What was supposed to be a weekend of music, memories, and good vibes at Bonnaroo 2025 quickly turned into a tense situation on Friday, June 13, as festival organizers were forced to issue an emergency evacuation due to severe weather threatening the grounds.
As thunderstorms swept into Manchester, Tennessee — home of the annual four-day music festival — Bonnaroo officials took to Instagram with an urgent message: attendees were to “exit Centeroo immediately” and shelter inside a vehicle. For those without cars nearby, the festival urged them to find a friend who had one. “Severe weather is approaching,” the warning read. “Please head calmly to the nearest exit.”
The evacuation notice quickly rippled through the festival grounds, catching many fans off guard just as Day 2 was picking up steam. A follow-up update from organizers added that they expect the storms to affect “The Farm” for the next few hours, and both Centeroo and the festival toll entrances were being shut down until the dangerous conditions passed. “Please remain in a vehicle,” they reiterated, emphasizing safety above all. “We know you’re curious about today’s schedule and we will update you as soon as we can.”
The timing couldn’t have been worse, as Friday’s lineup was one of the most anticipated of the weekend. Major acts including Tyler, the Creator, John Summit, and Glass Animals were set to take the stage, with additional performances planned from Megadeth, JPEGMAFIA, Marina, Goose, and others. For now, it’s unclear whether these performances will be rescheduled, shortened, or canceled altogether.
This year’s Bonnaroo had already kicked off on a high note Thursday night with performances from Luke Combs, Dom Dolla, Insane Clown Posse, and Rebecca Black. Spirits were high as thousands of fans descended upon the farm for the 2025 edition of the beloved festival, ready to soak in live music across every genre.
If the weather clears and the festival continues as scheduled, fans can still look forward to big-name performances throughout the weekend. Saturday and Sunday are slated to feature appearances by Olivia Rodrigo, Avril Lavigne, Nelly, RAYE, Tyla, Arcade Fire, Hozier, GloRilla, Vampire Weekend, Remi Wolfe, Role Model, Alex Warren, and many more.
For now, the safety of attendees remains the top priority. This isn’t the first time Bonnaroo has had to deal with severe weather — in past years, storms have occasionally disrupted performances or caused delays. However, the festival is known for its strong communication and commitment to keeping everyone informed and safe.
Festival-goers are urged to stay tuned to official Bonnaroo social media channels for updates regarding when Centeroo will reopen and whether Friday night’s performances will be rescheduled. In the meantime, those on-site are reminded to remain in their vehicles and avoid open spaces until the storms have passed.
Let’s hope Mother Nature gets back on our side soon — and that the music can continue under clear skies.