Coachella 2026 takes place April 10–12 and 17–19, 2026, at the Empire Polo Club in Indio, CA. Headliners are Sabrina Carpenter, Justin Bieber and Karol G, with the same full lineup repeated each weekend. Other notable artists include Iggy Pop, David Byrne, Devo, Turnstile, Addison Rae, jazz-pop singer Laufey, DJs Kaskade and Anyma, rappers Young Thug and BIA, and K-pop stars Bigbang and Taemin. Exact set times will be released via the Coachella mobile app just before the festival. Tickets sold out quickly – GA weekend passes began around $649 (Week 1) and $549 (Week 2), VIP were $1,299/$1,199. Camping options include standard (car) camping ($160), group camping (same price per car, min 10 cars), powered sites ($620), and higher-end ready tents or lodge tents ($690 or more). Day-of schedules, stage locations, and on-site maps are on Coachella’s official site, including an official venue map below:

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Coachella 2026 Guide, Palm Springs (PSP) is the closest airport, with LAX and Ontario also serving the area. Coachella offers shuttle passes ($150 total for Wed–Mon) and recommends avoiding driving; preferred parking (north entrance, all weekend) costs $299. Onsite camping opens Thursday at 9am, with strict rules (lockdown 9pm–2am). Festivities are rain-or-shine. The festival is entirely cashless (vendors accept cards/mobile only), with many food/drink vendors and a water refill program. Alcohol is sold onsite (21+ with ID) and outside alcohol is banned. Extensive amenities (medical tents, charging lockers, women’s wellness tents, lost & found) and accessibility services are provided. Notable Coachella moments include past surprise performances and genre breakthroughs; 2026 trends show increased Latin, K-pop and electronic presence, and a continued focus on sustainability (recycling programs, partnerships) and health guidelines (remain mindful of COVID-19 even though no specific mandates are in place). No refunds or transfers are allowed without official notice, so attendees should plan carefully. Below is a detailed breakdown of lineup, tickets, camping, logistics, and tips for Coachella 2026.

Lineup & Schedule

Coachella’s lineup was announced September 15, 2025. 2026 headliners are Sabrina Carpenter, Justin Bieber and Karol G, each closing one night of the three-day weekend (Fri, Sat, Sun). (Anyma is billed as a surprise headliner for the new Quasar stage.) The “both weekends” model means the same artists appear on April 10–12 and again April 17–19. Aside from headliners, the lineup spans rock (Iggy Pop, Devo, The Strokes), pop (Addison Rae), Latin (Karol G, Lunay), R&B (SZA), rap (Young Thug, BIA, Doechii), country (Zach Bryan), jazz-pop (Laufey), EDM (Kaskade, KNIFE PARTY), and even K-pop (Bigbang, Taemin, Blind Channel). This reflects Coachella’s trend toward diverse genres and global talent. The exact daily schedule (who plays which stage and when) has been published on Coachella’s site and app. For example, Week 2’s Friday schedule shows Sabrina Carpenter on the main stage 9–10:40pm. The Coachella app will list all set times a couple days before the festival.

Stage Assignments: Coachella has multiple stages: the Main “Coachella” Stage and 12 Peaks area (with air-conditioned VIP lounges) for headliners, plus Outdoor Theatre (rock/pop), Sahara (electronic), Yuma (underground dance), Gobi (electronic/techno), Sonora (DJ sets), Mojave (mix of rock/hip-hop), and the new Quasar (late-night EDM). Acts like Jack White or Foo Fighters would be on main stages, while DJs like Anyma or Galactic might be in Sahara or Yuma. Stage maps and festival maps (with stage icons) are available on the Coachella website.

Set Times: Coachella provides a chart of set times by stage (see official schedule). Generally, bigger acts play later (primetime), smaller acts earlier. Official set times were released about two days before the festival start; check the Coachella app or website schedule. (If researching before release, one can expect headliners around 9–11pm on their main day, with early acts starting ~3pm.) Note schedules are “rain or shine” and subject to change.

