Tennessee – The annual Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival returns to Manchester from June 12 to June 15, 2025, drawing an expected crowd of more than 65,000 attendees to a sprawling 700-acre farm in Middle Tennessee. Since its inception in 2002, Bonnaroo has become one of the nation’s premier live music events, featuring a wide range of performers and attracting visitors from across the country.

As traffic volumes in and around Manchester increase significantly during the festival, the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) is taking extensive measures to manage the influx and maintain smooth travel on Interstate 24 (I-24).

TDOT is collaborating closely with the Tennessee Highway Patrol (THP), Manchester Police Department, Manchester Fire and Rescue, Coffee County Sheriff’s Department, Coffee County Emergency Management Agency, and festival promoters to ensure both through traffic and festivalgoers experience minimal delays.

“TDOT has once again coordinated with our agency partners to ensure safe and efficient travel during the Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival,” said Deputy Governor and TDOT Commissioner Butch Eley. “The main objective is to keep thru traffic moving smoothly on I-24 while getting festivalgoers safely into and out of the Bonnaroo site. Because of this advance planning, we can successfully minimize traffic delays throughout the weekend.”

Key components of TDOT’s traffic management strategy include:

  • Concentrating efforts on keeping traffic flowing smoothly on I-24.

  • Deploying TDOT HELP units to patrol the interstate and state routes, assisting motorists as needed.

  • Designating Exit 111 (SR-55) as the primary festival exit, with alternate exits available if congestion arises.

  • Stationing TDOT maintenance crews throughout the festival region, with personnel on call throughout the weekend.

  • Installing variable message signs to alert drivers of potential delays.

  • Suspending construction-related lane closures on I-24 near the festival from June 10 through June 17.

  • Guarding median crossovers to prevent illegal parking and ensure emergency vehicle access.

  • Directing festival traffic to the right lane and shoulders on the interstate to keep left lanes open for through traffic.

  • Utilizing county roads with low traffic volumes for emergency vehicle routes.

  • Setting up temporary communication towers to enhance emergency response communications.

Drivers requiring assistance while traveling in Tennessee can dial *THP (*847) from their cell phones to reach the nearest Tennessee Highway Patrol dispatch office, ensuring prompt help from a state trooper.

With these preparations, TDOT and its partners aim to provide a safe and efficient travel experience for all during the Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival weekend.