This year's Coachella festival, a renowned event that attracts both A-list performers and social media enthusiasts, faced numerous challenges beyond the glitz and glamour. From logistical issues to rising food prices and mixed audience reactions, the festival sparked debates about its core purpose—whether it serves artists, attendees, or those watching from afar. Despite these hurdles, emerging bands like The Beaches and TOPS viewed their participation as a significant opportunity to showcase their talents on an international stage.
The festival also highlighted disparities in experiences between established acts, new artists, and fans, raising questions about accessibility, inclusivity, and value for money. While some attendees complained about malfunctioning equipment and exorbitant costs, others celebrated the chance to witness unforgettable performances live or through livestreams.
Logistical Nightmares and Rising Costs
As thousands of fans descended upon Indio, California, for the annual Coachella spectacle, many encountered unforeseen difficulties even before entering the venue. Long waits in parking lots and limited access to restrooms outside the festival grounds left some feeling frustrated and dehumanized. TikTok user @notliss documented her group's 10-hour wait, highlighting how such inconveniences detract from the overall experience despite the hefty price tags associated with attendance.
Beyond entry challenges, financial burdens continued inside the festival itself. Attendees reported skyrocketing prices for food and beverages, with gimmicky items like caviar-topped nuggets priced at $100 and luxury omakase meals costing $350 per person further emphasizing the festival's elite image. Influencer Kristi Cook noted that even staple foods she had previously purchased for $7 now cost closer to $9, while a "tiny sandwich" set her friend back by $27. These escalating costs underscored concerns about Coachella catering primarily to affluent audiences rather than offering equitable enjoyment for all participants.
Artistic Triumphs Amid Mixed Reactions
Despite criticisms, Coachella remained a dream destination for aspiring musicians eager to expand their reach. Canadian bands The Beaches and TOPS expressed excitement about performing at the iconic event, viewing it as both a professional milestone and a platform to connect with diverse crowds. For The Beaches' Jordan Miller, Coachella symbolizes a "bucket list festival," where dreams of playing alongside legendary acts become reality. Meanwhile, TOPS guitarist David Carriere acknowledged the rarity of securing a spot at the prestigious gathering, appreciating the chance to debut new material amid vibrant surroundings.
However, not all aspects of the festival resonated positively with everyone involved. Some performers noticed lukewarm responses from certain segments of the audience, potentially influenced by livestream dynamics that prioritize online engagement over live interaction. Singer Benson Boone humorously critiqued this phenomenon via TikTok, mocking silent crowds unresponsive to guest appearances by legends like Brian May. Yet amidst these critiques, many agreed that discussing Coachella's imperfections forms part of its charm, fostering lively conversations around modern music festivals' evolving roles in contemporary culture. Additionally, technical glitches experienced by lesser-known acts further complicated efforts to deliver flawless performances, prompting calls for improved support systems ensuring fair treatment across all stages.