Bonnaroo is a once (a year) experience that is constantly expanding, growing, and changing constantly. It was the very first festival that I ever attended and it was actually what inspired me to start this blog! When it comes to Bonnaroo there areĀ tons of different things that you should know. Luckily, their website provides some REALLY great starting information (check out theirĀ FAQ and experience guide here). For those tips that you just need to try to believe- you’ll find all of those right here!
If you’re reading this then you’ve either already bought your Bonnaroo tickets, OR, you’re considering buying them. Worry not- we’ve all been in your position. The great news is that this page can give you a little insight into the festival, but I promise going to Bonnaroo will be so good for your vibrations!
WHAT TO EXPECT
Bonnaroo is exceptionally diverse. Not only in the type of people who flock to it, but also in it’s lineup, it’s campgrounds.Ā Everything. It’s what makes this place home to so many people from so many different walks of life. Something you’ll notice that is theĀ same with everyone is that they allĀ radiate positivity. Radiate Positivity is the ‘theme’ of Bonnaroo. During this 4-5 day repreive from the real world, people fully embody and uphold this mantra.
Outside of great people, there’s great activities and music too. From year to year the lineups boast huge name artsists from tons of different genres, ranging from EDM, Country, Rap, Pop, and so much more. With 6 stages just INSIDE the main venue, and another handful outside of the main venue, there’s music 24/7.
As if it there wasn’t enough to inside Centeroo, there’sĀ tons to do in the plazas! You’ll notice on the maps that there are between 10 and 11 plazas (11 is typically only opened during sold out events!)- each plaza representing a different experience. Not mention, most of these plazas have stages where artists will perform surprise/secret sets!
GETTING INTO BONNAROO
GETTING IN LINE
The campgrounds open on Wednesday evening/Thursday morning and close at noon on Monday. PeopleĀ typically start lining up around noon on Wednesday! You willĀ seeĀ the line before you start to see the signs for Bonnaroo (usually along the side of the road). The line will beĀ longĀ but it’ll be worth it!Ā PLEASE DO NOT CUT FELLOW BONNAROOVIANS. We know- it’s long. But we all wait- do the PLUR thing.
SECURITY & CAR CHECKS
Like any good event, there’s obviously going to be a security checkpoint before you get into the offical grounds. These checks occur at two points- both of which are the home to several turnstyles. At that point, the teams are going to check your car looking for prohibited items. They do have police and bombsquad dogs on the premisis and they DO perform checks at random! There are several ways to breeze through these checks though- so worry not!
ADVENTURE IS OUT THERE!
Outside of Bonnaroo being a music festival, there isĀ so much adventure to be had on The Farm. Honestly, there’s so much to see that there’s a good chance you’re not going to be able to see it all. The best part though? There’s something forĀ everyone.Ā
THE CAMPGROUNDS
Bonnaroo is housed on a 700 acre farm,Ā Great Stage Park. This festival, outside of the main venue (Centeroo) has 10-11 Plazas sprinkled throughout the grounds (see picture to the left!). Within each plaza is music, food, experiences, and unique shopping. The campgrounds have two entrances, as well, they fill in from front to back. So the sooner you arrive and get through security, the ‘closer’ to the entrances you’ll be! There is definitely an art when it comes to Bonnaroo camping- the timing, the gear, everything. I talk more about specifics over in my camping section!
CENTEROO
Centeroo is the home for all ‘lineup’ music. Not to mention some bangin’ food, great shopping, and tons of unique experiences. This is the main music venue and where you’ll find yourself most of the time! The gates typically open around 8am, letting people in for breakfast and morning yoga. You can also find these in the plazas if you don’t want to go to Centeroo though! For first timers, make sure that you go under the archĀ at least once. I promise- it’s 100% worth it.
I am super stoked for https://www.bonnaroo.com/ !!!