Defying the odds, Marilyn Manson arrived in San Luis Potosí for his concert at FENAPO.
Marilyn Manson Performs at FENAPO Amid Controversy
Marilyn Manson took the stage at the Feria Nacional Potosina (FENAPO) in San Luis Potosí on August 10, 2025, in a free concert that sparked significant controversy and protests.
The state governor, Ricardo Gallardo Cardona, confirmed that Manson's performance was still scheduled for August 10 at the Teatro del Pueblo. Despite rumors of a possible suspension, the event proceeded as planned, with access limited to a maximum capacity of 100,000 attendees.
Manson's inclusion in the FENAPO lineup has become one of the most discussed points of the current edition. The performance itself was part of the FENAPO's cultural events, showcasing a high level of public engagement despite divided opinions.
Historically, Marilyn Manson’s performances have often been met with controversy due to his provocative style and imagery, which can clash with conservative or religious groups. This FENAPO edition continued that pattern, igniting debates about cultural expression and community values in the region.
The state government defended the concert as part of a culturally inclusive offering. Various religious groups in San Luis Potosí carried out a campaign to prevent Manson's show from taking place, gathering more than 6,000 signatures and formally requesting the authorities to cancel the concert. However, the state administration emphasized the importance of respecting cultural diversity and indicated that the show would remain in the program.
Marilyn Manson was greeted by his work team and security personnel upon arrival at Ponciano Arriaga International Airport in San Luis Potosí. A video of his arrival was posted on Governor Ricardo Gallardo Cardona's social media, showing Manson dressed in his characteristic black attire as he walked with his entourage. The video received thousands of reactions and comments, ranging from excitement for the concert to mocking responses towards religious groups' attempts to prevent the concert.
Some reactions to the video were positive, expressing excitement for the concert. Governor Ricardo Gallardo Cardona wrote, "Guess who's already arrived in Potosí lands? Marilyn Manson! Who's ready to see him?" Attendees were asked to enter according to the organization's established logistics.
The religious groups' efforts, including a 40-day fasting by Catholic faithful, did not prevent the concert from taking place. The public reaction was mixed, with some celebrating the performance and others opposing it strongly. The concert was described as "the best party of the summer," showing a contrasting celebratory atmosphere parallel to the protests.
Both the state government and the fair organization maintained their commitment to pluralism and respect for artistic freedom. The state administration emphasized the importance of respecting cultural diversity and indicated that the show would remain in the program. Despite the controversy, Marilyn Manson's performance at FENAPO 2025 was a memorable event that added to the vibrant cultural scene of San Luis Potosí.
[1] State government defends Marilyn Manson's performance at FENAPO amid protests. (2025, August 11). Retrieved from https://www.slpotosi.gob.mx/noticias/state-government-defends-marilyn-mansons-performance-at-fenapo-amid-protests
[2] Marilyn Manson performs at FENAPO 2025. (2025, August 11). Retrieved from https://www.slpotosinews.com/marilyn-manson-performs-at-fenapo-2025/
[3] FENAPO 2025: Marilyn Manson's concert kicks off the festival with a bang. (2025, August 11). Retrieved from https://www.slpotosinews.com/fenapo-2025-marilyn-mansons-concert-kicks-off-the-festival-with-a-bang/
[4] Marilyn Manson's arrival at Ponciano Arriaga International Airport documented in video. (2025, August 10). Retrieved from https://www.slpotosinews.com/marilyn-mansons-arrival-at-ponciano-arriaga-international-airport-documented-in-video/
[1] Although the performance sparked significant controversy, the state government defended Marilyn Manson's concert at FENAPO as part of a culturally inclusive offering, emphasizing the importance of respecting cultural diversity and artistic freedom.
[2] Amidst the debates about cultural expression and community values, Marilyn Manson's performance at FENAPO was not just a music event, but also a significant moment in the entertainment sector, showcasing the vibrant cultural scene of San Luis Potosí.
