A Legendary Season
It’s a thrilling time of year for music festival enthusiasts, filled with eager expectation for the extraordinary event that changes Indio, California into a lively paradise of live performances and unforgettable energy. The months of excitement have come to a culminating point: Coachella 2025 has now come around where music fans will have a two-week time to go through star-studded sets that’ll make their imaginations run wild. This year’s highly anticipated festival starts off with its first weekend from Friday, April 11, to Sunday, April 13, then it comes back for another weekend from Friday, April 18, to Sunday, April 20. Whether you’re attending in person or watching from home, the thrill is at its peak as the desert is transformed into a lively center of travel movement, crowds of people and the best music beats.
As Coachella 2025 approaches, with scores of festivalgoers clinging to Indio, the aura of the event is getting more and more exciting. The superdiverse lineup features artists in different genres like indie rock and hip-hop, and it attract fans from all over the world. From the earliest sets at midday to the late-night closers under the desert moon, the schedule leaves attendees spoilt for choice. From the earliest sets at midday to the late-night closers under the desert moon, the schedule leaves attendees spoilt for choice. For those who can’t make the pilgrimage, YouTube’s comprehensive livestream transforms living rooms into “Couch-ella” arenas, ensuring that everyone can immerse themselves in the festivities from wherever they are.
Essential Headliners
Of course, no plan would be complete without carving out space to see the festival’s major headlining acts. This year, four colossal names dominate the top slots. Lady Gaga commands the stage with her signature flair, while Green Day delivers powerful rock anthems spanning decades of hits. Post Malone, known for his energetic live shows, will have the concert-goers spellbound with the latest hits. In the meantime, Travis Scott is going to make the festival a never to be forgotten affair with his unmatched performance. Although these juggernauts are must-sees, there are countless other performers who deserve just as much attention.
Coachella’s reputation for spotlighting up and coming talent and eclectic sounds is well-earned, so delving deeper into the sweeping lineup pays off. There are at least 22 other exciting acts who merit a spot on your itinerary. With so many stages and so little time, meticulous planning becomes a festivalgoer’s secret weapon. Post Malone, known for his energetic live shows, will have the concert-goers spellbound with the latest hits. In the meantime, Travis Scott is going to make the festival a never to be forgotten affair with his unmatched performance.
By chance, explorers can come across interesting new artists, fall in love with them, and witness mind-blowing surprises. The excitement of Coachella is found not just in the headline performers but also in the opportunity to suddenly find the best band or DJ you’ve never heard of. A music fan can create an event that is fresh and personalized by striking a balance between the famous and the up-and-coming artists.
Surprise Additions: Weezer and Ed Sheeran
In a bombshell reveal on April 5, Coachella unveiled two high-profile additions to this year’s stacked program. Weezer, famous for hits like “Island in the Sun,” will journey from their melodic rock realm to the sweltering desert heat for a Saturday afternoon performance, despite the recent turbulence involving bassist Scott Shriner’s wife, Jillian Lauren, who was arrested following a shooting. Meanwhile, Ed Sheeran is set to make his Coachella debut on weekend two and promises to give fans “shivers” in more ways than one. Both sets are scheduled for the comparatively intimate Mojave stage, which is astonishing when you consider Weezer’s spectacular 2019 Coachella slot on the main stage (complete with special guests Chilli from TLC and Tears for Fears) and Sheeran’s unwavering record of selling out arenas around the globe.
For devoted fans of Weezer and Ed Sheeran, the smaller Mojave stage setup will likely mean that every inch of space is claimed in record time. Arriving early becomes crucial if you want a decent view of either group’s performance. Otherwise, you’ll find yourself pressed against the outer fringes, straining for a glimpse of the band or singer in the distance. Part of Coachella’s charm is this communal energy, but with massively popular artists booked on a more modest stage, competition for personal space will be fiercer than ever. Embracing the crowd may be part of the fun, yet anyone set on truly experiencing these shows should hustle to secure a good spot before the sets begin.
