Olivia Rodrigo’s debut festival, Daisy Chain Fields, received acclaim for its lineup featuring all female artists and its focus on supporting reproductive rights and combating gender-based violence. However, while some vendors had positive experiences, the festival is facing criticism from two vendors who claim they faced unfavorable working conditions and have not been paid yet.
The one-day festival drew large crowds to Great Park in Irvine, California, where fans gathered to watch performances by artists such as Chappell Roan, Doechii, Mitski, Bikini Kill, and Olivia Rodrigo herself. All the performers volunteered their time, and the proceeds from the event were directed towards 10 organizations advocating for women’s rights, including Planned Parenthood, National Women’s Law Center, Black Mamas Matter, and the National Institute for Reproductive Health.
Initially, the festival raised $10 million USD, which was later matched by Melinda French Gates, bringing the total to $20 million USD. Over 50 food and drink vendors participated in the event, with many sharing positive feedback about their experiences in the days following the festival.
One vendor, Mary Chacon of Ugly Oats Kitchen, took to Instagram to express her disappointment in not receiving proper payment from the festival and detailed issues with the event organizers. Another vendor, Por Suerte, also reported facing challenges with communication and delayed payment from the organizers.
While Por Suerte has mentioned that they are in contact with the organizers and expect to receive payment soon, Olivia Rodrigo has not publicly responded to the vendor complaints.
Despite concerns such as a heat wave and traffic congestion due to the large turnout, the event was deemed a success, with city officials expressing their willingness to host the festival again next year.
Olivia Rodrigo has been a vocal advocate for reproductive rights, criticizing abortion bans as “pro-control” rather than “pro-life.” During her recent GUTS tour and ongoing Unraveled tour, she has supported women-focused charities and donated a portion of her ticket sales towards these causes.
In a social media post following the festival, Rodrigo described it as a career highlight and a symbol of collective hope for a better future, emphasizing the importance of caring for others.