Bonnaroo Cancellation: Attendees Detail Muddy Conditions and Safety Concerns Amid Record Rainfall

Bonnaroo Cancellation: Attendees Detail Muddy Conditions and Safety Concerns Amid Record RainfallManchester, TN – The recent cancellation of the Bonnaroo music festival has sparked widespread discussion among attendees, with many sharing their experiences of the challenging conditions on the ground. The decision to call off the event was primarily attributed to severe weather, including heavy rainfall and subsequent flooding across the festival site.One attendee, Madi Marotta, shared her perspective in a recent video, detailing the extent of the waterlogged grounds. "It did storm like on and off for a couple hours," she stated, noting that while her campsite was manageable, other areas experienced significant flooding. Marotta emphasized the critical safety implications, particularly for individuals with disabilities. "They legally cannot operate anything unless they have like ADA access," she explained, highlighting concerns about navigating muddy terrain with crutches or wheelchairs. She added that even golf carts would have been unable to traverse the conditions.The region has reportedly experienced its rainiest year in five decades, contributing to the saturated ground and inability for water to drain. This pre-existing condition exacerbated the impact of the recent storms, leading to widespread mud and literal "ponds" in central areas of the festival.Organizers issued a 75% refund for tickets, camping, and parking passes. While some attendees expressed disappointment, Marotta acknowledged the necessity of the cancellation due to the unsafe environment. She also raised questions about the festival's scheduling, suggesting a move to a less rainy season to avoid future disruptions. Despite the cancellation, artists were reportedly still compensated.