Everything You Must Know Before Visiting Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival

Are you planning to attend the iconic Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival 2026? Here’s everything you must know before heading to one of the biggest festivals in the USA.

This annual music festival is held each spring over two weekends in Indio, Greater Palm Springs. The festival in 2026 will be between April 10 and 12 & April 17 and 19, at the stunning Empire Polo Club (81-800 51st Ave, Indio, CA 92201).

Since its inception in October 1999 as a two-day festival, Coachella has evolved into a cultural phenomenon, drawing massive crowds for unforgettable performances. Following the buzz of Coachella 2025, headlined by Lady Gaga, Green Day, and Post Malone, the 2026 lineup announced in mid-September features Justin Bieber, Karol G, and Sabrina Carpenter.

What is Coachella, and why is it famous?

Coachella is an annual music festival held in the spring that has grown into a global cultural event. Known as a major music and arts festival held in California, USA, it takes place at the Empire Polo Club in Indio and attracts fans from around the world. What makes Coachella famous is its unique blend of music, art, and fashion, alongside unforgettable performances from the biggest names in the industry.

Since its early beginnings, the festival has evolved into an annual music festival held over two weekends in Indio, offering attendees the chance to enjoy diverse genres, immersive art installations, and iconic desert vibes. Coachella is more than just live music; it’s a trendsetting experience that influences pop culture, making it one of the most recognised and celebrated festivals worldwide.

Where is Coachella 2026 going to be?

Coachella 2026 will be held at the Empire Polo Club in Indio, California, USA, specifically at 81-800 Avenue 51 in the Coachella Valley near Greater Palm Springs. The festival spans two weekends, April 10-12 and April 17-19, 2026, on the same grounds that have become synonymous with this iconic desert music and arts event.

Coachella LineUp 2026 (Weekend 1 and 2)

The Coachella 2026 lineup is a dynamic blend of genres, featuring a mix of global superstars and emerging talents. Headlining the festival are Sabrina Carpenter, Justin Bieber, Karol G, and Anyma. Notably, Karol G makes history as the first Latina to headline Coachella. Other standout performances include The Strokes, the xx, Nine Inch Noize (a collaboration between Nine Inch Nails and Boys Noize), Addison Rae, Young Thug, FKA twigs, and Ethel Cain.

The festival spans two weekends: April 10-12 and April 17-19, 2026, at the Empire Polo Club in Indio, California. This diverse lineup promises an unforgettable experience for attendees.

How much does it cost to attend Coachella?

Attending Coachella comes with a range of ticket options to suit different budgets. The standard three-day general admission pass costs around £400 to £450, giving access to all performances and art installations. For those seeking additional benefits, the VIP pass is priced at approximately £850 to £900, offering exclusive viewing areas, expedited entry, and access to premium amenities.

In addition to ticket prices, festivalgoers should also consider the costs of camping passes (approximately £100 to £150), food, drinks, transportation, and accommodations if not staying on-site. Altogether, attending Coachella can cost anywhere from £600 to over £1,500, depending on preferences and lifestyle choices during the weekend.

How to get to Coachella?

Here are a few ways that you can pick from to reach the venue:

1. Drive directly to the Empire Polo Club in Indio, California (81‑800 Avenue 51). Parking passes are available, but book early. Expect heavy traffic on festival days.
2. Purchase official Coachella shuttle passes from hotels or nearby cities. Shuttles drop you off directly at the festival entrance.
3. The nearest airport is Palm Springs International Airport (PSP), about 30 minutes away. Other options include Los Angeles (LAX) and San Diego (SAN), with longer drives.
4. Uber and Lyft have designated drop-off/pick-up zones at the festival.
5. For those staying nearby, biking or walking avoids traffic and parking issues.
   
   

Activities and Experiences at Coachella

Let’s take a look at some activities you can enjoy while in and around the venue:

What to Pack for the Coachella Festival?

Here is what you need to pack for the festival:

1. Pack lightweight, breathable clothing for hot daytime temperatures.
2. Bring a hat and sunglasses to protect from the sun.
3. Carry a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.
4. Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking and standing all day.
5. Include sunscreen and lip balm with SPF.
6. Bring a small backpack or fanny pack for essentials.
7. Pack light layers for cooler desert evenings.
8. Carry a portable phone charger and necessary cables.
9. Include hand sanitiser and wet wipes.
   
   

Tips for First-Timers

Everything that first-timers should know is already mentioned above; a few missed points are here:

1. Beat crowds and catch your favourite sets at the front by arriving early.
2. Take breaks, enjoy art installations, and soak in the experience without rushing.
3. Sunscreen, portable charger, snacks, and ID are crucial, so keep them accessible.
4. You can use the Coachella app to plan things according to the schedule.
5. Keep a face mask and goggles to protect yourself from dust and heat.
   
   

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Conclusion

Coachella is more than a music festival; it’s a full cultural experience filled with iconic performances, art, food, and community. With proper planning, first-timers can fully enjoy this legendary California event and create unforgettable memories.