Olivia Rodrigo’s debut festival, Daisy Chain Fields, has garnered acclaim for its lineup exclusively featuring women artists and its commitment to supporting reproductive rights and combating gender-based violence.
While some vendors have shared positive feedback about their participation, the festival is facing criticism from two vendors who claim they faced unfavorable working conditions and have yet to receive payment.
The one-day event attracted a large crowd of fans to Great Park in Irvine, California, to enjoy performances by artists such as Chappell Roan, Doechii, Mitski, Bikini Kill, and Olivia Rodrigo herself.
All the performers generously donated their time, and the festival’s proceeds were directed towards supporting ten organizations focused on 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 USD, the festival received a matching contribution from Melinda French Gates, doubling the total amount to $20 million USD.
Over 50 food and beverage vendors participated in the festival, with many expressing their satisfaction with the event in the days following.
For instance, bubble tea stall Buo Buo described their experience as “a FEMININOMENAL experience,” referencing a Chappell Roan song, while Mano Po, specializing in Filipino cuisine, felt honored to be part of the inaugural event.
However, two vendors, including Mary Chacon of Ugly Oats Kitchen, have raised concerns about their experience at the festival. Chacon shared on Instagram that she had not received proper payment and detailed challenges such as limited information from the festival’s organizers and the threat of fines.
CBC News has reached out for comments from Olivia Rodrigo’s team, C3 Presents, the event production company, and the vendor management companies, DLS Events, and Jetty Event Productions, mentioned by Chacon.
Another vendor, Por Suerte, echoed similar issues with poor communication and delayed payment but later confirmed they are in touch with the organizers and expect to receive payment soon.
Despite these challenges, Olivia Rodrigo has not addressed the criticisms publicly.
Daisy Chain Fields stands out as the first charity music festival with a primary focus on women’s and reproductive rights, distinguishing itself from previous events that supported various causes.
Despite facing logistical challenges such as a heatwave and traffic congestion, the event has been regarded as a success, with city officials expressing their support to host the festival again next year.
Olivia Rodrigo has been a vocal advocate for reproductive rights, denouncing abortion bans as “pro-control” rather than “pro-life.” She has actively supported women-focused charities and continues to champion these causes during her ongoing Unraveled tour.
Reflecting on the festival, Rodrigo shared on social media that it was a career highlight, emphasizing the collective sense of hope and care for others that the event symbolized.