How to Do Coachella 2025: The Ultimate Guide to the Festival of the Year

Discover how to plan and enjoy Coachella 2025 like a pro! From getting tickets and choosing outfits to exploring stages and after-parties, this ultimate guide covers everything you need for the full festival experience. Perfect for first-timers and returning fans alike.

CitizenOne Published: April 9, 2025 | Updated: April 26, 2025 4 min read

Are you ready to experience the music, fashion, and vibes of Coachella 2025? Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned fest-goer, this guide will help you plan the ultimate trip to one of the most iconic festivals in the world.

What is Coachella?

Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival is an annual event held in Indio, California. It features a diverse lineup of musical artists, large-scale art installations, and trendy festival fashion. The event usually spans two weekends in April—this year it’s happening April 11-13 and April 18-20, 2025.

Step-by-Step: How to Do Coachella 2025 Right

1. Get Your Tickets Early

Tickets sell out fast. Register for the Coachella advance sale on their official website. You can choose between General Admission (GA), VIP, and shuttle passes.

Pro Tip: Sign up for the Coachella newsletter and follow @coachella on Instagram for ticket release dates and updates.

2. Book Your Accommodation

Indio hotels fill up quickly. Consider these options:

Camping at Coachella: On-site camping info
Hotels nearby: Palm Springs, La Quinta, and Indian Wells are great choices.
Airbnb: Book early for better rates and options.

Budget Hack: Split a large Airbnb with friends to save money.

3. Plan Your Outfits

Coachella is as much about fashion as it is about music. Think boho, vintage, and bold colors.

Hashtags to inspire your wardrobe: #CoachellaOutfit #FestivalFashion2025 #BohoVibes

4. Pack Smart

Must-haves for your Coachella survival kit:

Hydration pack or refillable water bottle
Portable phone charger
Sunscreen & sunglasses
Comfortable shoes
Light layers for hot days and cool nights

5. Create Your Festival Schedule

The lineup is typically released a few months before the event. Use the Coachella app to customize your schedule and get real-time updates.

6. Know the Festival Rules

Don’t bring prohibited items like drones, large backpacks, or outside food/drinks. Full list available here.

7. Stay Safe & Connected

Choose a meet-up spot with friends in case you get separated.
Use a portable Wi-Fi device or set your phone to low power mode.
Take breaks, hydrate, and pace yourself.

How to Enjoy the Festival to the Fullest

Young woman dancing at Coachella 2025 in front of the iconic Ferris wheel, wearing a boho outfit with a crochet top and ruffle skirt, enjoying the sunset vibes at the festival.

1. Arrive Early, Stay Late

Get to the venue early to explore and secure good spots for popular sets. Stay late to catch surprise guests and soak in the iconic desert sunsets.

2. Explore Beyond the Main Stage

Some of the most memorable performances happen at the smaller stages. Wander off the beaten path and discover rising artists or niche genres that might surprise you.

3. Engage with the Art

Take time to walk through the large-scale art installations. Many are interactive, perfect for unique photos and meaningful moments.

4. Chill Zones & Lounges

Check out the shaded lounges, sponsored tents, and chill-out zones for relaxation and freebies. It’s a great place to recharge physically and mentally.

5. Try Something New

From kombucha on tap to global street food, Coachella is a sensory buffet. Try something outside your comfort zone—it’s part of the adventure.

6. Dance Like No One’s Watching

Let loose! Whether you’re at the Sahara tent or dancing under the stars, Coachella is the perfect place to express yourself.

7. Be Present

Put your phone down once in a while. Live in the moment. Make eye contact. Feel the bass. Appreciate the crowd energy.

8. Attend Day & Night Events

During the day, enjoy yoga sessions, silent discos, and brand pop-ups. As the sun sets, the energy shifts—nighttime brings vibrant light shows, surprise performances, and after-hours parties.

9. Join Brand Activations and Giveaways

Explore sponsored areas like the Heineken House or American Express Lounge. They often offer giveaways, exclusive merch, shaded lounges, and live DJ sets.

10. Capture the Experience

Use the magic hour light for your photos. Capture videos of your favorite sets. Don’t forget the Ferris wheel for the ultimate Coachella Instagram moment.

Bonus Tips for an Unforgettable Coachella

Arrive early for popular acts to get a good spot.
Explore the art installations and hidden spaces.
Try the food trucks—from vegan bites to gourmet burgers.
Capture content for your socials with trending hashtags: #Coachella2025 #DesertVibes #MusicFestivalLife #CoachellaExperience

Final Thoughts

Coachella is more than a festival—it’s a cultural phenomenon. With the right planning, you can turn it into the trip of a lifetime. Bookmark this guide, share it with your squad, and start counting down the days.