PrideFest Milwaukee 2018 returns with star-studded lineup

Milwaukee, WI - PrideFest Milwaukee announced its star-studded entertainment lineup on Friday with the B-52s, Jussie Smollett and Daya taking the Miller Lite Main stage this June 8, 9 and 10.

Over the years, the three-day all-LGBT festival has become a must-attend Midwest event and this year is positioned to shatter last year's all-time attendance record of 37,682 attendees.

PrideFest Milwaukee 2018 opens Friday, June 8 with Grammy award-winner Daya as the headliner on the Miller Lite Mainstage. Known for catchy hits like "Sit Still Look Pretty," and "Hideaway", Daya took home a Grammy for her collaboration with The Chainsmokers on their hit, "Don't Let Me Down."

On Saturday, June 9, PrideFest will welcome actor, director, singer/songwriter, Jussie Smollett, one of the stars of the wildly successful television drama, Empire. Smollett is fresh on the heels of his new album release, "Sum of My Music" on March 2nd, and recieved a 2016 NAACP image award for Outstanding New Artist.

And after years at the top of the PrideFest "artist wish list" submissions, the board and production team are thrilled to announce the Sunday June 10 headliners, the B-52s. This legendary band has had audiences dancing to hit after hit for decades.

Organizers also announced an all-new kick-off party planned for Thursday, June 7. The celebration will take place in the Dance Pavilion. The $10 admission price includes entertainment, featuring the internationally known east coast DJ trio, Cash Cash along with a lineup of local entertainment including DJ's, Drag artists, dancers and more.

This year marks the third decade of Pride celebrations in Milwaukee. PrideFest Milwaukee began in 1987, thanks to the efforts of the Milwaukee Lesbian/Gay Pride Committee. PrideFest Milwaukee remains the world's largest LGBTQ pride festival staffed entirely by volunteers. Last year the organization celebrated its 30th anniversary.

Milwaukee's festival is unique among Pride festivals in that it has its own, permanent festival park to call home. While most Pride events around the country, including Chicago, take place at block parties, neighborhood parks, or temporary stages, PrideFest Milwaukee is now celebrating its 22nd year at Henry W. Maier Festival Park, home to Summerfest, the nation's largest music festival, as well as Milwaukee's summer ethnic festivals.

$30 Weekend Passes are now available at pridefest.com.