As a premier cultural event in the South, Bonnaroo offers rich attractions beyond a-list music. A wide selection of food vendors, trinket trading and other fan-initiated activities in the expansive campgrounds are only a portion of what festival-goers can experience.

Still, tackling Bonnaroo for the first time can seem like a tall order for those who don’t know the ins and outs of Great Stage Park.

This year, Bonnaroo returns June 11-15, with headliners including Skrillex, The Strokes and Noah Kahan. Get ready for everything on stage and in the campgrounds with this guide to the lingo, campgrounds and festival “kandi.” 

Lingo on The Farm

While being on Bonnaroo grounds, known as The Farm, fans can expect to hear some quirky language from other ‘Roovians, whether that be in the campgrounds or in the center of the grounds.

Picking up the language of Bonnaroo is a rite of passage for fans. A few phrases to know: 

• Bonnaroo: Creole slang meaning “having a good time.” The name is derived from New Orleans musician Dr. John’s 1974 phonograph album called “Desitively Bonnaroo.”
• Bonnaroovian: The name of a Bonnaroo attendee, also commonly referred to as a ‘Roovian.
• Centeroo: The performance headquarters and the core of Bonnaroo. Centeroo’s borders hold the stages and tents where the majority of the festival’s sets perform.
• Outeroo: The area north of Centeroo and holds the campgrounds or the temporary home for most attendees. In Outeroo, campers are able to relax in between sets or host their own activities and events.
• Totems are how fans communicate. ‘Roovians wave these tall, handmade elaborately decorated poles to help people easily spot their group in large crowds. Besides navigation, totems are a form of art expression and are a staple in the festival’s culture.
• Sprouts are small plant-like clips that fans often clip to their hair, hats or backpacks as a sign of positive energy. Receiving a sprout at the festival is known amongst fans as being “sprouted.” 

Zoe Kuhn

Quick tips and tricks

Following and sticking to some easy tips can make or break a first ‘Roo. A few things to consider when planning a trip to the Bonnaroo grounds in Manchester, Tennessee: 

• Be ready for traffic: While a few gas stations can be found near The Farm, be sure to fill up the tank before heading into Manchester traffic. Also, make sure to arrive outside of peak traffic times to avoid lines when entering the campgrounds. 
• Prepare for weather: Pack sun protection and waterproof gear for the heat and potential rainfall.
• Do not rely on digital navigation: Look for physical signage and traffic directors who can assist with directions.
• Stay hydrated: Bring a reusable water bottle to fill up frequently at hydration stations on the festival grounds.

Zoe Kuhn

Etiquette for first timers

The ‘Roo crowd stands out with its familial and close-knit reputation, but it can be easy for attendees to get swept up in the moment and forget how actions may impact someone else’s concert-going experience. Here are some important things to remember so everyone can enjoy their experience: 

• General admission is first come, first-serve: Be aware that pushing and shoving to get a spot at the front can be impolite and potentially harmful to others. 
• Be prepared for long lines: The Farm serves as a temporary home for thousands during the long weekend, so concession lines can be long. Be ready to order and pay by the time you reach the front of the line.
• Be respectful of other campers: Between Outeroo and Centeroo events, Bonanroo can be an all-night party. Still, respect neighboring campers at night by being quiet around sleeping festival-goers.
• “Radiate Positivity” on The Farm: The festival’s community prides itself on being a welcoming, inclusive and embracing found family. Make friends, be authentic, spread kindness and make memories.

Lauren Blake

4 food vendors Bonnaroovians hope return to The Farm in 2026

From festival favorites like pizza, tacos and barbecue to vegetarian, vegan and international cuisine – Bonnaroo’s food scene has become a part of the experience and atmosphere. From southern comfort food to creative specialty dishes, festival-goers can expect dozens of options to accommodate a variety of dietary preferences and budgets. 

While Bonnaroo has not released its 2026 food vendor lineup yet, here are some vendors that fans cheer for as recurring favorites, appeared on the 2025 vendor list, or consistently appear recommended by festival veterans.

• Spicy Pie – A legendary late-night pizza stop and arguably Bonnaroo’s most iconic food vendor, this pizza stand offers slices or a full pie. Past ‘Roovians have praised the jalapeno-pepperoni pizza online and talk year-round about craving a slice.

