Torrential rains and flash flooding forced the abrupt cancellation of the 2025 Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival in Manchester, Tennessee, after only its first full day. The festival, which began Thursday, was scheduled to run through the weekend, boasting a star-studded lineup including Tyler, the Creator, Olivia Rodrigo, and Hozier. By Friday afternoon, organizers suspended performances and evacuated Centeroo, the main festival area, as the National Weather Service issued severe weather alerts and forecasts predicted continued heavy rainfall.

Campgrounds, particularly in the “Outeroo” area, quickly became waterlogged and, in some cases, inaccessible, prompting festival staff to prioritize evacuating attendees in the most vulnerable conditions. Those with stable accommodations, such as RVs or pre-pitched tents, were advised to remain on site until safe exits could be arranged. Social media was flooded with posts from disappointed fans and artists alike, with several acts announcing cancellations even before the official shutdown.

Organizers emphasized that the decision was made out of concern for safety as conditions continued to deteriorate. “We are beyond gutted, but we must make the safest decision and cancel the remainder of Bonnaroo,” read a statement from the festival team. Many fans expressed heartbreak but also relief that safety was prioritized. This marks the second major weather-related disruption for Bonnaroo in recent years, following a similar cancellation in 2021 due to flooding.

Refunds were promptly announced for all ticket holders. Those with one-day tickets for Friday, Saturday, or Sunday, as well as parking passes, will receive full refunds. Attendees who purchased four-day passes or camping packages through official channels are entitled to a 75% refund, with all reimbursements expected to be processed within 30 days. Further details are available through the festival’s official website and confirmation emails.