Tens of thousands of music enthusiasts gathered at Great Park in Irvine, California, for a groundbreaking event aimed at supporting women’s health, reproductive rights, and ending gender-based violence. The Daisy Chain Fields charity festival, organized by pop sensation Olivia Rodrigo, follows in the footsteps of the iconic Lilith Fair from the 1990s, featuring an all-female lineup.
The festival showcased a mix of established and emerging artists, including queer pop artist Chappell Roan and rapper Doechii, alongside legendary acts like Bikini Kill and Garbage. Before the festival kicked off, Rodrigo revealed that they had raised $10 million for the event’s non-profit partners, which was then matched by Melinda French Gates, totaling $20 million.
Rodrigo, who unveiled the festival in June, emphasized that all net proceeds would go to charities supporting women and girls. The event included special performances, such as Rodrigo collaborating with Stevie Nicks on “Landslide” and a surprise appearance by Alanis Morissette, who sang “Ironic” with Rodrigo, making a notable lyrical change that resonated with the audience.
The festival also featured a performance by Lilith Fair founder Sarah McLachlan, highlighting the progress made in promoting female artists in the music industry. Rodrigo expressed that the festival’s name, “Daisy Chain,” symbolizes unity and strength in coming together for a cause.
Amid ongoing challenges to reproductive rights in the U.S., the festival served as a platform to advocate for women’s rights. The event coincided with efforts by the Trump administration to reshape federal family planning programs, sparking legal disputes from multiple states.
Despite these challenges, Rodrigo and fellow artists and activists at Daisy Chain Fields remained hopeful, underscoring the importance of collective action in supporting women’s rights. The festival showcased 14 artists, art installations, and interactive exhibits, creating a vibrant and inclusive atmosphere for attendees.
Attendees praised the festival for its positive and empowering vibe, with many highlighting the sense of community and support for important causes. The event’s non-profit partners expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support, emphasizing the unity and strength demonstrated at the festival.
Daisy Chain Fields stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of advocacy and solidarity in advancing women’s rights and promoting social change.
