Festival Wire has spotlighted an active conversation on r/bonnaroo about the ongoing tradition—and occasional controversy—of totems and flags at Bonnaroo.
A long-time totem carrier shared wisdom on the ins and outs of flag-waving at the festival: they praised totems as vital tools for group visibility and good vibes, but stressed using them responsibly to avoid blocking other fans’ views or disrupting the flow.
Key advice from this seasoned flag bearer includes:
- Position large flags at the edges or back of crowds.
- Use collapsible poles to shrink your totem in dense situations.
- Lower or set down flags after regrouping.
Community reactions varied but largely agreed on the need for moderation. Smaller totems generally get the thumbs-up as handy meeting points; bigger flags sometimes cause friction by taking up too much live show space.
The forum thread also featured lighthearted memes, including one joking about lawn-mowing vs. drug use, adding a bit of levity to the etiquette talk.
What about official rules? Bonnaroo permits totems under 7 feet tall with a maximum 1-inch diameter, crafted from lightweight materials like swim noodles, foam, or aluminum. Wood, metal, and PVC totems are banned to keep things safe and manageable. (Full policy here)
In short: Bonnaroo’s totems remain a cherished part of the experience—but respect is key. If you’re flying a flag or guiding your crew, think size, placement, and fellow festival-goers’ enjoyment.
The original poster invites all attendees to keep an eye out for their featured flag this year—stop by, say hello, and share the bonnaroo spirit responsibly.
Source: r/bonnaroo