• Roti Rolls – A Bonnaroo favorite known for filling Indian flatbread wraps and massive portions. They take traditional Caribbean-style roti and stuff it with globally inspired, locally sourced southern fusion ingredients.

• Island Noodles – Stir-fried Hawaiian-style noodles and vegetables that have become a festival staple. The vendor’s best-known dish is stir-fry with 21 fresh vegetables (like broccoli, cabbage, and carrots) in an island-style sauce, with an option to add pulled chicken.

• Asian Sensation – Attendees frequently praise this stop for large portions and flavorful dishes of traditional Chinese chow mein. The vendor’s menu is broad, featuring standard Chinese-American fare such as teriyaki chicken bowls, General Tso’s chicken and ginger-soy dumplings, often served over rice or noodles.

Bailey Lowe

What is “kandi?”

Thousands of Bonnaroo attendees wear “kandi” – beaded bracelets in colorful customizations that represent a beloved tradition of American rave and music festival culture. 

Based on friendship bracelets made popular by the late 1990s and early 2000s, these tradable trinkets symbolize friendship and community. The bracelets evolved in recent years to symbolize peace, love, unity and respect (PLUR), rave culture values adopted by many at Bonnaroo. 

“Kandi” allows festival-goers to show their creativity and connect with others. While some attendees may purchase “kandi” online or in alternative clothing stores like Hot Topic, several create designs to wear.

Many Bonnaroo attendees trade “kandi.” Seen as a way to demonstrate PLUR, traders may greet each other with a peace sign, a finger-heart, hand holding and then trading “kandi” one by one. 

Lily Agee

Relax (or keep the party going) in Outeroo

Outeroo – the campground that lies to the north and east of Centeroo – serves as a campsite and fully programmed extension of the festival where performances and gatherings take place throughout the weekend. 

Outeroo comes organized in public hubs called “plazas.” Each plaza features information booths, medical tents and showers. The plazas include art installations, late-night parties and hangouts for campers. 

This year, Outeroo hosts a drag brunch performance on Sunday morning at House of Yes, a campground space named after the famed nightclub in Brooklyn, New York. Outeroo also hosts camps like SoberRoo, The Beyond and Camp Busyhead. Activities in Outeroo for the early-morning campers include yoga and the annual Roo Run 5K, which will be at 9 a.m. on Saturday. ‘Beyond the Music’ activities can be found on Bonnaroo’s website.

Canaan Chavis

Three ‘Roo activities to wind down or ramp up

Shotgunaroo

One of Bonnaroo’s most unique traditions happens before many attendees enter Centeroo for the first time. 

At Shotgunaroo, participants gather in the campgrounds to crack open a cold one under the Bonnaroo arch at 2 p.m. on opening day. The communal toast acts as an unofficial kick off the weekend; for many returning guests, it marks the true beginning of their weekend on The Farm.

When: June 11 at 2 p.m.
Where: The Bonnaroo arch

‘Roo Run

For those looking to stay active, the annual ‘Roo Run offers a chance to experience the festival from a different perspective. 

Runners and walkers take on the 5,000-meter route, which loops through portions of the Bonnaroo campgrounds. Attendees arrive sporting costumes and festival flair, making the event feel as much like a celebration as a race. 

The event also supports charitable causes connected to the Bonnaroo community, such as the Bonnaroo Works Fund, blending fitness with the festival’s spirit of giving back. Athletic shoes are suggested, but speed is optional.

When: June 13 at 9 a.m. 

Silent Disco

When the main stages wind down, Silent Disco keeps the energy high. Participants wear wireless headphones and choose between multiple music channels, creating a dance floor where everyone may be listening to something different. 

From outside the headphones, the scene appears surprisingly quiet, but inside, hundreds of festivalgoers are singing and dancing together. The late-night attraction has become a Bonnaroo staple, offering a unique alternative to traditional concerts and showcasing the festival’s playful spirit.

When: Time varies day-to-day. See Bonnaroo’s official Outeroo schedule for specifics.
Where: Plaza 9
Theme: “Decompress by day and double down by night.”

Jesse Jones

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