As a first timer to one of America’s biggest music festivals, I wasn’t sure what to expect. Of course Coachella did not disappoint. Indio, CA was flooded with people from all over the world in barely there clothing and a hippy-esque attitude for the weekend. Here are a few recaps of Weekend 1, and or Coachella 2016 in general.
Guests
Not only was 2016 packed with amazing artists from every genre of music, but they brought along their famous equally talented friends as well. Just to name a few: Rihanna and Big Sean graced the stage with Calvin Harris, Kanye West with A$ap Rocky and Jack U, Brendan Urie with Halsey, Ke$ha and Aloe Black with Zedd, Third Eye Blind with the Chainsmokers, Lorde and Sam Smith with Disclosure, Snoop Dogg with Ice Cube, Kristen Wiig with Sia, and many more. The list goes on and on. You definitely get your moneys worth at this festival.
Art/Atmosphere
There is no better place to people watch then the Coachella grounds. Take a seat on the grass and watch dancing trendy dressed humans prance around. The Ferris wheel is a must to ride, and you can see the entire grounds from the top. This year there is also a free interactive fort you can climb for a photo op with friends as well. The Besame Mucho sign was one of the many pieces of art, along with several sculptures. When the sun goes down enjoy all art, lanterns, and palm trees lit up in rainbow colors.
Planning
First things first, you MUST bring a bandana. These are not just fashion statements; the dust is REAL in the desert and will suffocate you. Also, a water bottle and powdered Gatorade is another lifesaver. You must have it empty when you come in, but there are water filling stations around the fields. If there are any artists you want to be semi-close for, you may have to get to the stage about 30 minutes early. It is hard to travel and make it for overlapping artists, but it is possible to do half and half if the stages aren’t too far from one another. If you don’t stay on the campgrounds, try to stay within 5 miles since Uber is about 4 times the normal rate. Those costs can really add up.
It’s already time to start planning Coachella 2017. This is one festival I recommend everyone having on his or her bucket list. Besos Chella 16!
