Bonnaroo Skips 2027 to Recover from Storm Damage

The Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival will not be held in 2027, marking the first time the iconic Tennessee event has taken a voluntary hiatus since its founding in 2002. Organizers announced the decision on August 21, 2026, citing the need for the festival grounds to recover from a series of severe weather events that have disrupted recent editions.

In a statement posted to social media, the Bonnaroo team described the move as a "much-needed year off" to allow the festival's home on a Manchester, Tennessee farm to rest and recover. The announcement confirmed widespread speculation that had been building among fans and industry observers since the conclusion of the 2026 festival in June, when organizers did not immediately announce dates for the following year.

The decision comes after a tumultuous period for the festival. The 2025 event was cut short after just one day due to heavy rains and flooding. While organizers invested millions in infrastructure improvements ahead of the 2026 festival, including a new drainage system, 4.5 miles of new roadways, and 135 acres of new grass, weather issues persisted. The 2026 edition, held from June 11 to 14, was marked by mud, a...