Preparing for Your Epic Weekend
As the desert sun rises over Coachella 2025, festivalgoers of all stripes get ready to immerse themselves in performances that span genres, decades, and even continents. Whether you plan to stand in the front row at Lady Gaga’s set, jam to Green Day’s classic hits, sway to Post Malone’s chart-toppers, or marvel at Travis Scott’s next-level show, the weekend promises a feast for every musical taste. The surprise additions of Weezer and Ed Sheeran only add to the long list of unmissable shows, underscoring how essential smart scheduling can be. Even those who stay home can still witness the festival’s magic online, thanks to the comprehensive YouTube stream. Ultimately, Coachella 2025 offers something for every hardcore fans, casual listeners, and first timers alike—making it a uniquely thrilling event that truly does mark the greatest time of the year for music festivals.
Missy Elliott’s Historic Coachella Debut
Missy Elliott is making her first Coachella appearance this year, which shocks many fans given her iconic status and groundbreaking 2023 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction. She became the first woman rapper to receive that honor, yet somehow never performed at this festival until now. She just wrapped her Out of This World tour last year, thrilling audiences and proving she remains a mighty hip-hop force. Despite her decades-long influence, this marks her inaugural appearance in Indio, and she’s ready to headline the main stage on Friday. The timing is perfect after she hyped the crowd at the concert by being super creative with the hits from a long time ago.
The fans have been waiting for this occasion for years now and her performance is expected to be the talk of the town even after it is all over. It’s no wonder anticipation is through the roof for what many believe will be a defining performance. She has promised to “work it, put her thang down, flip it, and reverse it” and teased that “a few aliens ’bout to show up,” hinting at the bold, futuristic aesthetic that’s always defined her style. Audiences can expect her biggest hits — including the timeless “Get Ur Freak On” — paired with a boundary-pushing stage production shaped by her tour’s cosmic flair.
This combination of classic tracks and imaginative visuals underscores why her Coachella debut is so overdue and so highly anticipated. Fans are eager to see how these extraterrestrial elements merge with her dynamic choreography, offering a performance that could redefine festival showmanship. Missy Elliott’s knack for blending innovation with nostalgia suggests no one will leave disappointed. She’s set to push every creative limit, ensuring an unforgettable main-stage experience for both earthlings and any interplanetary visitors alike.
Yo Gabba Gabba!
Yo Gabba Gabba! is set to invade Coachella again, and if you haven’t heard of them yet, you’re in for a one-of-a-kind experience that can’t be missed. This lively children’s TV show features cartoon characters who miraculously come to life, bringing a whirlwind of fuzzy, dancing creatures who radiate peculiar charm. Their surprise appearance at last year’s festival happened during the Aquabats’ pool party, so anyone who missed that memorable cameo now has the perfect chance to redeem themselves. Meanwhile, they’ve already taken over Coachella’s Instagram to share helpful tips on how festival-goers can make the most of the weekend, which demonstrates just how perfectly they blend their wacky humor with sensible advice.
These bizarre beings love to groove, and there’s no doubt their upcoming act will be a major highlight full of bright costumes. Fans eagerly await the unpredictable frenzy of a Yo Gabba Gabba! performance should head straight to the Mojave stage on Saturday, where DJ Lance Rock will helm the show with his trademark neon attire and endless supply of joy. Between the music and the hilariously offbeat creatures bounding across the stage, there’s no telling what unexpected antics may emerge.
It’s a sure thing that the show will have a special guest, considering the fact that stars such as Jack Black, Andy Samberg, and Elijah Wood have previously been on the program. The stage usually appeals to children through music and entertainment, thus the audience eagerly takes part in different activities and even if they haven’t watched a single episode of the show, they continue to have a pleasurable time. Another joyful element comes from the fact that anyone from the audience could possibly come onto the stage and entertain the rest, thus guaranteeing that shows with Yo Gabba Gabba! will never be the same.
Lisa, Jennie, and Enhypen
Anyone hoping for K-pop in the desert will find exactly what they’re looking for at this year’s Coachella. In 2019, Blackpink made history as the festival’s first-ever K-pop act, and now two of its members are stepping out on their own for solo performances that promise to be just as electrifying. Lisa, who also stars in The White Lotus, is set to wake up in that fierce “mode” all over again when she kicks things off on Friday at the Sahara stage, ensuring an explosive show that celebrates her transformation from group icon to solo powerhouse.
