Indio: Thousands Flock for Coachella Festival Kickoff on Friday

STAFF REPORT

Indio, Calif. – The Empire Polo Club buzzes with excitement as thousands of festival-goers flood in for the start of the highly anticipated Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival. The two-weekend extravaganza promises a diverse lineup of artists, with festivities running from Friday to Sunday and again on April 19-21.

Friday’s lineup boasts performances from Lana Del Rey, Peso Pluma, Lil Uzi Vert, Justice, Ken Carson, and Ben Sterling. On Saturdays, Tyler, The Creator takes the main stage spotlight, accompanied by acts like Ice Spice, Blur, Jungle, Dom Dolla, Bleachers, and Kevin Kaarl. Closing out each weekend on Sundays is the sensational Doja Cat, preceded by J Balvin, Jhene Aiko, Ludmilla, Lil Yachty, John Summit, and DJ Snake.

Exciting additions this year include an extra stage and extended three-hour sets featuring Honey Dijon and Green Velvet on Friday, Michael Bibi on Saturday, and Jamie XX, Floating Points, and Daphni on Sunday, April 14.

For the second weekend, attendees can anticipate performances from Rufus Du Sol, Eric Prydz, Anyma, Diplo, and Mau P, among others.

Adding to the festival’s allure, No Doubt’s impending performance along the 10 Freeway is already sparking curiosity among music lovers.

Preparations for traffic management have been underway since last month, with road closures in effect along Avenue 50 and other specified areas. Travelers are advised of potential delays along designated routes, and law enforcement agencies are on standby to ensure safety throughout the event.

Campers have already begun setting up, while non-campers can secure parking spots in the general area before the venue opens each day. Shuttle services from local hotels provide convenient transportation options for attendees.

As with previous years, law enforcement agencies will maintain a presence to address any issues, though arrests for minor violations are not uncommon.

While desert winds may pose a challenge, weather forecasts suggest minimal disruption to the festivities, with only light rainfall expected.

For detailed festival information and the full lineup of musical acts, visitors can refer to coachella.com/lineup.

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