The Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival has once again mesmerized music enthusiasts with its unique blend of pop culture. Despite scorching temperatures during the opening weekend at the Empire Polo Club in Indio, Calif., the festival showcased a variety of unforgettable moments that left attendees in awe. From Lady Gaga’s extravagant rock opera performance to Bernie Sanders’ surprise appearance, and from Post Malone’s country-infused set to Gustavo Dudamel and the Los Angeles Philharmonic backing up LL Cool J, Coachella delivered a truly eclectic experience.
Here are some of the standout moments from this year’s Coachella festival:
Friday
Lady Gaga’s Theatrical Performance: Lady Gaga wowed the audience with a two-hour spectacle featuring 20 songs and multiple costume changes. Her high-concept pop performance on Friday night captivated the crowd, despite the lack of a discernible storyline.
Missy Elliott’s Energetic Set: Missy Elliott brought her iconic hits to life on the main stage, showcasing her rap prowess and infectious energy. Her performance was a celebration of her legacy in the hip-hop world.
Lisa’s Solo Star Turn: Lisa of Blackpink took the Coachella stage by storm with a mesmerizing solo performance, demonstrating her vocal prowess and stage presence as a rising pop star.
The Marías’ Snowy Performance: The Marías created a magical atmosphere on stage, complete with faux snow during their performance of "Lejos De Ti." The band’s emotional ballads captivated the audience and showcased their versatility as musicians.
Benson Boone’s Queen Tribute: Benson Boone paid homage to Queen with a stunning rendition of "Bohemian Rhapsody," accompanied by Queen guitarist Brian May and a gospel choir. The performance was a highlight of the evening.
Nobu x Red Bull Mirage Experience: The Nobu pop-up at Coachella offered a luxurious dining experience with open-air booths, bottle service, and a unique menu curated by chef Nobu Matsuhisa.
Saturday
Travis Scott’s Spectacular Set: Travis Scott delivered a visually stunning performance, showcasing elaborate stagecraft and high-energy rap skills. His return to Coachella was a triumphant display of mastery and creativity.
Green Day’s Rocking Performance: Green Day thrilled the audience with their timeless pop-punk hits, engaging the crowd with call-and-response routines and socially conscious lyric changes.
Bernie Sanders’ Surprising Speech: Senator Bernie Sanders made a cameo appearance at Coachella, urging the audience to stay engaged and informed about the future of America. His message resonated with the festival-goers.
Post Malone’s Country-Infused Set: Post Malone closed out the weekend with a country-flavored performance, reimagining his popular songs in a down-home style. His set at Coachella showcased his versatility as an artist.
Gustavo Dudamel and the L.A. Philharmonic’s Diverse Set: The Los Angeles Philharmonic, led by Gustavo Dudamel, delivered a diverse and captivating performance with various guest artists, ranging from Zedd to LL Cool J. The fusion of classical music and contemporary pop was a highlight of the festival.
‘Yo Gabba Gabba!’ Fun: Characters from the children’s TV series "Yo Gabba Gabba!" brought a nostalgic and fun-filled performance to the Mojave Tent, delighting fans of all ages with their interactive show.
Sunday
Post Malone’s Country Vibes: Post Malone continued his country-inspired performance on Sunday night, charming the crowd with twangy renditions of his hits. His unique take on pop-rap songs delighted the audience.
Ty Dolla Sign’s Prison Yard Theme: Ty Dolla Sign transformed the Sahara Tent into a prison yard setting, creating a visually striking performance complete with fellow rap artists and engaging visuals.
Megan Thee Stallion’s Star-Studded Set: Megan Thee Stallion’s energetic performance included a surprise appearance by Queen Latifah, adding a nostalgic touch to the show and celebrating influential female rappers.
Jennie from Blackpink’s Eclectic Set: Jennie of Blackpink showcased her solo career with an eclectic set that went beyond traditional pop, highlighting her versatility as an artist.
Junior H and Peso Pluma’s Emotional Collaboration: Junior H and Peso Pluma joined forces for a heartfelt performance on the main stage, delivering a touching rendition of "Luna" that resonated with the audience.
Meute’s High-Energy Show: Meute, a German marching band playing techno music, delivered a lively performance despite the scorching heat, captivating the crowd with their unique musical style.
Chris Lake’s Campground Dance Party: DJ Chris Lake kicked off the festival’s pregame with a lively dance party at the campground, boosting the morale of weary festival attendees and setting the stage for an unforgettable weekend.
Coachella 2025 promises to continue the tradition of blending diverse genres, captivating performances, and memorable experiences for music fans from around the world. The festival’s ability to push boundaries and create magical moments ensures its status as one of the most anticipated music events each year.