Notable Guests: Coachella often features surprise collaborations. In past weekends, Sabrina Carpenter brought out Madonna for a new song, and other surprise duets have occurred. This year, fans should watch headlines for pop-up appearances (last year saw Madonna & Dua Lipa guest at acts). Even aside from in-show surprises, guest sets can pop up; for example, Addison Rae’s booking has drawn interest (she’s known for viral performances). So far, standouts include a planned joint act “Nine Inch Noize” (NIN + Boys Noize), and the experimental Bob Baker Marionettes show (theater). The timing of surprise guests is unpredictable, but attendees should follow Coachella’s social media or live blogs for updates.

Tickets & Passes

Types: Tickets come as 3-day weekend passes. General Admission (GA) covers entry to all three days. VIP passes (with access to VIP lounges like 12 Peaks) are more expensive. Other options included GA 4-packs (4 passes with a small bundle discount) and GA+Shuttle combos. For those who wanted a guaranteed parking spot, Preferred Parking passes ($299 total) could be added. All tickets were sold through AXS; official resale/transfer services are disabled (no “official” resale).

Prices: At public sale, GA passes started at $649 for Weekend 1 (April 10–12) and $549 for Weekend 2 (April 17–19). VIP passes started at $1,299 (Wk1) and $1,199 (Wk2). A limited 4-Pack GA pass (x4 tickets) saved $10 per pass. Prices included fees and were tiered by release date (buy early to save). For budgeting: two GA tickets Weekend 1 ≈ $1,298 total, two VIP ≈ $2,598 total. The preferred parking pass was $299 per car for the whole weekend. Coachella Shuttle passes (shuttle service Wed–Mon) were $150 total per person. Add-ons included lockers ($89–$109 for GA, $79–$99 for charging lockers) and merch (e.g. $90 hoodie, $20 official poster).

Purchase Windows: Goldenvoice offered various presales: American Express cardholders, waitlist members, and subscription (coachellavice) had early access in early Sept 2025. General sale began Sept 6, 2025 (week after lineup). By mid-Sep, passes were sold out. The waitlist opened for sold-out items (no set queue number shown, first-come basis). All onsale deadlines (like shipping) were on the Coachella site: e.g. domestic delivery cutoff mid-March.

Resale, Refunds & Transfers: Coachella’s policy is strict: no refunds, cancellations or exchanges except if the event is postponed/canceled. Tickets were non-transferable once the wristband is applied. Goldenvoice warns against 3rd-party sellers, and scalped/fake tickets can be voided without notice. Officially, fan accounts (AXS FanAccount) can transfer passes to other verified users before they are shipped, but once scanned at entry all sales are final. In short, buy only from official AXS and be sure of dates – plan around the “no refund” rule.

Camping Options

Staying onsite lets you avoid commuting. Coachella offers several camping categories (prices and amenities given below). All camping requires a valid Coachella pass for each person in the camp spot.

• Car Camping: The basic option for small tents or sleeping in/around your car. Car Camping passes were $160 total (Thursday–Monday). Each spot accommodates one vehicle and its contents. A new Group Camping option (min 10 cars, max 20) costs the same ($160 each); the benefit is cars can arrive separately and still camp adjacent.
• Preferred / Front Row Camping: Closer spots near the festival entrances. Preferred Car Camping and Front-Row Car Camping existed for guaranteed proximity. (They sold out early.)
• Powered Camping: Same as car camping but each spot has an electrical outlet and upgraded restrooms/showers. Powered passes were $620 total. Good for those needing power (motors, lights, small appliances).
• Ready-Set Tents: You get a reserved tent already set up (doubles as a souvenir). This was $690 total for the weekend (roughly $172.50/night). Perfect if you want camping without buying gear.
• La Campana (Glamping): Climate-controlled pre-set tents with beds. Options included 1- or 2-queen beds, or 2/4 twins for up to 4 people. These upscale tents were very pricey (sold out; no prices listed publicly).
• Lake Eldorado (Luxury): Pre-built glamping lodges on a lake. For example, a 4-person tent was $3,000 for the weekend, and 2-person lodge $2,300. (These include furniture and might sleep up to 4.)
• Safari Camping: The highest tier – safari tents with extras like electricity, linens, catering, even golf carts. Details on Valley Music Travel site.
• Companion Camping Parking ($210): If your camp group has extra vehicles, you could buy an additional parking spot for one car ($210). Only one per order, and it’s adjacent to camp but not guaranteed next to your tent. Note: no re-entry if you exit your camp parking during lockdown hours.

