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The Promised land. This is the main entrance
gate to the Summerfest grounds. Flanked on both sides by a motorcycle
vanguard, these gates now give entry to what many were calling Harleyfest.
Tickets had been sold out for months, and were going for six to eight times
their $50 face value.
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For the faithful, passing under the freeway
which fronts the main gates is a bit like ancient man passing the pillars
of Hercules, and entering a new world.
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Left:
Just inside the gates, and we are invited to get our (free) birthday
celebration magazines.
Below:
walking the grounds, and looking around. The gates have just opened,
and the crowds have not really grown to their full splendor yet.
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One good way to get an over view (literally)
of the celebration is by riding on the Sky Glider. This is essentially
a ski lift, built over the Summerfest grounds.
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All Aboard.
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A celebrant digs for his camera as the car
rises above the grounds.
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This couple looks back at their friends,
as they head up to tour the festival grounds.
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This was probably as good a way as any to
start of a day at the festival grounds. It permits viewing of the building
crowds, and allows for a look at the grounds before deciding on the day's
activities.
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Looking ahead at the workforce exhibit, which
shows some classic bikes, as well as a bit of the history of the company.
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Lots of riders are up here with me, and the
lift stayed full all day.
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Above:
A nice over view of the northern section of the grounds, with one of several
amphitheaters visible.
Left:
Above the crowds and looking around.
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A good view of the lake, with a classic old
wooden schooner.
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A canopy of trees shields the ground from
the sun, and momentarily isolates us from the crowds on the ground, though
there are plenty of people up here too.
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More crowds, with the highway, and the arch
of the Hoan bridge visible.
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A pair of little ones (future Harley buyers,
it is hoped) dangle over the people beneath, as their parents point out the
sights below.
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Wow, look at all of those people down there!
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A look at downtown Milwaukee, from above
the festival grounds.
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A tree lined grove, and lots to do (and buy)
below.
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Looking ahead to the rest of the weekend
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Who is that behind those Foster Grants?
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Skirting a rooftop, and heading back into
the trees.
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A Harley Davidson sculpture/pillar dominates
the center of the grounds.
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The Summerfest grounds, on which the celebration
is being held, border the lake. Many people step away from the crowds for
a moment, and enjoy the relative solitude of the water.
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An excursion boat offers to take party goers
a bit further out on the water.
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