First-Timer Guide
Bonnaroo First-Timer Guide: Camping, Packing and the Electronic Stages
First Bonnaroo? How camping on the Farm works, a rain-ready packing list, and where the electronic acts play.
By SET125 Editorial Team. Last updated October 19, 2026.
Bonnaroo is a four-day camping festival on a 700-acre farm in Manchester, Tennessee, about 60 miles southeast of Nashville, with music going late and some sunrise sets. Next year's dates, ticket prices and the official packing rules are TBA, so check bonnaroo.com before you buy or pack anything.
How the Farm is laid out
You camp in Outeroo, and the stages are in Centeroo. The main stage is the What Stage. Electronic fans should head to The Other stage, which hosts most of the DJ and bass bookings.
Plan for rain
Weather has decided recent editions. In 2025 storms ended the festival after Thursday, and in 2026 a Sunday downpour evacuated Centeroo and cancelled several sets. Pack as if mud is guaranteed.
Packing list
- Waterproof tent with a rainfly and extra stakes. Recent editions were decided by storms.
- Rain boots and a poncho. Pack as if mud is guaranteed.
- Canopy or shade structure, if official rules allow.
- Refillable bottle or hydration pack, if allowed.
- Power bank. Your phone is your map and your weather alerts.
- Earplugs for the electronic stages.
- Headlamp and spare batteries.
- Sunscreen, a hat and dry bags for your phone and wallet.
Check the official prohibited-items list on bonnaroo.com before you pack. Rules can change every year.
Electronic acts to know
The 2026 bill gave electronic music a headline slot: Skrillex closed Thursday and RÜFÜS DU SOL closed Saturday, with Four Tet, GRiZ, Major Lazer, Chase & Status, Sara Landry, Sub Focus, Gorgon City, Boys Noize and San Holo also booked. See the Bonnaroo archive for every year.
FAQ
When is the next Bonnaroo?
Dates are TBA. Check bonnaroo.com.
Which Bonnaroo stage plays electronic music?
The Other stage is Bonnaroo's main electronic stage.