SINCE ITS founding in 2002, Bonnaroo has blossomed into one of the largest music festivals in the United States, annually welcoming tens of thousands of attendees to “The Farm.”
The festival is a powerful force for economic prosperity for our community. The Tennessean published information from an economic study in 2024. The report said that, in 2023 alone, Bonnaroo infused an impressive $339.8 million into the regional economy, generating over $5.1 million in tax revenue and supporting 4,163 full-time job equivalents. This substantial contribution builds on a history of significant economic activity, including $97 million for Tennessee in 2019. Beyond its direct financial impact, Bonnaroo deeply invests in its community through the Bonnaroo Works Fund, a nonprofit that has donated over $5 million to charities focused on arts, education, and environmental sustainability. A portion of every ticket sale directly supports vital sustainability efforts, such as a permanent compost pad and solar array.
Bonnaroo has also shown real resilience and a commitment to its attendees. Following the unfortunate cancellation of the 2025 festival due to severe weather, organizers swiftly responded to fan feedback. Initially announcing a 75% refund, they quickly pivoted to offer full refunds for all ticket types, showcasing their dedication to attendee satisfaction and long-term loyalty. Looking ahead, Bonnaroo is proactively engaging its community by launching a survey to gather input on future event dates, including the possibility of shifting to later in the summer or early fall to mitigate weather challenges. This collaborative approach underscores the festival’s dedication to ensuring the “most memorable weekend” for its “Bonnaroovians” and its willingness to evolve for a sustainable and bright future. Bonnaroo embodies a spirit of positive impact, even with dark skies and roaring thunder. GN
