Olivia Rodrigo’s debut festival, Daisy Chain Fields, received acclaim for its lineup exclusively featuring women artists and its dedication to supporting reproductive rights and combating gender-based violence. While several vendors expressed positive feedback, the event faced criticism this week from two vendors who claimed they faced unfavorable working conditions and delayed payments.
Following discussions with festival executives, one of the vendors, Mary Chacon of Ugly Oats Kitchen, acknowledged that they had been fully compensated. The one-day festival attracted a large crowd to Great Park in Irvine, California, to enjoy performances by artists such as Chappell Roan, Doechii, Mitski, Bikini Kill, and Olivia Rodrigo herself.
All performers volunteered their time, and the festival proceeds were directed to 10 organizations championing women’s rights, including Planned Parenthood, National Women’s Law Center, Black Mamas Matter, and the National Institute for Reproductive Health. Initially raising $10 million, the festival’s total donation amount was doubled to $20 million through a matching contribution from Melinda French Gates.
Over 50 food and beverage vendors participated in the festival, with many expressing satisfaction with their involvement. Bubble tea vendor Buo Buo described the experience as “FEMININOMENAL,” a nod to a Chappell Roan song, while Mano Po, specializing in Filipino cuisine, felt honored to be part of the inaugural event.
Despite the positive feedback, two vendors raised concerns about their festival experience. Chacon detailed issues such as inadequate communication and delayed payments in a social media post. However, after receiving payment and experiencing support from Daisy Chain Fields executives, she acknowledged improvements for future vendor experiences.
Another vendor, Por Suerte, also reported payment delays but later confirmed receipt of payment and praised the organizers for their responsiveness to feedback. Although Rodrigo has not addressed the vendors’ concerns publicly, the festival’s focus on women’s and reproductive rights has received widespread support.
Daisy Chain Fields marks a unique approach among charity music festivals by emphasizing women’s and reproductive rights causes. Despite challenges like a heatwave and heavy traffic, the event has been deemed a success, with plans already in motion to host it again next year. Rodrigo’s advocacy for reproductive rights has been evident in her actions, including partnering with women-focused charities during her tours and supporting related causes.
In the aftermath of the festival, Rodrigo expressed gratitude on social media, describing it as a significant milestone in her career and a symbol of collective hope for a better future.