If you bring a backpack to the Big Gig this summer, prepare to be turned back.

This morning, Summerfest announced that it updated security rules and protocols for the 2018 festival – including a ban on backpacks of any size, as well as no bags larger than 9 x 10 x 12 inches. Guests who bring these prohibited bags to Summerfest will be instructed to empty them out into a clear bag provided by the Big Gig and then either return the bag to their car or home, or donate the bag. 

"The safety of our Summerfest fans is our top priority," said Milwaukee World Festival, Inc. President and CEO Don Smiley, in a press release. "We are enhancing these policies to create a more efficient entry into the festival by limiting items that can be brought onto the grounds. We encourage our fans to leave all prohibited items at home. The less you bring in, the more time you save entering the gate."

For the sake of expedience at the gate, patrons are told to leave backpacks as well as other prohibited items (which there is no storage for at Summerfest) at home. Cinch bags or clutch purses under the size restrictions will still be allowed and special accommodations may be taken for parents with infants and those with medical needs – though all bags will still be searched. 

As with past recent years as well, all visitors and employees will be expected to walk through metal detectors before entering the grounds. 

OK, so now that we got that serious business out of the way, WOO, SUMMERFEST STARTS IN LESS THAN 30 DAYS! Even fewer if you include the free Diplo concert kicking things off on June 22! So stay tuned to OnMilwaukee for more announcements, updates and special Big Gig content as the world's largest music festival gets even closer.