Olivia Rodrigo’s debut festival, Daisy Chain Fields, received acclaim for its lineup featuring all female artists and its commitment to supporting reproductive rights and combating gender-based violence. However, the event is facing criticism from two vendors who claim they faced unfavorable working conditions and have not been adequately compensated for their services.
The one-day festival drew large crowds to Great Park in Irvine, California, to enjoy performances by artists like Chappell Roan, Doechii, Mitski, Bikini Kill, and Rodrigo herself. All performers volunteered their time, and the proceeds from the festival were donated to 10 organizations focusing on women’s rights, such as Planned Parenthood, National Women’s Law Center, Black Mamas Matter, and the National Institute for Reproductive Health.
Initially raising $10 million, the festival’s funds were later doubled to $20 million through a matching donation from Melinda French Gates. Despite the successful fundraising, two vendors have come forward more than a month after the event to express dissatisfaction with their experiences.
Mary Chacon, the owner of Ugly Oats Kitchen, penned an open letter addressed to Olivia Rodrigo on Instagram, alleging non-payment for their sales as stipulated in their contract. Chacon highlighted issues with the subcontractor, DLS Events, noting inadequate information on setup and a distant staff food area that vendors struggled to access.
Furthermore, Por Suerte, a custom fortune cookie company run by Veronica Licha Lopez, echoed similar grievances on social media, citing poor communication and financial losses incurred from participation in the festival.
Requests for comments have been made to Rodrigo’s team, C3 Presents (the event producer), and the two vendor management companies mentioned by Chacon: DLS Events and Jetty Event Productions.
The festival’s emphasis on women’s and reproductive rights has distinguished it from other music events with charitable causes. Despite logistical challenges during the festival, local authorities have expressed support for hosting the event again next year.
Olivia Rodrigo, an advocate for reproductive rights, has actively supported women-focused causes through her music career. While she has not responded to the recent criticisms, she has previously used her platform to champion important social issues.