by American Family Insurance has unveiled one of its most exciting announcements for 2026: internationally acclaimed rock band Muse will headline the festival for the very first time. The performance is set for Thursday, July 2, 2026, at the legendary American Family Insurance Amphitheater, marking not only a milestone for Summerfest but also Muse’s long-awaited return to Milwaukee after more than 15 years.
The announcement comes on the heels of the release of Muse’s latest single, “Unravelling”, which dropped on June 20, 2025 and is now available on all major streaming platforms. The new track has been celebrated for its cinematic energy, introspective lyrics, and the band’s unmistakably dynamic production style—elements that have defined Muse’s legacy across three decades.
Fans eager to witness this historic show won’t have to wait long to secure their spot. Tickets go on sale Friday, November 21 at 10:00 a.m. through Ticketmaster.com, Summerfest.com, or in person at the American Family Insurance Amphitheater Box Office. In true Summerfest fashion, every concert ticket will also include same-day admission to the festival, giving fans an immersive experience filled with music, activities, and the vibrant festival atmosphere along Lake Michigan.
For updates and details, fans can visit Summerfest.com.
A Look at One of the World’s Biggest Rock Bands: Muse
Muse—comprised of Matt Bellamy, Dominic Howard, and Chris Wolstenholme—have carved out a reputation as one of the most innovative, theatrical, and boundary-pushing rock bands of their generation. Formed in 1994, the trio has spent over 30 years crafting a sound that blends alternative rock, progressive influences, electronic experimentation, and orchestral grandeur. Across their nine studio albums, Muse has sold over 30 million units worldwide, amassing a global fanbase drawn to both their music and their explosive live performances.
Their most recent album, “Will of the People,” debuted at #1 in multiple countries, including the UK—where it became the band’s seventh consecutive #1 album. The record also topped the charts in Austria, France, Finland, Italy, and Switzerland. Prior to that, “Simulation Theory” made a similar global impact, debuting at #1 in numerous territories. Their 2015 release, “Drones,” earned Muse one of their biggest career achievements: the Grammy Award for Best Rock Album, their second Grammy win.
In total, Muse has received an impressive list of accolades, including two Grammy Awards, an American Music Award, five MTV Europe Music Awards, two Brit Awards, eleven NME Awards, and seven Q Awards, among many others. Their consistent ability to evolve while maintaining artistic integrity has solidified them as one of the most respected bands in modern rock.
With their powerful vocals, intricate instrumentation, and unparalleled stage production, Muse’s live shows have become the stuff of legend—and their long-awaited return to Milwaukee promises to be a standout moment of Summerfest 2026.
About Summerfest: A Historic Celebration of Music and Community
Summerfest presented by American Family Insurance stands as one of the most iconic music festivals in the United States. Since launching in 1968, the festival has brought together the world’s largest acts and rising talent for an unmatched live music experience. Spread across the 75-acre permanent festival grounds along Lake Michigan, Summerfest offers hundreds of performances on 12 stages, drawing music lovers from across the nation and beyond.
The 2026 edition of Summerfest will run across three weekends—June 18-20, June 25-27, and July 2-4—promising a diverse lineup, unforgettable headliners, and the signature electric atmosphere that has defined the festival for nearly six decades.
Beyond the music, Summerfest represents a powerful community-building mission. Milwaukee World Festival, Inc., the nonprofit producer of Summerfest, remains committed to offering accessible arts, recreation, and cultural events to the public. Through both festival programming and year-round special events, the organization continues to enrich the Milwaukee community and showcase the transformative power of live performance.