What you need to know before heading to Indio
We're less than a week away from the annual Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival at the Empire Polo Club in Indio.
The three-day weekend fest, set for Friday-April 14 and April 19-21, boasts a star-studded lineup with headliners Lana Del Rey, Tyler, the Creator, and Doja Cat. Just moments after teasing fans with a sneak peek of a potential reunion on Instagram, it was also revealed that the Anaheim rock group No Doubt would be joining the lineup. Other performers include J Balvin, Blur, Ice Spice, Peso Pluma, Lil Uzi Vert, Justice, Sublime, Jungle, Bleachers and dozens more.
As fans now pack their bags for the desert, here's what you need to know before embarking on the Coachella experience.
Bag policy
In 2022, a revised bag policy was introduced, allowing guests to bring medium-sized backpacks (not exceeding 18 inches by 13 inches by 8.5 inches) in addition to fanny packs, purses, and handbags. Bags were checked by placing their belongings into a box of similar dimensions to ensure compliance.
For added convenience, locker rentals will be available on-site for attendees to secure their belongings. Medium lockers, equipped with a combination lock, are priced at $79; large lockers with a combination lock are $89; and extra-large lockers with a combination lock are $99. Prices include all three days and can be purchased at coachella.com/lockers
New stages
The Quasar stage is the newest addition to the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival lineup. This addition promises three-hour extended sets over both weekends, showcasing an array of electronic music artists and DJs. While specifics regarding its location and set times remain undisclosed, anticipation is high among festival-goers.
Weekend one will feature Honey Dijon, Green Velvet, Michael Bibi, Jamie XX, Floating Points and Daphni. Weekend two will have RÜFÜS DU SOL (DJ Set), Eric Prydz, Anyma, Diplo and Mau P.
In February, Los Angeles promoter Goldenvoice announced the expansion and relocation of the iconic Sahara Tent. The new setup, constructed primarily of steel, unlike its aluminum predecessor, spans an impressive 320 feet in length. Positioned between Avenue 51 and Polo Road, south of its previous location and closer to the Blue Path parking area, the revamped Sahara Tent has increased its capacity and enhanced stage production capabilities for artists.
Parking rules
In January, promoters initially introduced a requirement mandating a minimum of four occupants per vehicle, including the driver. However, following a wave of fan outcry regarding the new regulations, there has been a recent revision, and the requirement has been lifted. Despite this change, Coachella continues to advocate for attendees to carpool, promoting sustainable transportation options. Individuals traveling in vehicles with four or more occupants remain eligible to win VIP passes for life, underscoring the festival's dedication to fostering environmentally friendly travel alternatives.
Parking lots will be open from 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. all three days. Everyone in a vehicle must be wearing a festival wristband. Once lots are full, attendees will be directed to a nearby, off-site location. Pick-ups and drop-offs in Day Parking areas are prohibited; select locations will be designated for these purposes. Additionally, motorcycles will have parking privileges in the ADA lot.
Preferred parking passes also will be available, starting at $249, for entry through the north entrance off Ave. 49 and Monroe Street.
Live streams for staying home
For those who prefer to experience Coachella from the comfort of their own homes, YouTube has extended its exclusive live stream and content partnership for the festival through 2026. This means that even if you're opting for “Couchella” this year, you won't miss out on any of the action. Tune in to live streams throughout all three days of the festival, soaking in the sights and sounds of each weekend's performances.
YouTube.com/Coachella will be your go-to destination for live-streaming all six of the festival stages. The streams also will include exclusive merchandise drops, on-the-ground content featuring artists, live chat options for fans and a series of insightful artist interviews between sets.
WHEN » 11 a.m. — 1 a.m. Friday-April 14 and April 19-21
WHERE » Empire Polo Club, 81-800 Avenue 51, Indio
TICKETS » Weekend one is sold out; weekend two passes are still available with general admission three-day passes starting at $499; three-day general admission plus shuttle starts at $619; three-day VIP passes starting at $1,269 at coachella.com/passes