Jennie, who’s been a major force in Blackpink’s global success, will then have her time to shine on Sunday at the Outdoor Theatre, bringing the weekend to a thrilling close. Both artists have demonstrated extraordinary talent as part of Blackpink, and watching them spread their creative wings independently should be a highlight for fans craving high-energy performances paired with the signature style that has made them two of K-pop’s brightest stars. Their presence here is a testament to how far the genre has come since that groundbreaking 2019 set, as well as how ready fans are to embrace even more K-pop acts in Coachella’s diverse lineup.
Solo Stars and a Rising Boy Band
While Lisa and Jennie may spark plenty of excitement on their own, this year’s festival continues its commitment to showcasing the genre by welcoming Enhypen, a rapidly rising K-pop boy group eager to make a splash in the desert. They’ll storm the Sahara stage on Saturday, making their Coachella debut with a distinctive sound and style that have garnered them a passionate following both at home and abroad. Anyone who attends their set can expect synchronized choreography, heart-racing beats, and the unique blend of vocals that sets Enhypen apart in a fiercely competitive pop scene.
With Lisa kicking off the weekend, Enhypen tearing it up mid-festival, and Jennie bringing the celebration home on the final day, Coachella delivers a K-pop trifecta that’s guaranteed to captivate veterans of the genre and newcomers alike. In a festival lineup filled with musical diversity, these artists bring a bold, fast-paced sound to Indio, inviting audiences to dance, sing, and immerse themselves in everything the K-pop world has to offer. How you like that?
Charli XCX’s Return
Charli XCX completely dominated summer 2024, enthralling fans with her bold style and unforgettable hits. Even though she officially declared that “Brat summer” has ended, she’s charging into the desert with a main-stage set on Saturday that promises to raise the energy to spectacular heights. Expect her to unleash all the club classics everyone knows, launch into the popular “Apple” dance, and transform every lime-green outfit in the crowd into a full 360 party vibe. Nevertheless, the buzz suggests Charli might also deliver unexpected moments, possibly bringing out stars like Billie Eilish, Lorde, Julia Fox, or other members of her celebrated inner circle. Eagle-eyed festival-goers spotted lime-green billboards with the word “brat” crossed out on the road to Indio, which hints that Charli might be revealing an all-new era ready to supersede the one she just wrapped up.
Meanwhile, festival favorite the Dare, known for frequent collaborations with Charli XCX, is scheduled to play on the Mojave stage later that same Saturday. He might end up surprising the crowd by inviting Charli to join him for a set of electrifying performances, bringing together two creative forces who share a knack for producing high-energy music. The rumor mill has been running wild about potential joint appearances ever since fans learned they’d be at the same festival on the same day, raising hopes that new takes on previous releases—or even brand-new tracks—could be in store. The synergy they bring could amplify the desert atmosphere, ensuring that the crowd is swept up in a mix of pounding beats and playful pop hooks. With Charli already commanding the main stage, her cameo at the Mojave could become a spontaneous highlight that delivers the ultimate one-two punch for festival attendees.
Barry Can’t Swim x 2manydjs x Salute
Coachella’s Quasar stage is back in action after a massive debut last year, once again promising an array of cutting-edge electronic-music acts that will keep festival-goers dancing for hours on end. Enormous in scale and buzzing with energy, this colossal platform will feature extended sets lasting three hours each, with a rotating cast of DJs playing across both weekends. The schedule spans a diverse range of performers who specialize in every electronic subgenre imaginable, ensuring that no matter when you show up, you’ll stumble into pulsating beats.
