A vibrant thread on r/bonnaroo has exposed a split fanbase wrestling with the idea of higher ticket prices to reduce crowd capacity at Bonnaroo. A recent poll shows most attendees are reluctant to pay more, signaling strong resistance against added costs despite hopes for a better festival experience.
Key fan takeaways:
-
Financial pinch: Many festivalgoers are already feeling stretched by soaring living expenses and see price increases as an unfair burden pushed by Live Nation onto the fans.
-
Experience trade-off: Some accept that moderate price hikes paired with smaller crowds could improve logistics, safety, and overall vibe—many dream of a more relaxed, less congested Bonnaroo.
-
Proposed compromises: Ideas floating include raising VIP pricing specifically, cutting attendance by 5-30%, and only increasing costs if clear upgrades are delivered.
-
Value recognition: A faction praises Bonnaroo’s relative value compared to pricier festivals and are willing to pay more to preserve the quality and community feel.
-
Skepticism: A wary group doubts Live Nation will follow through on true capacity reduction, fearing they’ll hike prices but revert to large crowds without improved event management.
This ongoing community conversation captures the uneasy balance music festivals face in 2025: delivering a top-tier experience while managing ballooning artist fees and operational costs — all without alienating their core fans.
Broader Context
-
U.S. festivals in 2025 have trended noticeably more expensive amid increasing artist fees and production costs, compounding already high attendee expenses for travel, camping, and essentials.
-
Bonnaroo’s 2024 edition saw a base ticket price increase justified by the need to maintain quality amid rising expenses. (Source)
-
The 2025 festival dropped its traditional physical ticket gift, redirecting funds toward essential on-site upgrades like stage and restroom enhancements, which drew mixed reactions from the fan community. (Source)
As Bonnaroo fans debate affordability versus quality, the festival’s approach will reflect a wider industry challenge: how to retain loyal attendees without sacrificing the experience or the festival’s financial viability.
Source: r/bonnaroo