Every April an arid landscape in Indio, California is transformed into a desert rave. Originally inspired by a 1993 Pearl Jam performance at the Empire Polo Club, the first Coachella took place in 1999, headlined by Beck and Rage Against the Machine. By the mid ’00s it was a globally recognised brand and in 2012 it expanded to two weekends. Coachella remains one of the world’s most influential music festivals, so much so that it’s hard to avoid all the press and social media coverage it attracts — good, bad, and ugly. Whether it’s stage injuries, technical meltdowns, or political protests, you’re bound to hear about it — and all the think pieces that follow. The reason the festival remains a key moment in the entertainment calendar is in part to do with its line-up, which often includes some of the biggest acts on earth — Beyoncé, Lady Gaga — as well as its knack for spotlighting up-and-coming talent. As a result, it attracts some 125,000 attendees each day and sets the tone for festival culture worldwide. Line-up speculation for 2026 is already swirling, but one thing is for sure — next April, all eyes, ears and cameras will be ready to capture the next viral Coachella moment. RIA HYLTON