This year’s emphasis on marathon performances builds upon Quasar’s reputation for hosting immersive sets where artists can truly stretch out and experiment. The stage’s visual production also levels up, with next-level light shows and expansive screens designed to mesmerize the crowd at every turn. Although Quasar boasts an impressive list of DJs all weekend long, Saturday’s highlight will undoubtedly be the epic back-to-back-to-back performance featuring Barry Can’t Swim, 2manydjs, and Salute. The collective energy generated by these three acts playing in rapid succession is expected to keep adrenaline pumping from start to finish.
Barry Can’t Swim, renowned for his boundary-pushing sound, leads the charge, followed immediately by 2manydjs, who also perform under their well-loved alias Soulwax, and are famous for fusing multiple genres into seamless, high-octane mixes. Finally, Salute steps in with his soulful twist on club music, tying the entire triple-header together in a way that should enthrall both longtime aficionados and newcomers. The synergy created by these DJs sharing the stage in one continuous set is one of those rare happenings that festival fans talk about for years afterward. With so much talent converging in a single time slot, anyone who misses it may spend the rest of the weekend hearing nothing but raves about what they skipped.
Megan Thee Stallion
Megan Thee Stallion, straight after the impact of her remarkable “Hot Girl Summer,” has planned to play her next show at Coachella’s main stage on Sunday, which is merely a couple of years after her matchless 2022 festival set. Her step into the limelight with her lively stage performance with confident, which solidified her as a performer of the highest level who fearlessly leads the crowd. All along her way up, she has been breaking the norms and shaking the status quo, mixing untamed skills with a very loud message. Her previous Coachella performance received huge acclaims mainly due to untamed energy, the vivid presentation of choreography, brash showmanship, and the response from the crowd that just wanted more. Now, she’s ready to show off her continued evolution, determined to maintain that same incredible momentum amid a sea of high-profile acts and music fanatics converging on the desert.
On top of her signature style, the Houston native has cultivated a star-studded roster of collaborators, including Beyoncé, Cardi B, Nicki Minaj, and Ty Dolla $ign, who happens to be performing at the Sahara stage on the very same day. This impressive resume naturally fuels fan speculation that big-name surprise guests might crash her set—though Megan has already confirmed that it won’t be Minaj. Even so, she’s amassed a massive collection of smash hits in such a short span that she hardly requires any co-stars to dominate her allotted time. From “Sav*ge” to other chart-toppers, her discography can effortlessly captivate the crowd from start to finish, ensuring everyone’s attention remains riveted on the main stage. As Sunday closes out the festival weekend, Megan will undoubtedly bring her fierce confidence, unstoppable flow, and vibrant energy for a show that attendees won’t forget.
Benson Boone
Benson Boone’s exponential increase in the past one year shows that he will have one singular crescendo: his upcoming Coachella debut on the main stage. Benson’s meteoric rise from not being one of the American Idol contestants just four years ago to his current position is indeed striking, yet his tenacious spirit brought him through a more vibrant path. Music fans worldwide have latched onto his heartfelt style, and that momentum has carried him straight to one of the biggest festival stages on the planet. Friday’s crowd will undoubtedly witness his passion and fearless stage persona, which have become his trademarks as he’s drawn in larger and larger audiences.
Beyond simply singing his breakout song, “Beautiful Things,” he’s likely to showcase new twists that reflect his eagerness to impress, ensuring onlookers are in for a thrilling display. Though Benson Boone’s live shows consistently highlight his powerful vocals, observers can also anticipate plenty of spectacle beyond the music. The public have got used to his unexpected backflips – sometimes one after another – a manner which brings an athletic flavor and astonishes everyone around.
Making the biggest wave among the audience, the artist has let people know in the interview about his plans of easy-going wardrobe changes during the performance, demonstrating an extra bold, unscripted side to his already big and impressive character. This Friday placement puts him front and center just before Missy Elliott and Lady Gaga step onto the same stage, creating the perfect opportunity to win over new fans and leave a memorable impression. For those staking out prime spots early in the day, his engaging performance is set to warm up the desert air and pump up the enthusiasm levels, keeping everyone fired up long after he’s done.
