The Bonnaroo Arch
The last two days of Bonnaroo saw lots of sunshine and even a little rain and lightening. Centeroo was completely evacuated due to bad weather around 8:45 p.m. on Saturday, with all shows halted until a storm system passed through the area. Festival goers were sent back to their cars and campgrounds for safety and all were encouraged to share their shelter with those at the festival without a vehicle. Though the weather never got too bad, with just moderate rain and some lightening in the sky, precautions are always wise. The wait-out lasted an hour until they officially reopened the gates to Centeroo and revised the concert schedule. All performers still received their full playing time, just with a later start.
There were many shows of note throughout the four days of the festival, yet surprise guests are always a special treat. English band Chvrches, brought out Hayley Williams, of rock-group Paramore, to perform a song together. Acoustic troubadour Jason Mraz played a surprise set that was only announced the day before he performed. Electronic duo The Chainsmokers welcomed Halsey to share their stage for a new, unreleased song during their late-night set. J. Cole brought out Chance the Rapper for his audience to enjoy as well.
Despite a small dip in attendance numbers for the festival which usually garners 80,000 fans, Bonnaroo isn’t slowing down one bit. Bonnaroo organizers are already thinking ahead to next year’s festival and have announced it will take place June 8-11, 2017.