All camping lots are adjacent to the venue, so it’s a short walk to stages (though paths can be long in flip-flops!). Showers (separate male/female/all-gender) are available and water refill stations are plentiful. A camping center with general store, food vendors, and wellness areas exists. Campers get wristbands at check-in; sites close Monday 10am. Notably, no tents in Parking lots, and you cannot sleep in cars outside designated camping spots. Biking is allowed inside camping (with rules), and cars are locked down 9pm–2am each night (no exiting).

Coachella 2026 Guide Venue & Accessibility

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Coachella’s site is the Empire Polo Club (big open field with polo field grid). The venue map shows stage locations, bars, medical tents, etc (official maps are posted on Coachella.com). The main entrance opens at 1pm each festival day. A small map image is above (the official 2026 venue map). Key notes:

• Stage Layout: The Main (Coachella) Stage and Outdoor Theatre (for big headliners) sit at one end. Sahara (electronic/dance) is a large dome tent nearby; Yuma and Gobi (for DJs) are tent stages; 12 Peaks is the VIP area behind Main Stage; Sonora and Mojave are general admission main-stage side stages; Quasar is a new stage area in Camping Lot 12 (late-night electronic) not shown above.
• General Policies: All ages allowed; kids under 5 free (GA only). Patrons are searched on entry, rain-or-shine. Staff are strict on prohibited items (below).
• Wristbands: Once applied, wristbands are non-transferable. Keep it on at all times. Scanners verify daily entry.
• Lost & Found: If you lose keys/phone/etc, visit the on-site Lost & Found near the main entrance. You can also search online via the app/website. Do not give found items to random staff.
• Medical Services: First aid and medical tents (staffed by Global Medical Response) are located throughout the site. They handle minor injuries or emergencies. For anything urgent, flag a staff or use camping’s 24/7 assistance phones (listed on maps). Breathing issues, dehydration, etc – don’t hesitate to seek them. There are also breast-pumping stations and cooling mist areas.
• Accessibility: Coachella is ADA-friendly. Accessible parking (Lot 15A) is free for valid placards. There are three Accessibility Services hubs (near entrance, Gate A, and accessible parking) where you get an ADA wristband and assistance. Please bring only one companion per ADA guest (extra available if needed). Assistive devices (e.g. wheelchairs) are allowed; however motorized scooters are not permitted except for ADA guests.
• Other Amenities: Charging lockers (GA and VIP) are offered (rentable through AXS) for storing/charging phones. General stores in camping sell essentials (sunscreen, hats, snacks). Free water filling stations throughout (bring an empty bottle up to 64oz). Shaded areas and misting tents are placed around the grounds for cooling.

All important details (maps, ADA guide, festival rules) are on Coachella’s official site. The onsite map (above) can help you plan meeting points and transit paths.

Getting There & Transportation

Airports: The closest airport is Palm Springs Intl. (PSP; ~30 minutes by car). Los Angeles (LAX) and Ontario airports are larger alternatives (~2–3 hours away). For international travelers, live tours in Mexico offer Coachella packages.