The Original Misfits
The desert is about to get truly spooky as the Misfits, pioneers of the horror-punk genre, take over the Outdoor Theatre on Saturday night. Featured in the itinerary in their own handwriting, they make a statement that the founding members Glenn Danzig, Jerry Only, and Doyle Wolfgang von Frankenstein will play with Dave Lombardo and Acey Slade. This spot at the festival is a great victory because the audience could witness a band that was a significant part of the early 80s hardcore genre with their dark and edgy aesthetics, lyrics, and infamous stage manner.
Although they broke up for the first time over 40 years ago, different lineups later were formed and they still found a loyal following among the fans and were bringing their dark, energetic music to new followers. Nine years ago, following protracted legal disputes, these legendary creators reunited at Riot Fest, officially restoring the Original Misfits name to its proper place in music history. Seeing the Original Misfits close out Saturday isn’t going to be a run-of-the-mill Coachella set, and that fact alone makes it all the more essential.
Fans and newcomers alike will get to immerse themselves in a show that defies expectations, as the band’s theatrics, horror-inspired imagery, and raw punk intensity take center stage. Glenn Danzig’s distinct vocals, woven through guitar work by Doyle and Jerry Only’s pounding bass lines, should unleash a wave of nostalgia for anyone who grew up in the orbit of these spooky sounds. Meanwhile, Dave Lombardo’s drumming expertise and Acey Slade’s added contributions create a formidable lineup prepared to shock the crowd in the best way possible. The presence of such a storied act also underscores the festival’s mission to blend diverse genres, ensuring that Coachella isn’t just about mainstream pop stars or modern alternative icons.
Jimmy Eat World
The temperature might hover near 100 degrees, but emo and pop-punk fans have endured worse at Warped Tour, so Jimmy Eat World is the ideal nostalgic addition to Coachella’s main stage on Saturday afternoon. Festival-goers can sing along to “The Middle,” “Sweetness,” and “Angels Lead You In” before headliners Green Day take over that night, soaking up the same fiery energy once fueled by Warped Tour’s concrete. Their performance promises to recreate that sweaty communal vibe, blending heartfelt anthems with scorching desert heat for a memory that resonates far beyond the festival.
It has been 14 years since Jimmy Eat World last played Coachella, and now they’re finally back, reminding everyone, “We’re in the middle of the ride. And everything — everything — will be alright.” Their appearance is nothing less than a long-awaited family reunion for those who saw the start of their careers in the early 2000s while at the same time the event becomes a new chapter for those who have not yet gone out of loving the mix of their emotional lyrics and infectious pop-punk riffs. Despite the scorching sun, their return is still the very epitome of why the band’s classics still have the power to bring people together, thus making clear that a nostalgic moment is able to transmit the same electric feeling as it did long ago.
Djo
Joe Keery first captured audiences worldwide as Steve Harrington on Stranger Things, juggling supernatural babysitting duties that launched him into pop culture fame. Now, he’s embracing a calmer, less perilous path by pursuing a music career. The actor-turned-artist goes by the mononym Djo, pronounced “Joe,” adding a playful twist to his established persona. Rather than battling Demogorgons, he channels that intense creativity into soulful vocals, catchy melodies, and introspective lyrics. His shift from Netflix heartthrob to serious musician has sparked curiosity among fans who appreciate seeing him flourish in unexpected environments. Escaping the chaotic realm of the Upside Down, he’s reinventing himself onstage while maintaining the same charm that endeared him to viewers. With each new release, he proves that crossing over from blockbuster TV to avant-garde music can feel surprisingly natural.
Djo’s recent viral sensation “End of Beginning” propelled him to greater stardom, clearing a path to his first Coachella appearance on Friday at the Mojave stage. Anyone anticipating a spooky cameo need only consider that Stranger Things costar Charlie Heaton might make a surprise visit to perform his piece in “Charlie’s Garden,” the track Keery wrote with him in mind. Whether Heaton materializes or not, attendees can expect an ultra-chill and vibey set that suits the festival’s golden hour like a glove.
