The Bonnaroo festival has officially announced its return in 2026, after the unexpected cancellation of its 2025 edition due to “record-setting rainfall.”
Last month, the event in Manchester, Tennessee, was abruptly called off when organizers realized that the updated weather forecast predicted unsustainable conditions for attendees, with heavy thunderstorms affecting the area. While the festival started off on a positive note, with performances kicking off on Thursday, June 12, the decision to cancel the rest of the event was made on Friday night due to severe weather.
The lineup had included big names like Luke Combs and Rebecca Black on the first day, with headliners Tyler, The Creator, John Summit, and Glass Animals scheduled for Friday night. Saturday’s highlights were set to feature Olivia Rodrigo, Avril Lavigne, and Justice, while Hozier, Vampire Weekend, and Queens of the Stone Age were slated to close the event on Sunday.
In a recent statement, the festival organizers confirmed that Bonnaroo will be back at its usual location on June 11-14, 2026. They acknowledged the unusual weather this year, stating, “Experts have confirmed that we experienced record-setting rainfall this spring and early summer, making this situation highly irregular. Given everything, our traditional June timeline remains the best option for Bonnaroo.”
Some changes will be implemented ahead of the festival’s 2026 return. The most affected campground will no longer be used, and organizers plan to invest significantly in enhancing campground facilities and other areas. There will also be modifications to site and stage planning, which are part of a “multi-million-dollar, multi-year plan.”
Following the cancellation of the 2025 event, it was announced that those affected would receive 75% refunds, which led to considerable backlash. In response, organizers stated that they would now offer full refunds. They expressed their commitment to improving the festival grounds and assured fans, “This cancellation was heartbreaking, but it was essential for your safety.”
Additionally, just days before the event was canceled, it was reported that Jonathan Mayers, co-founder of the event company Superfly Entertainment and a driving force behind Bonnaroo and Outside Lands, had passed away.
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