Bonnaroo Festival in Tennessee Abruptly Canceled Due to Severe Storms
The 2025 Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival, held in Manchester, Tennessee, was canceled Friday, June 13, after torrential rain persisted throughout the day. Organizers made the safety-driven decision after consulting the National Weather Service—anticipating continuous downpours that would worsen camping conditions and impede movement.
By 1:30 p.m. CT, crews evacuated Centeroo, the central concert zone, advising campers—especially those in mud-impacted areas or with limited mobility—to move to safer spots like Outeroo or RV accommodations. Food vendors and medical aid remained operational while evacuation efforts ramped up.
Though disappointed, many fans showed understanding and solidarity:
“It sucks…but safety first,” said one Reddit user.
Reported muddy conditions sparked shared frustrations and camaraderie from festivalgoers reminiscing about past experiences—though this year’s turnout marked a mood of cautious acceptance.
The festival kicked off Thursday with performers like Luke Combs and Dom Dolla. However, Tyler, the Creator, Olivia Rodrigo, Avril Lavigne, Hozier, and Vampire Weekend were all canceled due to the shutdown.
Organizers have promised full refunds for one-day ticket holders and 75% rebates for four-day passes and camping purchases. The refunds are set to be processed automatically through original payment methods within 30 days.
The festival statement expressed gratitude and regret: "We are beyond gutted, but we must make the safest decision." Emphasizing care for vulnerable campers and accessibility needs, organizers asked stable-site attendees to remain on-site overnight to ease the evacuation process.
