It seems like it was only yesterday when I dropped a good penny on a Bonnaroo ticket in February telling myself how I would have to wait four months until the fun began. Fortunately for me time flew by and here I sit at my hotel room satisfied from day one of the four-day music and arts festival located in Manchester, TN.
Playing it smart, my friends and I left a day early for Tennessee so we could be rested and ready for the event that compares to a modern-day Woodstock. Choosing a hotel over camping we made way around the lunchtime hour to the event a little worried as the weather was calling for thunderstorms throughout the day.
Entering the Bonnaroo farm was not as painless as I had thought it would be thanks to the Manchester Police as well as the Tennessee State Highway Patrol keeping things organized outside of the farm. In fact we only were stuck in a traffic jam for about an hour an a half before making our way into the farm many would call home for the weekend.
My car was briefly searched by the kind folk at Bonnaroo to ensure that I did not have glass containers, illegal drugs, or weapons. Once the frisking of my vehicle was completed I was handed a Bonnaroo guide and two trash bags - one for trash, and the other recyclables. I was then pointed to the day lot.
We parked the car in the day lot, a sectioned off area that lies on the edge of the farm opposite of Centeroo, the main area where all of the shows occur. After packing up some items in backpacks and dousing myself with sunscreen we headed through the camping community for Centeroo.
Thanks to a late start on the day and the traffic jam, I sadly missed a few of the earlier performances such as Roger Allen Wade but was quick to take a tour around the grounds to refresh myself on where the stages were located.
We started off the festival at That Tent to check out Alberta Cross and indie rock band that reminded me of Band Of Horses mixed with My Morning Jacket. I enjoyed what I heard as did all of the other folk around me packed into the tent. After about three songs, we left to search for the Troo Music Stage.
Article comments
1 - El Bicho
I went last year and am jealous. have a great time
2 - Sneed
I saw the Knux and People Under the Stairs which both played on the same tent as MURS, it was awesome, both put on fantastic and entertaining shows. I hardly noticed the rain because I was near the front row and when the crowd hear thunder crack people would roar and cheer while continuing to party.