APPLETON, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) — Day one of the four-day Mile of Music Festival kicked off Thursday morning in Appleton.
Organizers expect 100,000 people to visit the 40 stages.
Like previous years, the 2022 edition remains free for all visitors.
“I think it’s something that makes the festival so unique is that anyone in the community no matter where you stand financially, can come and enjoy the festival,” said Mile of Music Events and Social Media Manager Kim Willems.
In 2020, Mile of Music was canceled due to COVID. This, as well as the size of the festival, has made it more difficult for event organizers like Willems to keep the event free.
“We have always relied on sponsorships,” she said. “So, it’s been a challenge, especially in a year where you’ve got COVID.”
This year, a recently-formed local non-profit, Appleton Community Music, partnered with the festival to raise additional funds. Founder Tom Doney said it’s important to keep it free since it’s helped build a sense of community for the Fox Valley.
“It ultimately is a draw for people,” he said. “It gives them an easy outlet to experience the live music where perhaps, in other circumstances, they wouldn’t do it.”
The fundraising is entirely through community donations. The money goes towards artists’ lodging and food.
“As far as people, I think no one should be turned away if they want to experience live music,” said first-time Mile of Music performer Joy Clark.
Clark said she appreciates the way the festival makes it easy for anyone to go to — so do Mile of Music veterans like Mitchell Becher.
“Keeps it open to everyone in the valley, no matter where you are in life or what your financial status is,” he said.
Organizers hope to continue making Mile of Music free beyond 2022.
