For the first time in roughly a decade, I missed the opening day of Summerfest. I'll make up for it during the next 10 days, during which I expect to pass through the gates at least seven or eight times.

But, that first day always brings a sense of renewal, re-invigoration and a feeling that summer has truly arrived.

Here are five of my favorite things about Summerfest:

1. The Big Sip. I always like to savor my first beer of Summerfest. I go back to the days when they cost $1 and came in those waxy cups with the smiley face logo. It always tasted like it was piped fresh from the brewery. It's always one of the best beers of the summer.
2. The Big Reunion. I love the fact that I can stroll the grounds and reconnect with friends from way back in the day and folks that I usually only "see" on Facebook and Twitter. At times, it's like a giant reunion. Summerfest is also a prime location for people watching. You definitely see all shapes and sizes.
3. Morning at Maier Festival Park. I've spent much of my professional life in stadiums and arenas in the hours before they were open to the public. There is always a cool "calm before the storm" vibe. Because of my radio duties, I get to walk into the grounds before the festival opens. I see workers scurrying around to clean, restock supplies and prepare for the party and, in a way, I feel right at home. The breakfast items that Major Goolsby's sells to workers and early arrivals are outstanding, too.
4. Hidden treasures. There is something magical about walking past a side stage and being drawn in by music from a band you've never seen or heard. If it makes you buy a CD or dive deeper into a band's catalog, it can be enriching.
5. The first chord. When you've been looking forward to seeing a band for weeks, there is a definite rush when the band hits the stage and launches into its first song. Combine that with a warm night, a cold beer and a beautiful setting near the Lakefront and you've pretty much hit on Summerfest nirvana.

Now, you may have noticed that I left various food items off my list. I thought about it, but that's a different blog. What are your favorite things about the Big Gig?