It’s a radical shift from the dangers of babysitting psychokinetic teens, yet no less exciting in its own right. As sunlight fades and the crowd sways, Djo’s genre-blending style will remind everyone how music can transport us somewhere thrilling—without needing a portal to another dimension. The combination of Keery’s emotive stage presence and smooth vocals ensures this performance will be anything but ordinary, leaving fans grateful they’re not fighting monsters, just grooving to the sound of his latest evolution.
Shaboozey’s Early Southern Charm
Stagecoach won’t roll in until both Coachella weekends have ended, and by then, the once-lush grass in Indio is typically trampled or gone—apologies to country fans who crave that greenery. Fortunately, there’s no need to wait for that familiar twang, because this year brings a taste of Southern flair to the festival a bit sooner than expected. For those who plan on getting tipsy (or keeping it clean and hydrated!), there’s good news: Shaboozey, the artist who merges rap and country, is taking over the main stage bright and early on Sunday.
He’ll deliver the perfect bridge between pop, hip-hop, and the sounds of honky-tonk grit, filling the desert air with an unexpected blend of urban rhythms and down-home vibes. The result is a lively show for any festival-goer, whether they’re rocking cowboy boots or classic sneakers, proving that Coachella’s genre boundaries can be stretched without losing its trademark magic. And with a little luck, someone will pour Shaboozey a double shot of whiskey while he ignites the crowd, reminding everyone that a dash of Southern charm fits right in under the scorching Indio sun.
Lola Young’s “Messy” Desert Debut
With all that desert dust swirling around, it’s fitting that South London newcomer Lola Young will be hitting the Mojave stage on Friday. She went viral last year with her single “Messy,” and now she’s poised to make a big splash at the festival. Her early slot might seem like a warm-up act, but any fan who arrives in time will discover a singer-songwriter brimming with raw talent and captivating presence. Those who come late risk missing out, because buzz on the grounds suggests that anyone who catches her set will still be talking about it months from now.
Given that Coachella teems with countless performers, there’s no denying the significance of a new artist who can rise above the noise and command attention under the blazing desert sun. Combining emotional storytelling with an irresistible stage persona, Lola Young offers a prime opportunity to experience tomorrow’s star in her meteoric ascent toward wider acclaim.
A New “Day Zero” Tradition
“Day zero” has always been a highlight for the early arrivals who dare to camp at Coachella before the official Friday kickoff—tents pop up on Thursday, neighbors connect, and impromptu mini parties erupt. This year, those gatherings evolve into the very first Thursday night sets right in the campgrounds. For weekend one, Chris Lake will get the music flowing, and weekend two sees Disco Dom (the funkier side of Dombresky) spinning groovy beats well before the main festival begins. Only campers on site can join this exclusive pre-festival rave, so anyone booked at a hotel or house misses out. The upgrade cements “day zero” as a must-experience celebration, giving dedicated festival-goers a proper chance to dance late into the night—and well ahead of the crowds who won’t roll in until Friday morning.
A Colorful Haven
The most entertaining stage in Coachella, beyond question, is Do LaB with its vibrant design, playful energy, and spectacular electronic music artists that has gained status of being an indispensable part of the festival. Created by Dede, Jesse, and Josh Flemming, each year adds a new line of acts that are spread over both weekends. This guarantees the fact that there is always a surprise to find under the unique canopy. This time, attendees can look forward to a special DJ set by none other than drag queen Trixie Mattel, whose dynamic presence is certain to raise the excitement even higher. Adding another layer of mystery, the Do LaB continues its tradition of surprise headliners each night—last year, Billie Eilish stunned everyone when she used it as the stage for her live debut of “Lunch.”
Now situated in a fresh spot after swapping places with the Quasar stage, the Do LaB remains an ideal place to unwind, dance, and indulge in Coachella’s more free-spirited side. Whether you need a shady respite from the burning desert sun or a chance to feel the cool spray of the venue’s famous water cannons, this immersive enclave caters to all manner of festival cravings. Though electronic music sits at its core, the Do LaB often transcends genre boundaries and surprises even seasoned Coachella veterans with its ever-evolving lineup of DJs and artists. People who wander inside can find themselves entranced by eye-popping colors, entrancing beats, and a communal vibe that sets it apart from the festival’s larger stages.
