Festival season is back in full swing, with Coachella 2024 kicking off this weekend. As fans, celebs, and influencers flock to the desert, anticipate your social feeds being filled with Ferris wheel photos, selfies on film, and some very interesting festival fashion.
Those heading to California for the event this year don't have to worry about FOMO, but there are plenty of other things to still keep in mind. Whether it's your first time or you're a veteran like myself, let this be your official checklist and guide for all things Coachella.
Ahead, everything you need to know about Coachella 2024, from the music and the food to, of course, the parties. See you in the desert!
When is Coachella 2024?
Coachella takes place over two weekends, with weekend one kicking off this Friday, April 12. Weekend two starts on Friday, April 19. The festival runs from Friday to Sunday throughout both weekends, and fans can expect the gates to officially open at 11 a.m. each day. The music stops just after midnight so you can (literally) dance the day away.
Where is Coachella 2024?
Contrary to popular belief, Coachella doesn't actually take place in Coachella, California. The festival is held in a small neighboring town called Indio, and the official venue is the Empire Polo Club (where Stagecoach also takes place).
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How much are tickets for Coachella 2024?
Tiers determine ticket prices—and the earlier you buy, the better. Tier 1 pass prices for general admission start at $499 before fees, tier 2 at $549, and tier 3 at $599. VIP tickets to Coachella are also an option, starting at $1,069. While weekend one is sold out to the public, American Express cardholders have special access to both GA and VIP tickets. If you're wondering what the difference is, VIP tickets allow fans into designated areas, including secured viewing sections near each stage, access to VIP food vendors and bars, and air-conditioned restrooms. Bottom line: Either wristband is pricey, but you're paying for the ~experience~ at the end of the day.
Who is performing at Coachella 2024?
This year's headliners include Tyler the Creator, Doja Cat, and Lana Del Rey, who is making her much-anticipated return to the Coachella stage. No Doubt is also performing a special set during both weekends, and Vampire Weekend was announced as a surprise this week and will play 5 p.m. on Saturday. Other big names include Reneé Rapp, Peso Pluma, Victoria Monet, J Balvin, Sabrina Carpenter, and many more. (Even Suki Waterhouse will make her debut.) For official set times be sure to download the Coachella app.
Where should one stay to attend Coachella 2024?
There are plenty of options for your Coachella lodging, depending on the vibe that you're going for. If you want to camp on the festival grounds and be there nonstop, you're more than welcome to do so, but it'll cost you an extra $149 (before taxes and fees) per vehicle or tent. Glamping is also an option at the Safari Campgrounds, where you can book a safari tent or cabana starting at a whopping $9,000. This year you can also step it up a notch by securing a yurt or residence at The Resort at Coachella, which includes bedding and towels, climate-controlled air conditioning, a seated dining area, mini-fridge, and in-wall power outlets. You'll even have a covered and furnished porch, and a daily maid and turndown service (price available upon request).
Lake Eldorado is also still an option, and you can book a tent or lodge starting at $3,198 for two people. Those who aren't into the whole camping thing have plenty of hotels to choose from in the surrounding areas, including popular options like the Ace Hotel and Swim Club and The Saguaro in Palm Springs. Airbnbs, timeshares, and vacation rental homes are also available, with the most convenient locations being Indio, Palm Desert, La Quinta, and Palm Springs. Just note: The closer you are to the festival grounds, the more it will cost you.
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What’s the best way to get to Coachella?
Your options also aren't limited when it comes to getting to and from the festival. You can drive and leave your car in one of Coachella's day parking lots, which is included for free with general admission or VIP wristbands. Preferred parking can be purchased separately for $249 per vehicle, which allows you to park closer to the festival entrance. Uber and Lyft are also available and have dedicated drop-off/pickup areas throughout the weekend. Still, with the current fuel surge prices, there's no telling how much a ride will cost you. The most convenient way to get to and from Coachella is by purchasing an Any Time Any Line shuttle pass, where passengers can get picked up near popular hotels or landmarks in surrounding areas. Shuttle passes cost $140 and are good throughout the entire weekend.
What is there to eat and drink at Coachella?
Now, onto the extra-important stuff: the food! Coachella's food scene is almost as exciting as the actual lineup. This year festivalgoers will enjoy some LA-based favorites like Ronan, Alfalfa, Bang Bang Noodles, and Burger She Wrote. NYC favorite Prince St. Pizza will be on the premises, and ice cream hotspot Afters is back again to satisfy your sweet tooth. Guests can purchase standard drinks from alcohol tents or Aperol Spritz's “cool-down areas” throughout the grounds, and Coachella's official hydration partner, Electrolit, will be available. This year Coachella's nonalcoholic retail activation, The New Bar, is back for those seeking booze-free fun.
