EACH SUMMER, Manchester shakes off its small-town quiet and bursts to life as Bonnaroo rolls in, transforming our backyard into a bright, colorful world all its own. The thick summer air comes alive, and the roads we know all too well — usually lined with local diners and friendly waves from porch swings — become a lively fusion of food trucks, handmade art stands, and an endless stream of festival-goers. For a few magical days, our little Southern town becomes the center of something bigger than itself — a montage of music, laughter, and community.
This four-day celebration powers the local economy, fills our streets with new faces, and reminds us just how special our hometown really is. For Manchester folks, Bonnaroo isn’t just something that happens to the town — it’s something we’re a part of.
The festival brings an estimated $52 million to the local economy, touching just about every corner of town. From packed hotels and busy restaurants to mom-and-pop shops and food trucks, the dynamism sticks around long after the last encore. Local craftsmen, makers, and small businesses set up shop inside the festival gates because this town understands that “supporting local” doesn’t stop at the county line.
Mayor Joey Hobbs reflected on Bonnaroo’s lasting influence: “We have been working with and hosting Bonnaroo for 20 years now. There is no doubt that the festival has an incredible economic impact on our city, county, and state. As most people are aware, the festival attendees shop in our local stores, eat in our local restaurants, and stay in area hotels, all of which add to our tax revenue.”
He added that event organizers generously support several local nonprofits. Most importantly, he stated, Bonnaroo allows the city of Manchester to welcome folks from all over the world to our town.
He continued, “While the traffic congestion and crowds can create a temporary headache, the positives of the event greatly outweigh the negatives. I just try to re- member that the citizens of Pigeon Forge put up with way more than this, and that’s all year long. So, I say embrace the event, welcome the attendees, and in the words of the festival itself, ‘embrace positivity’ for those few days.”
Bonnaroo’s music is as diverse and lively as the crowd. This year, Tyler, The Creator brings his unmistakable blend of hip-hop and neo-soul to the stage while country’s golden boy Luke Combs belts out the kind of songs that make you want to raise your drink and sing along. Pop sensation Olivia Rodrigo, a Gen Z icon, adds her pop edge to the lineup.
Leon Thomas smooths things out with his soulful, layered sound, and Queens of the Stone Age promise to crank up the volume with their unapologetic rock. And returning fan-favorite Goose, the jam band sensation who lit up the stage back in 2022, will reunite with loyal fans for another unforgettable set.
For locals, Bonnaroo is an invitation to rediscover the charm of Manchester. Why book a trip when one of the world’s biggest music festivals is right in our backyard?
Grab a room at a cozy bed and breakfast, spend the day exploring our shops and eateries, and then head to the farm when the sun goes down. Whether you’re dancing to Tyler, the Creator, or swaying to Luke Combs, Bonnaroo turns Manchester into a vacation without the travel.
So, this summer, consider a staycation that offers the excitement of a getaway. Immerse yourself in Bonnaroo’s music, art, and welcoming community. Support our local economy, discover new artists, and create unforgettable memories right here in Manchester. Celebrate the fact that, while Bonnaroo may attract global talent, it’s Manchester’s heart and soul that makes it unforgettable. GN