Shuttle: The official Coachella shuttle (Valley Music Travel) offers rides from local hotels or resorts to the festival. A Coachella Shuttle Pass ($150 total) covers round-trip each day. Shuttles have their own lanes to avoid traffic and drop passengers near the entrance. Valley Music also offers a one-way LAX shuttle bundle for travel. Shuttles are recommended to “avoid driving and parking”. Shuttle stops/locations are given on Coachella’s app and website.

Driving & Parking: Driving to Coachella can be stressful. If you drive, buy a parking pass. General parking opens at 11am Fri–Sun; lots close 2am. No RVs/golf carts allowed in standard lots. Preferred Parking ($299) gets you access to the north entrance lot for all 3 days. Regular parking (no pass) is also possible (cheaper, offsite, with shuttle). Expect traffic jams – arrive early. No tailgating or sleeping in vehicles allowed. Note: once parked, don’t exit the lot during “lockdown” hours (Fri–Sun 9pm–2am); re-entry is not allowed. Take note of your lot name/sign or drop a GPS pin on your phone.

Rideshare/Taxi: Designated ride-share pickup/drop zones exist. For example, a Lyft/Uber pickup is at Lot 1D (Ave. 49 & Monroe). Vehicles enter Monroe, and riders follow colored paths to exits. Expect high wait times (midnight–2:30am peak). There are shade tents and charging at the pickup area. Pedestrians must not enter traffic streets (no crossing Monroe/Madison mid-block). A drop-off area for pre-booked car services (limos, shuttles) exists, but these require permits ($3,500 limos, $5,000 shuttles) – not relevant to typical attendees.

Public Transit / Biking: Greyhound has an Indio station, and local SunLine buses serve the area. Amtrak’s desert stations (Palm Springs area) connect by bus. Bicycles are allowed in camping and on nearby roads; racks are provided at camping hub and some venue areas. Walking paths link nearby hotels (Red/Green/Yellow/Blue colored paths). The festival is centrally located near Indio, so local cabs or shuttles (Valley Music Travel) are options.

Road Closures: Major roads around the festival (e.g. Ave. 50/52 and Monroe/Jefferson) will have lane closures and controlled turns on festival days. Follow posted signs. For example, the rideshare directions say to exit at Jefferson and Indio Blvd and enter via Madison or Jefferson. Always obey law enforcement and traffic staff. Getting lost can be easy, so pre-download Google Maps or follow Coachella’s driving directions.

Accommodation Options

Aside from camping, many attendees stay in nearby hotels or rentals. The festival site has no on-site hotel, but Coachella’s official Hotel Packages (through Valley Music Travel) bundle passes, hotel stays, and shuttle.

• On-site/Official Resorts: The Safari Campground includes The Resort at Coachella (luxury tents with hotel-level bedding and service). These go through the official travel partner (prices vary, often $2000+).
• Indio/La Quinta: Local towns have many options. Indio and La Quinta have mid-priced hotels (e.g. Hyland Resort, Fairfield Inn, Hampton Inn) often $200–$400/night on festival weekends. Book well in advance (years in advance is common; by Sep 2025, most close-in hotels were 70–100% booked).
• Palm Springs: Larger city nearby (20-30 min drive) offers resorts and boutique hotels. Avg prices might be $300–$500/night, higher for upscale resorts.
• Vacations Rentals: Services (VRBO/Airbnb) can yield condos or houses. Prices vary widely ($1500–$5000+ for a weekend).
• Tips: Look for packages or hotel-shuttle combos (Valley Music, Expedia). Consider location: closer hotels (within 10 miles) reduce travel hassles. Also check cancellations weekly – some rooms may open if others cancel. Book refundable if unsure.

A map with hotels is available online (search “Indio Hotels Coachella”). Plan for higher costs than usual, since Coachella is peak demand. Sharing rooms with friends can cut per-person cost.

Food & Drink

Coachella’s food program features dozens of vendors offering regional and international cuisine. Notable stands (rotating yearly) include BBQ trucks, vegan fare, gourmet sandwiches, street tacos, and festival classics like burgers and pizza. Dessert shops sell ice cream sandwiches and churros. Bars and drink stands serve cocktails, beer, wine, non-alcoholic drinks, and Coachella’s own kombucha and electrolyte drinks.

