The Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival in Manchester, Tennessee, is underway with tens of thousands of fans gathering for over 150 performances this weekend. Headliners include Red Hot Chili Peppers, Post Malone, and Pretty Lights at the 700-acre farm campground and concert venue. The festival, which kicked off on Thursday, features live music on more than 10 stages, with performances running through the night and into the early morning, including sunrise sets.
The Red Hot Chili Peppers’ headlining performance on Saturday went past midnight, with the band playing some of their biggest hits. Lead singer Anthony Kiedis, who had an orthopedic boot on his left foot and a knee brace on his right leg, invited the audience to join them for an “after party” at a local Waffle House. Other performers at the festival include Megan Thee Stallion, Cage The Elephant, Maggie Rogers, Melanie Martinez, and more. Bonnaroo has a history of featuring diverse lineups from Elton John to Paul McCartney over the past two decades.
The festival also includes a 24-hour cinema, comedy club, beer festival, and theater performers. Bonnaroo’s annual attendance averages around 80,000 people, with some acts being streamed on Hulu for those unable to attend in person. Medical crews have been treating heat-related conditions due to the high temperatures, while some attendees have struggled with restrictions on sunscreen bottles and aerosol cans at the entry. Many festival-goers have been improvising with canopy and tent combinations for shade to cope with the hot and sunny weather.
Over the years, Bonnaroo has become known for hosting a wide range of artists, from Jay Z to DeadMau5 and Bruce Springsteen. With performances from a variety of genres and entertainment options beyond music, the festival offers a unique experience for attendees. As the festival continues through the weekend, fans can expect more exciting performances and activities to enjoy. Bonnaroo remains a staple in the summer music festival scene, attracting fans from across the country to come together for a weekend of music and arts in the Tennessee countryside.
