The sold-out crowd of 85,000 music fans began arriving as early as Tuesday, June 13th, for the 2023 Bonnaroo Music Festival. Even though the actual festival in Centeroo officially kicks off on Thursday, the ever-expanding campgrounds have become a mini-festival, with music and events beginning as early as Tuesday night. Like Walt Disney’s early vision of an ever-expanding Disney World in a Florida swamp in the 1960s, the original promoters picked a perfect spot for the Bonnaroo festival. Located in remote farmland near Manchester, Tennesse, the location offers plenty of wide open space for the ever-expanding festival. The campground areas and their respective plazas have grown most over the last several years.
As the sun rose over the sprawling grounds of the Bonnaroo Music Festival Campground on Wednesday, June 14th, 2023, anticipation filled the air as festival-goers eagerly prepared for the days ahead. The campground, a vibrant hub of activity, buzzed with excitement and the promise of unforgettable experiences.
The day began with a palpable energy as campers arrived in droves, setting up their tents and creating makeshift homes for the weekend. The campground was a colorful tapestry of different styles and personalities, with campers showcasing their creativity through unique campsite decorations, colorful flags, and handmade signs. The atmosphere was filled with camaraderie and shared enthusiasm as strangers quickly became friends, bonded by their love for music and the upcoming festivities.
Throughout the day, various activities and events were scattered across the campground, providing entertainment and opportunities for festival-goers to connect. A lively drum circle formed in one corner, attracting both participants and onlookers who couldn't resist the infectious rhythm. Laughter and music echoed throughout the campground, creating an atmosphere of joy and celebration.
Food trucks lined the pathways, offering various culinary delights to satisfy every palate. From gourmet burgers and tacos to vegan and gluten-free options, there was something to please every festival-goer's taste buds. The aroma of sizzling spices and mouthwatering dishes filled the air, enticing hungry campers to indulge in a memorable dining experience.
Art installations peppered the campground, showcasing the creativity and imagination of talented artists. From towering sculptures to interactive displays, each piece offered a unique opportunity for festival-goers to immerse themselves in a world of visual enchantment. The art installations served as focal points for conversation and appreciation, igniting discussions about the power of creativity and expression.
As nightfall descended upon the campground, the energy reached its peak. Bonfires crackled and flickered, casting a warm glow over groups of friends huddled together, sharing stories and laughter. Acoustic guitars provided the soundtrack to these intimate gatherings, as impromptu jam sessions spontaneously emerged from the depths of the night.
The campground was a lively prelude to the main event, setting the stage for the unforgettable experiences yet to come. It was a melting pot of diverse cultures, where people from all walks of life came together to celebrate music, art, and the collective spirit of Bonnaroo.
By sunset on one of the year's longest days, activities were in full swing across the vast camping areas. At the House of Yes Pavillion, The Dirty Circus, a Burlesque & Cabaret show, was beginning its first performance.
Where in the Woods stage was already in full swing with a full lineup of EDM artists. The electronic music stage located in a forest, complete with hammocks, video games, art installations, and food and drink stands, has become one of the most popular attractions at the Bonnaroo festival. Up-and-coming EDM stars Tomi, Opiuo, Elohim, and Maya Jane Coles kept the crowd raving until near dawn.
At the same time, the Galactic Giddy-Up barn was hosting Americana acts like Briscoe and Kendell Marvel’s Honky Tonk Experience.
Wednesday, at the campground, was an exhilarating day filled with anticipation, camaraderie, and the vibrant spirit of creativity. It served as a testament to the power of music to bring people together and create lasting memories. The stage was set, and festival-goers eagerly awaited the start of the official performances, knowing they were about to embark on a journey of musical discovery that would stay with them long after the festival ended.
