Olivia Rodrigo’s debut festival, Daisy Chain Fields, garnered acclaim for its exclusively female lineup and charitable dedication to reproductive rights and combating gender-based violence. While several vendors shared positive feedback, the event faced criticism this week from two vendors who claimed to have experienced unfavorable working conditions and delayed payments.
Both vendors have confirmed that they have now received full payment. Mary Chacon, the owner of Ugly Oats Kitchen, one of the vendors, mentioned in an Instagram update on Wednesday that two executives from Daisy Chain Fields reached out to address their concerns in a kind and apologetic manner.
The one-day festival attracted a large audience to Great Park in Irvine, California, to witness performances by artists such as Chappell Roan, Doechii, Mitski, Bikini Kill, and Olivia Rodrigo herself. All performers volunteered their time, and the proceeds from the festival were donated to 10 organizations supporting women’s rights, including Planned Parenthood and the National Institute for Reproductive Health.
Initially raising $10 million, the festival’s contributions were doubled to $20 million by Melinda French Gates. Over 50 food and drink vendors participated in the event, with many expressing their satisfaction with the experience post-event.
Bubble tea vendor Buo Buo described their participation as a “FEMININOMENAL experience,” referencing a Chappell Roan song, while Mano Po, specializing in Filipino cuisine, expressed that being part of the inaugural event felt particularly special.
However, two vendors disclosed on Tuesday that their experience at the festival was not without challenges. Mary Chacon detailed in an Instagram post that they received inadequate information from the festival’s point of contact, DLS Events, and were still awaiting payment.
Chacon later confirmed that payment had been received and praised the efforts of Daisy Chain Fields executives in advocating for vendors’ interests. The festival organizers are reportedly looking to make improvements for vendors in the future.
Notably, another vendor, Por Suerte, also reported payment issues initially but later acknowledged receiving payment and praised the responsiveness of the Daisy Chain Fields team to their feedback.
Despite facing concerns over a heat wave and traffic congestion, the festival has been hailed as a success. City officials have expressed readiness to host the event again next year. Olivia Rodrigo, an advocate for reproductive rights, has been actively involved in charitable initiatives supporting women-focused causes.
In a social media post following the festival, Rodrigo described it as a career highlight, emphasizing the collective sense of hope and care exhibited at the event.
Rodrigo has not publicly commented on the vendor payment issues. Daisy Chain Fields stands out as the first music festival dedicated to women’s and reproductive rights, distinguishing itself in a landscape of charity-focused music events.