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Arts & Culture
11 April 2025

Coachella 2025 Kicks Off With Star-Studded Lineup

Lady Gaga, Green Day, and Post Malone headline the iconic festival amid a heat wave warning.

As music lovers flock to California’s Coachella Valley, the iconic arts festival is set to kick off its 2025 edition on Friday, April 11, featuring an electrifying lineup that includes headliners Lady Gaga, Green Day, and Post Malone. With the festival spanning two weekends from April 11-13 and April 18-20, attendees are gearing up for an unforgettable experience under the sun.

However, it’s not just the music that’s heating up; meteorologists are predicting a mini heat wave, with temperatures potentially reaching a scorching 37.8 degrees Celsius on opening day. In light of the sweltering conditions, festival organizers are urging the tens of thousands of expected attendees to stay hydrated and generously apply sunscreen as they navigate the festival grounds, which are notoriously lacking in shade.

Friday’s lineup promises an impressive array of performances, including rapper Missy Elliott, Australian electropop band Parcels, and a rare appearance by British punk ravers The Prodigy. This year, Lady Gaga is particularly anticipated, as she prepares to take the stage after the release of her latest album, Mayhem. The pop icon has teased her performance, vowing a “massive night of chaos.” “Can’t wait to hear you all singalong and dance dance DANCE till we drop,” she expressed on social media when the lineup was announced.

Another exciting performer on Friday is South African star Tyla, who is returning to Coachella after an injury forced her to miss the 2024 festival. “Had many opportunities to go but swore to myself that the first time I go to Coachella, imma be performing… and look now!” she posted on X, reflecting her excitement.

Additionally, Blackpink’s Lisa will grace the stage on Friday night, marking her first solo performance at Coachella after previously performing with her bandmates. Fans can expect an exhilarating show from the K-pop sensation.

The festival continues its impressive lineup on Saturday, April 12, with Charli XCX expected to light up the stage, followed by a special guest slot from Travis Scott after Green Day’s performance. The iconic rock band, known for their energetic shows, is set to headline the Saturday night lineup, with frontman Billie Joe Armstrong asserting, “In this world gone sideways we know one thing for certain — rock ‘n’ roll is forever, and its spirit is needed now more than ever.”

Another highlight of Saturday is the Venezuelan band Rawayana, who will play a top slot, along with celebrity conductor Gustavo Dudamel leading the Los Angeles Philharmonic in a sunset concert. This performance will mark a significant moment in Coachella history, as it will be the first time a major professional orchestra has played at the festival, following orchestral showcases by film composers like Danny Elfman and Hans Zimmer in previous years.

Sunday, April 13, is set to be another star-studded day, with hip-hop powerhouse Megan Thee Stallion headlining the main stage, followed by Post Malone, who will close out the festival. Ty Dolla $ign is also scheduled to perform, along with French duo Polo & Pan, who are known for their tropicalia-infused electro sounds. German electronic pioneers Kraftwerk will also be part of the lineup, adding to the festival’s diverse musical offerings.

In a return to its rock roots, Coachella 2025 will feature a variety of rock acts, including The Go-Gos, the original Misfits, Jimmy Eat World, and cult punk legends the Circle Jerks. This shift comes as the festival has leaned more towards pop in recent years, but organizers are excited to bring back the spirit of rock music.

For those unable to attend in person, the festival will offer live streams of performances, including Lady Gaga’s set, which is scheduled to start at 11:10 PM on both Fridays, April 11 and April 18. Fans can expect a thrilling show that will likely feature tracks from her entire career, including new music from Mayhem.

Tickets for both weekends of the festival are still available, but fans are encouraged to act quickly as they are expected to sell out fast. With such a stellar lineup and the return of beloved artists, Coachella 2025 is shaping up to be one of the most memorable festivals yet.

As the festival approaches, excitement continues to build. Whether it’s the heat of the California sun or the anticipation of seeing favorite artists perform, Coachella is set to deliver an unforgettable weekend of music and memories.