5 Things You Should Know About Bonnaroo

An event that started as a fun project a group of friends put together in 2002, Bonnaroo is where every Tennessean wants to be in mid-June. With around 80,000 attendees each year, the lineups are always impressive, and the fun never stops. However, if this is your first time going to the Roo, there are a few things that you need to know beforehand.

#1 Everyone reads the Bonnaroovian Code

Much like Burning Man and Mardi Gras, Bonnaroo has its own rules and practices. Thankfully, you can be on the same page with everyone else by reading the Bonnaroovian Code. “Radiate positivity” is the first tenet that everyone thinks about when they hear Bonnaroo, which sets the tone for a fun and relaxing environment.

Another important one is “Respect the Farm,” since Bonnaroo is known for its great eco-friendly initiatives. Knowing the Code is a great way to feel the energy of the festival and even strike a conversation with fellow Bonnaroovians.

#2 There is a New Festival Map Every Year

The organizers are very thorough in providing festival goers with all the necessary resources to get around the Farm. You can find the festival map of the year on their website, which we recommend you download and keep with you everywhere you go. There are actually two maps: one of Centeroo and one including the campsites. Both will be helpful to get around the festival.

Talking about getting around, it’s important to mention that traffic during Bonnaroo is nothing to joke about. Thousands of people get together during the event and if there’s one thing that you don’t want to do, that is to worry about finding a good parking spot or finding a safe route to the airport. Booking a professional car service is always a great idea. You will get a premium and stress-free experience.

#3 Anyone can Go in the Pit in Front of the What Stage

Even though VIPs and Premium attendees have their own special views of the stages, anyone can have a great view of the What Stage. The key is patience. Depending on the artist going up on stage, the line to enter the Pit could go on for hours. Still, if your favorite band is performing, it might be worth it.

Another tip is to sit at the left side of the stage since that is where the performers get off, and you can request a classic Bonnaroovian high five from an artist you admire. However, nothing beats the perks that come with a VIP ticket, especially the camping amenities.

#4 Shade is Your Best Friend at Your Campsite

Bonnaroo takes place in the middle of June, on a field in Tennessee. This means that the sun will be scorching hot for most of the day. There are a few ways in which you can prepare for this, including bringing sunscreen, a battery-powered fan, and a hat or shawl to put on your head during high noon.

On top of that, it’s vital that you prepare your campsite as well. Bringing a shade canopy is a must because your tent will become a proper greenhouse under the Tennessee sun. Fortunately, if you have a VIP or Premium ticket, the organizers will take care of this issue for you.

#5 You can Pay Everywhere with Bonnaroo Cashless

Carrying your credit card or large amounts of cash with you around a crowded event can be quite risky. This is why adding your card to the Bonnaroo Cashless system is the best way to purchase anything at the festival. This will simply link your card to the wristband on your arm, so that you can pay for food, drinks, merch, or anything else that catches your eye.