Wisconsin has a number of festivals throughout summer and autumn, something to celebrate the brevity of good weather, and revel in it while it lasts. So, another concert at the lakefront, big deal, right?

Well, not quite. This one IS a big deal. Not just in the lineup and not just in the venue, but the purpose – This is Rock The Green.

Rock The Green is a concert with a purpose – and not just to make money, either. It is to raise environmental awareness, educate patrons on the benefits of sustainability, and most importantly, provide a rocking good time for all! The idea behind Rock The Green (RTG) is to bring several artists together, each with their own environmental stories, and have them share not only a good story, but (hopefully) their passion for a sustainable future as well. The event will take place on Sunday, September 18 at Veteran’s Park on the lakefront. The lineup is set to include national headliners such as: The Fray, Ben Folds, Fitz and The Tantrums, Michelle Branch, Parachute, and Evan Christian.

One of the largest highlights of the concert is that almost everything will be sustainability-related. RTG will be powered by solar and bio-diesel generators will have managed waste reclamations/recycling processes, a free refillable water bottle with plenty of watering stations on site, and a free on site bicycle valet. All of this has the idea of creating a near-zero environmental impact event. Add to this that there will be local vendors featuring farm fresh cuisine and beverages, and a host of other vendors from Milwaukee and the surrounding areas that all deal directly or indirectly with green and/or sustainable energy, most of who will have interactive exhibits at the event.

The best part is that the tickets are: $25 in advance, $35 day of the show, and there is a special reserved viewing area in front of the stage for just $50.

They can be purchased through Ticketmaster or at www.rockthegreen.com/tickets.