Dietary: Vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options are widespread. If you have food restrictions, look for vendor logos (VEG/V/GF). Bringing your own food is not allowed (except baby/medical). Use the Coachella app to find food stalls by category (e.g. “pasta”, “tacos”).

Cashless: Coachella is fully cashless. Vendors accept credit/debit cards and mobile pay (Apple Pay, etc.). Bring a small RFID-blocking wallet if concerned, but simpler: use a contactless card or phone wallet. Plan to pay electronically. Tip jars may exist but also have tap options. Expect transaction times on busy nights.

Water: You cannot bring filled water bottles (glass, metal, or sealed plastic). However, empty plastic water bottles (≤64oz) or hydration packs (empty) are allowed. There are free water refill stations (often called “fill-up stations”) throughout the grounds. Bring a reusable bottle; this saves money and is eco-friendly. Coachella even rewards reusable bottle use in its sustainability program. Bottled water for purchase is also available (~$5 each).

Alcohol: Onsite alcohol is sold at bars, lounges and food stands (beer, wine, cocktails). You must be 21+ with a valid ID to buy or drink. Do not bring any outside alcohol (bottles or cans). Coachella enforces this strictly. Public intoxication is not tolerated – code of conduct forbids excessive impairment. Drink responsibly and stay hydrated.

General Tip: Bring snacks or energy bars (unopened) in case lines are long or your favorites run out. Eating balanced meals and drinking plenty of water helps you last the day. There are also camping markets for food, but prices can be high.

Safety & Security

Coachella prioritizes safety. Security measures include bag checks and magnetometer screenings at all entry gates. For your comfort, only small bags (≤18″ x 13″ x 8.5″) are allowed. Full prohibited list (excerpts): No weapons, drugs, outside food/drinks, large umbrellas, flags/totems, unapproved cameras, or bulky items. (In particular: no glass/metal containers, no selfie sticks or tripods, no coolers.)

The festival’s Code of Conduct reminds attendees to be respectful. Profanity, harassment, public nudity, fighting, or drug dealing may lead to immediate ejection (with no refund). Reporting: If you see something unsafe or see an incident, find any staff or security officer; Coachella also encourages “If you see something, say something”.

Bag Policy: Coachella follows a strict small bag rule (checked dimensions above). Multiple pockets or fanny packs are fine. Clear bags or hydration packs meet rules. All items must be screened. Strollers are allowed for infants/toddlers.

Medical: As above, medical tents are on site. There are also several nurses/EMTs walking around. If an emergency (heat stroke, injury), find a medic station or call security. In case of large emergencies, info will be broadcast on venue screens and via the app.

Extreme Weather: Coachella is hot in April (daytime 90s°F). Heat illness can occur. Tips: wear sunscreen (non-aerosol only), hats, sunglasses. Use water refills often. If overheated, rest in the shade or a medical tent. Check the weather forecast each day. Sandstorms or rain have happened; prepare for wind by securing loose items and eye protection.

COVID/Health: There are no special COVID mandates for 2026. The Health & Safety page states policies will follow current federal, state or local guidelines (which at this point are none). Attendees still assume risk and should be up-to-date on vaccines or tests as they prefer. Sanitation: Hand sanitizer stations are available (bring your own too). If you feel sick, please use medical or isolation areas; Do not attend if symptomatic (flu/covid).

