The first weekend of Coachella 2025 has come to a close, marking another chapter in the festival's storied history. This year's event, which kicked off on April 11, 2025, showcased a vibrant mix of musical performances, celebrity sightings, and standout fashion moments. From the electrifying headlining sets to surprise collaborations, Coachella continues to evolve beyond just music, becoming a cultural phenomenon that encompasses fashion, art, and social commentary.
Lady Gaga's headlining performance on Friday night was nothing short of spectacular. Described as an "all-timer," it featured a stunning array of choreography set against the backdrop of an opera house-like stage. The Mother Monster captivated the audience with her theatricality, wearing an ensemble that included metal crutches and armor designed by Manuel Albarrán, reminiscent of her iconic look from the "Paparazzi" music video. This performance not only erased memories of her previous Coachella appearance in 2017 but solidified her status as a festival legend.
Another highlight of the weekend was Gustavo Dudamel's set with the Los Angeles Philharmonic. Known for his innovative orchestral performances, Dudamel surpassed the high expectations set by previous orchestral acts at Coachella, such as Danny Elfman and Hans Zimmer. His joyful collaboration with pop artists like Maren Morris and LL Cool J brought a new dimension to the festival, showcasing the intersection of classical and contemporary music. Rumors are swirling that next weekend’s performance will feature surprise guests like Dave Grohl and Cynthia Erivo.
Charli XCX's main stage set was also a standout, where she welcomed Troye Sivan for a duet on "Talk Talk" and later brought out Lorde and Billie Eilish for a surprise collaboration. The atmosphere was electric, with fans reveling in the camaraderie of their favorite artists. Meanwhile, Post Malone's headlining set saw him reimagine his catalog with a country twist, backed by a robust eight-piece band. His performance included a mix of pop hits and country-infused arrangements, proving his versatility as an artist.
In the realm of rock, Green Day marked their return to the festival as the first true rock headliners since the pandemic. Their explosive set was complemented by surprise performances from Weezer, who led a singalong of Metallica’s "Enter Sandman," and Jimmy Eat World, who got the crowd moving with "The Middle." The Go-Go's reunited for a nostalgic performance, featuring a guest appearance by Billie Joe Armstrong from Green Day, while the Misfits and The Circle Jerks energized the audience with their punk rock anthems.
Among the breakthrough artists, British singer Lola Young made headlines with her performance, despite experiencing a bout of nerves that led her to vomit on stage. Undeterred, she returned to lead the crowd in a singalong of her hit song "Messy," turning an awkward moment into a defining one. Irish rap group Kneecap brought a fierce energy to their set, while Viagra Boys delivered a high-octane performance that resonated with festival-goers.
As for the fashion, Coachella 2025 did not disappoint. The event became a runway for celebrities, with notable appearances from Timothée Chalamet, Kylie Jenner, and the Biebers. Lisa and Jennie from Blackpink, who had previously headlined the festival, dazzled fans with their solo sets. Lisa's performance featured a glowing costume designed by Asher Levine, while Jennie's outfit combined cowgirl and cyborg elements, making a bold fashion statement.
The festival also saw a surprise appearance from Senator Bernie Sanders, who introduced singer Clairo in his signature blazer and button-down shirt, a stark contrast to the festival's usual attire. Additionally, Addison Rae used her performance to announce the release date of her upcoming album, revealing it on her pink underwear during her set.
Food options at Coachella are always a highlight, and this year’s "Outstanding In The Field" dinner series provided a gourmet experience amidst the festival chaos. Priced at over $350, the dinner featured fresh salads and pork tenderloin, offering a welcome respite for attendees. For those seeking more casual fare, burritos and paella were among the top choices.
New attractions also made their debut, with the Red Bull Mirage standing out as a notable addition. This striking structure housed a pop-up Nobu restaurant, offering exclusive $350 omakase dinners, though many festival-goers were deterred by the price.
As Coachella continues to grow, its cultural impact remains undeniable. This year's festival was not just about the music; it was a celebration of creativity, community, and self-expression. With a lineup that included both seasoned veterans and fresh faces, Coachella 2025 has set a high bar for future festivals.
