Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival has announced plans to skip its 2027 edition, citing the need for the venue to recover from recent weather-related challenges. The Manchester, Tennessee-based festival has experienced significant difficulties over the past several years, including a premature cancellation in 2025 just one day after it began due to severe atmospheric conditions.
Festival organizers detailed extensive preparation efforts undertaken before this year’s event, including infrastructure improvements designed to withstand harsh weather. These upgrades encompassed enhanced drainage systems, nearly 4.5 miles of new roads, and 135 acres of freshly seeded grass. Despite these investments, another substantial rainstorm during the 2026 festival demonstrated that the grounds require additional time to fully recuperate.
In a statement posted on social media, organizers acknowledged the difficult nature of their decision while emphasizing their commitment to Bonnaroo’s long-term success. The festival has faced multiple weather-related setbacks in recent years, including cancellations in 2020 and 2021. The 2026 festival proceeded as scheduled in mid-June, featuring performances from notable artists including the Strokes, Noah Kahan, and Kehlani.
Originally reported by Variety →
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