Tens of thousands of music enthusiasts flocked to Great Park in Irvine, California, this past weekend to enjoy live performances by their favorite artists. The event, known as Daisy Chain Fields, aimed to raise funds for women’s health, reproductive rights, and the fight against gender-based violence.
Organized by pop sensation Olivia Rodrigo, Daisy Chain Fields mirrored the pioneering Lilith Fair from the 1990s by featuring an all-female lineup. The festival showcased a mix of established and emerging stars, including Chappell Roan, Doechii, Bikini Kill, and Garbage.
Before kicking off on Saturday, Rodrigo revealed that the festival had generated $10 million in donations for its ten nonprofit partners, such as Planned Parenthood and the National Institute for Reproductive Health. Philanthropist Melinda French Gates matched this amount, bringing the total raised to $20 million.
Rodrigo, who announced the festival in June, emphasized that all artists performed for free, with proceeds directed to charities supporting women and girls. The event featured special appearances by music icons like Stevie Nicks, Alanis Morissette, and Sarah McLachlan.
Inspired by the unity symbolized by a daisy chain, Rodrigo explained the festival’s name as a representation of strength through collective effort. Against the backdrop of ongoing challenges to reproductive rights in the U.S., Daisy Chain Fields stood as a beacon of support and empowerment.
The festival, which boasted a lineup of 14 acts, captivated attendees with performances by Mitski, Santigold, The Breeders, and Eli. Beyond the music, guests enjoyed various art installations, including a LEGO mural and a display tracing the Riot Grrrl movement’s evolution.
Reflecting on the festival’s impact, attendees like Chase Martinez praised the inclusive and uplifting atmosphere. Martinez commended the Daisy Chain Reaction philanthropy village, where nonprofits engaged with visitors, fostering a sense of community and solidarity.
As Daisy Chain Fields drew to a close, the festival’s nonprofit partners expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support. Organizations such as FreeFrom and the Center for Reproductive Rights highlighted the event’s significance in promoting unity and advocacy for women’s rights.
In a statement shared on social media platforms, the Center for Reproductive Rights reaffirmed the resilience of their cause, emphasizing the strength of a united community in the face of challenges. Daisy Chain Fields left a lasting impact, demonstrating the unwavering commitment to advancing gender equality and women’s rights.