Packing Checklist & Tips

• Essentials: Ticket & ID (ID checks at gates for alcohol), credit/debit cards, health insurance card, phone & charger, portable battery pack (charging lockers exist but bringing a power bank is safer), comfortable shoes, hat/sunglasses, layered clothing (it can cool off at night).
• Sun/Heat: Sunscreen SPF 30+ (non-aerosol), lip balm, electrolyte tablets/powders, cooling towel or small fan. Hydration pack or water bottle to refill. Mist sprays are welcome (plastic personal mist bottles).
• Comfort: Small daypack (fits under 18×13×8½), bandana (dust), earplugs, hand sanitizer, printed schedule. Chairs are not allowed inside venue (but VIP area has some seating). A sealed umbrella is not allowed, but a “parasol” (more like a decorative sunshade) is allowed. Instead, bring a light rain poncho or packable rain jacket in case of drizzle.
• Camping-specific: Tent (if not using ready-set), sleeping bag, pad, camping chair, toiletries (travel size shampoo, toothbrush), flashlight, cooler (if car camping, coolers not allowed in venue, only at camp). For camping, definitely bring sturdy shoes (sand gets everywhere) and a tarp for ground.
• Electronics: Phone charger, portable battery, earbuds (music off-ground?), camera (non-professional), power bank; note power outlets are at some charging stations and near main stage.
• Money: Cards/cash for markets, tips, phone charging ($), etc. Many vendors accept cards, but having a few $1s for tips or cash-only things can be handy. ATMs have high fees.
• Safety: At least one companion should know your plans; set meeting point on map (info kiosks are good landmarks). Take pictures of camp setup so you remember your site. Note parking location (take photo of sign). If arriving as a group, discuss a rendezvous in case phones die.

Arrival Tips: Coachella suggests arriving early on festival mornings for shorter lines and better parking. For headliners, be at the stage early (1–2 hours) to get a good spot. For midday acts, you may shuffle around more. Use the official app for real-time updates and map. The mobile app has a friend-finder feature and schedules.

Photo Ops & Meeting Points: Popular art installations make good meeting points (e.g. Ferris wheel, mirrors, murals). Also info kiosks (they have towers with lights) are easy to spot. The “festival clock” near 12 Peaks is another central spot.

Budget Estimates

Here is a sample 3-day budget for two people attending Weekend 1 (GA vs VIP, including car camping and shuttle):

All prices include fees. GA numbers from and camping. VIP areas typically have slightly higher food/drink costs. This table excludes airfare/hotels.

(For a single Weekend pass, cut totals roughly in half. Tickets for Weekend 2 are ~$100 less per GA pass. Note: these estimates don’t cover travel or campground extras like a locker or festival hoodie.)

Sustainability & Rules

Coachella emphasizes sustainability. It partners with Global Inheritance to promote recycling and education (e.g. interactive exhibits). Attendees are encouraged to carpool (“Carpoochella”) and use public transit. There are on-site recycling bins and composting efforts backstage. Coachella donates unused food and gear: historically tens of thousands of pounds of food and supplies have gone to local charities instead of landfill. Refillable water is stressed (refill stations, prizes for reusable bottles). Expect eco-friendly practices: digital schedules (no paper programs), compostable cups/plates at select stands, and trash sorting teams.

Festival Rules: In addition to prohibited items (above), note: smoking is allowed only in designated areas. Cameras with detachable lenses are banned. All festival policies (including health and bag policies) are on Coachella’s website. Non-compliance can mean eviction with no refund.

Notable Past Moments & 2026 Trends

Coachella’s history includes memorable moments (Beyoncé’s 2018 surprise, Daft Punk’s 2006 set with Nile Rodgers, Madonna’s 2019 show) and genre milestones (first hip-hop headliners in 2018 with Kendrick Lamar and SZA). The 2026 lineup shows some trends: strong representation of Latin and global pop (Karol G, J Balvin, Rauw Alejandro) and K-pop (Bigbang, Taemin) marking the genre’s growing influence. Veteran rock/punk acts (Iggy Pop, Devo) offer nostalgia, while influencers (Addison Rae) and electronic collaborations keep it modern. There is a continued focus on female headliners (Carpenter, Karol G) and diversity. Technology trends include live streaming on YouTube, mobile app interactivity, and social media-driven moments (fans expect Instagrammable art installations and fashion).