Review: Coachella 2024 Brings Cooler Temps and Hot Performances
☆ BY SOPHIE GRAGG ☆
COACHELLA IS OFFICIALLY IN THE BOOKS - and weekend 1 struck the perfect balance. While Friday's scorching temperatures might have been a test, the rest of the weekend offered ideal weather for enjoying the music. Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival, held annually over two weekends in Indio, California, has become a cultural phenomenon. This year was no exception, drawing in a diverse crowd of music lovers for an unforgettable experience.
Beyond the music, this year’s festival boasted a range of activations and booths as well. End Overdose provided festival attendees Narcan access and training, while The New Bar's mocktails and happy hour provided a refreshing option (especially during the hotter days).
The addition of the Quasar stage offered a diverse lineup, but its placement might need some tweaking in future years to create a more cohesive vibe. However, the Sahara tent's new location addressed past crowd control issues and offered a comfortable space to enjoy headliners, complete with a handy viewing hill.
Here's a breakdown of the highlights across the festival's three glorious days:
FRIDAY
Despite the heat, Friday brought the heat musically. Chappell Roan, Faye Webster, and L'Impératrice set the stage for a strong day, while heavy hitters like Lil Uzi Vert, Justice, and Lana Del Rey delivered unforgettable sets. Shoutout to the DoLab for its fresh look, as well as NEIL FRANCES, Peggy Gou, Skepta, BLOND:ISH, and Salute for keeping the party going late into the night.
SATURDAY
Perfect weather arrived just in time for a jam-packed Saturday. Girl Ultra, Erika de Casier, Michael Bibi, and Purple Disco Machine kicked things off, with Kevin Abstract's surprise Dominic Fike appearance adding to the excitement. RAYE, No Doubt (a welcome blast from the past!), Sam Gellaitry (our personal favorite!), Jungle, Ice Spie, Dome Dolla, The Blessed Madonna, and Gesaffelstein all brought their A-game, but the biggest surprise came at the DoLab – a surprise apperance by Billie Eilish, featuring four brand new tracks!
SUNDAY
Cooler temperatures on Sunday had festival-goers reaching for sweatshirts by nightfall, but the music remained hot. DJ Seinfeld, Flight Facilities, Mall Grab, and international stars like AP Dhillon, NAV, and Khruangbin kept the energy high. Shoutout to Doja Cat, Jhené Aiko, Lil Yachty, and our favorite, Barry Can't Swim, for leaving a lasting impression.
This year's Coachella offered a more relaxed atmosphere compared to recent years, both in terms of temperature and overall energy.
