The Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival officially canceled its 2023 event after heavy rainfall caused extensive flooding at the Manchester, Tennessee site, making the grounds unsafe and unusable for the planned lineup and infrastructure.
Following the cancellation, a wave of criticism has emerged from security staff reportedly employed by W3 Events. A Reddit user claiming to represent security personnel detailed serious concerns including:
- Poor communication and lack of proper orientation or training
- Overcrowded and uncomfortable accommodations
- Limited access to meals and reports of unsafe food conditions
- Long shifts without adequate breaks or nourishment
- Many security workers quitting early due to these conditions
- Continued security presence at an empty site post-cancellation
These revelations have sparked backlash within the festival community, with fans and workers calling out management and Live Nation for what they describe as mismanagement and failure to protect staff welfare.
While the cancellation was necessary for attendee safety given the extreme weather, the fallout has raised serious questions about operational practices and workforce treatment at Bonnaroo under its current management.
Attendees and workers are advised to watch for official updates from Bonnaroo and Live Nation as the situation evolves.
Source: r/bonnaroo