Morrissey Bans Meat at CityFolk Festival With Unique Request

English pop icon Morrissey is making headlines with a unique request for his upcoming performance at the CityFolk festival in Ottawa on September 12, 2023. As a passionate advocate for animal rights, he has requested that concertgoers refrain from bringing meat products to the venue, reflecting his stance against animal cruelty.

Festival director Mark Monahan confirmed that Morrissey’s request includes a ban on meat from the food vendors’ menus for the day. Attendees will also undergo bag checks at the entrance to ensure compliance, alongside standard searches for prohibited items like alcohol and weapons. This initiative highlights Morrissey’s long-standing commitment to animal welfare, which previously led him to seek similar bans during past tours, including a notable incident at Coachella in 2009.

The CityFolk festival, which celebrates its roots as the Ottawa Folk Festival, marks a significant milestone this year as it approaches its 10th anniversary at Lansdowne Park. The event showcases a diverse lineup, featuring British artists such as Morrissey, indie-pop band James, and Celtic-punk legends The Pogues.

This year’s festival is set to offer several vegetarian options, catering to Morrissey’s ethos. The festival will take place on the Great Lawn, a spacious outdoor site behind TD Place stadium, providing a vibrant atmosphere for music lovers.

Tickets are available in various formats: a full-festival pass priced at $211.14, single-day passes ranging from $60 to $75, and a pick-three pass around $200. While guaranteed seating is not offered, attendees can bring collapsible lawn chairs or blankets to enjoy the performances comfortably.

For those planning to attend, biking remains a convenient option, with 600 bicycle parking spaces available at Lansdowne Park. Public transportation is also accessible, with free rides on OC Transpo to and from the festival for ticket holders within three hours before and after the event.

CityFolk is a rain-or-shine event, and festival organizers are prepared for inclement weather. Attendees can bring small, collapsible umbrellas or rain ponchos. Any delays due to weather will be communicated via the festival’s social media channels.

The festival features an eclectic lineup that showcases a blend of genres. From pop sensations like Alex Warren to electro-rockers Down With Webster, the programming reflects a commitment to both established and emerging artists. The festival’s history includes a significant revival after it faced financial challenges in 2010, when Monahan and his team helped reinvigorate the event.

As CityFolk gears up for another exciting year, attendees can expect a memorable experience that combines great music and a unique atmosphere, all while supporting Morrissey’s advocacy for animal rights.