Summerfest's 2007 attendance was 892,005, a 3.1 percent increase over last year's number and within the range of 825,000 to 900,000 that Milwaukee World Festival, Inc. had planned and budgeted for.

Summerfest has said that it's not all about the numbers.

"The 40th Anniversary of Summerfest was a special and successful event. I am very pleased to see Milwaukee World Festival, Inc. achieve the objectives set forth by the Board of Directors, which include increasing revenue with manageable attendance levels," said Howard Schnoll, chairman of the board of Milwaukee World Festival, Inc. in a news release.

To compare, 948,503 attended in 2000 and 867,754 in 2004. 2005 saw 901,841 people enter the beautiful Lakefront grounds.

Summerfest exceeded last year's combined revenue totals from gate ticket sales and food and beverage commissions generated during the 11 day run by 4.9 percent and exceeded its operating revenue budget goal for the categories.