If you have never heard of Bonnaroo, here are the basics: a 700-acre farm in Manchester, 80,000 people, and 150 musical acts. If you have been, chances are you don't even need to read this article because you made up your mind to go again as you were leaving with tears in your eyes last year. College is a great time to go, because many of those who attend are in their lower 20's, just like you, and are from every part of the country. Everyone who has ever been apart of the experience can agree on these five amazing reasons that YOU should attend Bonnaroo this year:
1. The CommunityThis is what sets Bonnaroo apart from your average music festival. The people who attend are not your average concert-goers. They are the hippies of our generation, the most friendly and peaceful people I've ever met. Positive vibes everywhere! You won't go a day without high-fiving someone, and you WILL make friends. You will also see and meet some of the most interesting people you could ever encounter.
2. CampingBefore Bonnaroo, I had never been camping, and honestly I was scared. There is no electricity and no running water. However, your car is right next to your tent, which means all you need is a car charger for your phone. You can also pay to take a shower, but I would recommend just bringing an excess of baby wipes and dry shampoo and you won't have any problems. Turns out, camping is actually pretty fun when you're surrounded by thousands of amazing people.
3. The FoodGyros, fried oreos, ice cream. The variety of food is almost as big as the variety of music, and it's all delicious.
4. The ArtArtists from everywhere in the country come to Bonnaroo to sell their art in the artisan craft market, which includes everything from paintings to jewelry to handmade clothing. You will most likely return home with a unique and beautiful souvenir. Also, there is colorful and meaningful art everywhere at the farm. Artists bring paint and transform the walls into beautiful murals.
5. The MusicThe lineup this year is one of the best they've had. It doesn't matter what genre of music you swear by, there will be something for you at Bonnaroo. There are multiple major headliners, such as Elton John (!!!), Kanye West, Wiz Khalifa, Jack White, Lionel Richie, Vampire Weekend, The Arctic Monkeys, and Skrillex. You can see the full lineup at http://lineup.bonnaroo.com. Just the concerts themselves are well worth the price of the tickets. Plus, they're general admission, which means you can be in the front row for your favorite artist if you are willing to get there early enough. The musicians put their all into their performances, and they love the energy that the 'Roo crowd brings.
The dates for this year's festival are June 12-15. Tickets are out February 22nd at 12:00 pm, so make the most of your summer break this June and attend. See you on the farm!