Coachella

Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival, commonly known as Coachella, is one of the most renowned music festivals in the world. Held annually at the Empire Polo Club in Indio, California, it has grown from a niche gathering to a global cultural phenomenon. The festival was founded in 1999 by Paul Tollett and Rick Van Santen of Goldenvoice, inspired in part by a 1993 Pearl Jam concert at the same venue. That show proved the site’s potential for hosting large-scale events outside the grip of major ticketing companies, paving the way for what would become one of the most influential festivals in modern music history.

Coachella’s first edition in 1999 featured an eclectic lineup including Beck, The Chemical Brothers, and Rage Against the Machine. Despite critical success, it struggled financially and took a year off before returning in 2001. Over the next few years, the festival gradually built its reputation, expanding its duration, scale, and audience. By the mid-2000s, it had become a must-attend event, attracting headliners such as Red Hot Chili Peppers, Daft Punk, and Radiohead. Its continued success led to its expansion to three days in 2007 and later to two consecutive weekends in 2012, offering identical lineups to accommodate growing demand.

The festival’s appeal lies not only in its diverse musical programming, which spans rock, pop, indie, hip-hop, and electronic music, but also in its dedication to visual art and immersive experiences. Large-scale art installations and sculptures are a signature part of the event, creating a surreal atmosphere that enhances the festival experience. Over the years, Coachella has hosted some of the biggest names in music, with iconic performances from Beyoncé, who delivered a historic headlining set celebrating Black culture, Paul McCartney, Lady Gaga, Kendrick Lamar, and Swedish House Mafia, among many others. The festival is also known for surprise guest appearances and once-in-a-lifetime collaborations that make headlines worldwide.

Coachella has built a reputation as one of the premier destinations for electronic music, with several stages dedicated to showcasing a wide range of sounds, from festival anthems to underground beats. The Sahara Tent is the biggest and most recognizable space for electronic music at the festival, featuring massive LED screens, immersive lighting, and world-class DJs delivering high-energy sets. Over the years, Sahara has expanded to accommodate growing crowds. For those who prefer a more intimate, underground club feel, head to the Yuma Tent. Known for its sleek, low-lit atmosphere, Yuma offers a more curated experience, with deep house, techno, and minimal sounds taking center stage.

Beyond these two powerhouses, electronic music is spread across other key stages. The Mojave and Gobi Tents frequently feature electronic acts, blending them with live performers and crossover artists pushing the boundaries of genre. The Quasar Stage was introduced in 2024 as an outdoor venue specifically designed for extended DJ sets, allowing artists to create deeper, more immersive sonic journeys. Then there’s the Do LaB, one of the most unique and beloved spaces at Coachella. Run by the creative Do LaB collective, this stage is famous for its interactive art installations, spontaneous surprise sets, and a lineup that includes house, bass, techno, and experimental sounds. Unlike the festival’s bigger stages, Do LaB thrives on spontaneity, often bringing out secret guests and creating an atmosphere that feels more like a community gathering than a traditional festival set. With these diverse electronic spaces, Coachella continues to be a mecca for dance music fans, offering something for every taste, from the biggest EDM acts to the deepest underground selectors.

Beyond music and art, Coachella has become a major cultural and fashion trendsetter. The festival is synonymous with bohemian-inspired outfits, influencing festival fashion trends globally. Brands have capitalized on this, launching exclusive collections inspired by the festival’s signature aesthetic. It has also played a significant role in the rise of influencer culture, with celebrities, social media personalities, and brands using the festival as a platform to showcase their style and presence.

As one of the most profitable music festivals in the world, Coachella significantly impacts the local economy, generating substantial revenue for the Coachella Valley region through ticket sales, tourism, and local business patronage. At the same time, the festival has taken steps toward sustainability, implementing recycling programs, promoting carpooling, and encouraging responsible environmental practices among attendees.

Coachella returns each year stronger and continues to push creative boundaries. Its ability to adapt to industry trends while maintaining its reputation as a premier music and arts festival ensures that it remains at the forefront of global festival culture. Today, Coachella is a cultural institution that shapes music, fashion, and art while offering an experience that extends far beyond the music itself.