Coachella 2025 came in like a sandstorm and left behind a trail of unforgettable performances, surprise appearances, bold fashion moments, and viral chaos. As thousands flocked to the California desert once again, the festival cemented its reputation not just as a music event, but as a full-scale cultural phenomenon. From genre-defying headliners to Insta-breaking fashion to unexpected collaborations that lit up the stage, weekend one of this year’s Coachella had everything—and then some. If you weren’t there, here’s what you missed (and why your FOMO is totally justified)
The weekend kicked off with a bang as headliner Doja Cat delivered a genre-blending spectacle that spanned pop, rap, rock, and even a bit of metal. Decked out in a futuristic warrior look, she performed atop a towering chrome platform while pyrotechnics and robotic dancers pulsed in sync to every beat. Her set included hits like “Paint the Town Red” and “Woman,” but it was her punk-infused remix of “Say So” that had the crowd screaming in disbelief. Doja isn’t just pushing boundaries anymore—she’s completely redrawing them
Billie Eilish returned to the Coachella stage with a performance that felt both massive and intimate. Known for her haunting vocals and emotional depth, Billie transformed the main stage into a shadowy dreamscape. She debuted several tracks from her upcoming album, giving fans a first taste of her evolving sound—more cinematic, more raw, and undeniably magnetic. A surprise appearance by Finneas added to the emotional weight of the set, especially during a stripped-back performance of “Happier Than Ever” that had the audience in goosebumps
One of the most buzzed-about performances came from surprise guest Bad Bunny, who joined Rosalía mid-set for an electrifying rendition of their new duet. Their chemistry was off the charts, and the performance sparked immediate social media frenzy. Fans erupted as they danced across the stage with Latin flair, flanked by flamenco dancers and a firework-filled finale. It wasn’t just a moment—it was a movement, reaffirming Latin music’s massive influence at this year’s festival
But Coachella 2025 wasn’t just about the music—it was about the spectacle. Tyla’s much-anticipated debut stole the show on Saturday night with a performance that felt like a high-fashion music video brought to life. Channeling her South African roots, she mixed amapiano rhythms with choreography inspired by traditional dance, all while dressed in a crystal-encrusted gown that shimmered under the desert lights. Her surprise Aaliyah cover had older millennials tearing up and Gen Z scrambling to Shazam
Meanwhile, the Sahara Tent—known for its pulsating EDM acts—got a soulful makeover when Trixie Mattel turned the dance floor into a glittering disco dream. With her bubblegum DJ set and a stage glowing pink, the drag superstar spun remixed classics, from ABBA to Beyoncé, and had the entire crowd moving in heels, sequins, and pure joy. It was equal parts rave and drag show, and it reminded everyone that Coachella is also about freedom, play, and unapologetic expression
Fashion-wise, the It-girls and influencers did not disappoint. Hailey Bieber showed up in a minimalist Saint Laurent look, effortlessly fusing high fashion with desert grunge. Meanwhile, Gabriella Karefa-Johnson made headlines in a statement-making ensemble that combined couture with festival ease, complete with a towering headpiece that turned heads all the way to the back row. Crochet was big, metallics were everywhere, and retro-futuristic sunglasses dominated the accessory game. If 2024 leaned boho, 2025 was all about celestial chic
Even the food and art installations had a moment. A giant kinetic sculpture named “EchoBloom” stood at the heart of the festival grounds, pulsing in color and rhythm with the music like a living organism. Meanwhile, festival-goers indulged in upscale bites from pop-ups like Nobu on the Desert and vegan Korean BBQ trucks. Between sets, fans recharged with matcha popsicles, craft cocktails, and of course, endless cold brew
Another unforgettable moment came during Lana Del Rey’s surprise guest spot with The 1975, where they performed a slow, dreamy duet of “Somebody Else.” The crowd went still—literally thousands holding their breath—as Lana’s smoky vocals wove through Matty Healy’s raw intensity. It was the kind of magical Coachella moment that turns into legend overnight, the kind people who were there will recount for years
Of course, Coachella 2025 wasn’t without its chaotic moments. A brief but dramatic sandstorm on Saturday night delayed several sets, leading to viral videos of people holding down tents and face masks becoming more fashion necessity than statement. But in true festival spirit, attendees rallied, danced through the dust, and created an impromptu rave in the shaded dome areas
By the end of weekend one, it was clear that Coachella 2025 had outdone itself yet again. It wasn’t just a gathering of top-tier musicians or a showcase of cutting-edge fashion—it was a celebration of culture, creativity, and connection. The most memorable moments weren’t just on the main stage—they were in the energy, the unfiltered emotion, and the collective joy radiating from the crowd. As weekend two approaches, the bar has been set sky-high. And if history tells us anything, it’s that Coachella is just getting started.