Festival season is back in full swing, with Coachella 2023 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 2023, from the music to the food to, of course, the parties. See you in the desert!
When is Coachella 2023?
Coachella takes place over two weekends, with weekend one kicking off this Friday, April 14. Weekend two starts on Friday, April 21. 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 2023?
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).
How much are tickets for Coachella 2023?
Tiers determine ticket prices—and the earlier you buy, the better. Tier 1 pass prices for general admission start at $549 before fees, tier 2 at $574, tier 3 at $599, and finally, tier 5 for $649. VIP tickets to Coachella are also an option, starting at $1,069. 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 2023?
This year's headliners include Bad Bunny, Blackpink, and Frank Ocean's much-anticipated return to the Coachella stage. Calvin Harris is also performing a special DJ set on both weekends. Other big names include Rosalía, Becky G, Björk, Charli XCX, and many more. If you're attending the festival, you can expect set times to drop later this week. Organize your schedule using the official Coachella app.
Where should one stay to attend Coachella 2023?
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 Lake Eldorado, where you can book a tent or lodge which includes bedding and cots, 24-hour concierge service, private bathrooms and showers, and a general store. Admission for two people starts at $2,798. 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.
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 $199 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 $120 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 L.A.-based favorites like Delilah, Ggiata, Monty's Good Burger, and Dave's Hot Chicken. NYC favorite Prince St. Pizza will be on the premises, and Malibu hotspot Broad Street Oyster Co. will have a full-service pop-up restaurant on the festival grounds for oysters (duh), lobster rolls, and more. Guests can purchase standard drinks from alcohol tents throughout the grounds, and Coachella's official hydration partner, Electrolit, will be available. This year, Coachella will also have its first non-alcoholic retail activation, The New Bar, for those seeking booze-free fun.
Feeling fancy? Purchase a ticket to one of Coachella's annual Outstanding in the Field dinners, which features global chefs both weekends. The dinners offer 275-person long tables and four-course meals in Coachella's VIP Rose Garden. Yum.
What art installations will be at Coachella this year?
You can expect to see some immersive art throughout the Empire Polo Field; it's not called the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival for nothing. After you snap your quintessential Ferris wheel pic this year, check out other photo-worthy ops like Balloon Chain and new art installations by Do LaB, Güvenç Özel, Maggie West, Vincent LeRoy, Raices Cultura, and more.
Are there any parties to attend during Coachella?
Coachella's party scene is truly unmatched, and plenty of your favorite brands join in on the fun with activations or full-on ragers.
