Bonnaroo Updates (2022): Everything You Need to Know
Every year, the teams behind Bonnaroo create an amazing experience that continues to get better with age. Some would say like a fine wine. What does this mean for us as attendees though? Well… It means that for 2022, Bonnaroo is giving us some BIG upgrades that attendees have been requesting for… well years. So, here’s everything YOU need to know about the Bonnaroo updates for 2022.
Okay so starting with the HEAVY hitters first.
NEW Campground Entry
The delimma of getting into the campgrounds has always been a survival of the fittest for Bonnaroo. I’m talking HOURS of waiting along the interstate, hours of waiting just outside of the turnstiles. Truly- chaos. So, to solve this problem, the team has implemented a daily parking process where attendees will purchase camping tickets directly associated with a specific arrival day and that is the ONLY day they can arrive if wanting to arrive before Thursday (i.e. Tuesday, Wednesday, or Weekend [Thursday- Saturday]). It can be anticipated that Thursday will still be a long wait!
The goal is to better control the number of people arriving on certain days. Make sure you tune in for the recap to see how this is executed and how people perceive the change! If executed well, it could alleviate the wait times in line for attendees, stress and pressure on check-in teams at the entrance, and even stress on local government in the area to support traffic control/deviations!
Better Campground Transportation
Another big problem solver that I’m truly giddy about! Getting around outside of Centeroo (where the music and stages are) is a lot, which usually means missing out on all the amazing activities available at the Plazas (more to come on this). However, for 2022, Bonnaroo has partnered up with Allegiant to bring Jamtrak to the grounds! Above is the concept image, pulled from this Facebook live, gives us hope that easy (and free) access to transportation across the grounds will be there!
Stage Changes
Stage changes are always and exciting, but scary time. It can be a total win, or it could be a TOTAL miss. This year, late night music is moving over to The Other stage. Personally, I feel like this is going to greatly increase traffic flow because it’s closer to the side-entrance of Centeroo. Making it an ideal location for a quick late-night exit versus traversing the entire Farm from the Kalliopi stage. Make sure you check out the 7 Artists You Can’t Miss on the Bonnaroo Late Night Lineup. Other upgrades include a massive haul on the Silent Disco and Who Stage, including new lighting, lasers, and more.
Plaza Upgrades
Every year, the Plazas come back with an even bigger bang, and this one is no exception. Bringing back some of my favorite amenities, such as shade, food, misting stations, and charging stations (phew*), these spots are a HUB of activities for attendees. Not to mention, they are all individually curated for a different ‘vibe’ at every location! So, put that Jamtrack to use and make sure you visit ALL OF THEM.
Another important note, is that some Plazas have specific shopping merchandise only available there, and secret artists sets that are always *announced* so keep your eyes peeled!
Tent & Camping Upgrades
Camping is a major part of the Bonnaroo experience, so they’ve really stepped up their game. For those attendees who are interested in the Platinum packages, enjoy shaded campgrounds just South of Centeroo with direct access to the Artist Lounge.
For those that are looking to avoid the hassle of pitching their own tent, consider checking out the new Darkroom tents available this for all package types not just VIP! They include an air conditioning unit, souvenir gear, inflatable beds, and more.
These are some BIG changes that the team has implemented for the Bonnaroo updates of 2022. Although I’m personally more excited about the entrance changes, all of these upgrades are going to make this years experience THAT much more special. If you haven’t fully prepared yet, fear not! There’s plenty of time. Make sure you check out the Bonnaroo Festival Guide, as well as stay connected on socials so you can join in on Q&As, Lives, and more.
