In the hot desert heat, a cultural phenomenon called Coachella happens annually every April when artists and influencers get to express themselves through the world of music. Held in Indio, California, Coachella started in 1999 as just a two-day rock music festival. The first festival was unsuccessful in making money, although there was a crowd of more than 25,000. After a year off, the music festival was back on in April of 2001, held on a single day. As the years went on, Coachella gained popularity and became a recurring tradition. The festival days varied each year and went from a one- six day event, and finally became a consecutive two-weekend music festival since 2012.
Coachella is known for hosting varying types of artists from all genres of music, like rock, pop, hip-hop, and electronic. Well-known artists who have headlined at Coachella include: Beastie Boys, Coldplay, Prince, Jay-Z, Kanye West, ACDC, Drake, Doja Cat, and so many more. Throughout the festival, the big artists will perform, and in between their performances, the smaller creators will perform their music. This year, Lady Gaga, Green Day, Travis Scott, and Post Malone headlined Coachella. Other artists performing under them were Benson Boone, Tyla, The Go–Go’s, Glorilla, and many more (Coachella.com). From many different perspectives on social media, such as Stephen Council to viewers at the festival, Travis Scott’s performance seemed to be more than disappointing. He had not performed many of his biggest hits that were anticipated, and during his other songs, there was never a point that created an exciting performance (SFGate.com).
Each year, it seems like the effort to design and wear creative outfits keeps declining. When Coachella was at its peak from 2013-17, the fashion never failed. People who attended wore the most creative and elaborate outfits to fit the theme of bohemian and desert vibes. This year, all around the media on different platforms such as TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram, different creators and influencers posted Coachella vlogs in regular everyday outfits, and the ones watching were not fans of it. Bigger influencers like James Charles, a YouTuber and content creator, did show up with big fashion statements that did not disappoint. His elaborate latex top and net hair accessory were fan favorites.
Among all of the different performances to watch, there were other activities to pursue at the festival. Some other activities included going to the activities tents, where there were opportunities to participate in pickleball or watermelon fights, or visiting the Coachella Art Studios and enjoying free arts and crafts. There were also many chances to get some shopping done with all kinds of merchandise around the camp. Other activities like a 5K, dance parties, tattoo parlors, and photo booths were available. Along with activities, there was an endless variety of different foods ranging from burgers or tacos to hibachi or smoothies. There were also vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options as well.
The Coachella Music Festival is known worldwide, with people from across the world coming to enjoy an amazing festival out in the desert. Being at Coachella is a truly unique experience, especially if music is something you appreciate. It is a great place to meet new friends and find new interests and activities.