Another year of rockin’ bands and energetic fans is once again upon us. Thank God for the Coachella Music and Arts Festival. For some of us, prepping for this three-day experience is a no-brainer but for those of who are attending for the first time there are a few things you’ll need to know.
Yep, it’s hot
This is the desert, people. Coachella is infamous for always landing on the weekend where temperatures first climb to 100 plus degrees. (We’re not sure why--it may be a curse.) Luckily, the popular music fest is a week earlier this year so keep your fingers crossed that infamous oven-like heat doesn’t hit quite as early this year, but be prepared just in case. (We can’t stress this enough). Sure, your brand new silky black jumpsuit may hug whatever curves just right, but seriously reconsider. I opt for the layering method of bathing suit, lose-fitting sundress, oversized straw hat and sunglasses. (If you forget that last little accessory then there’s really no hope for you.) I can’t tell you how many people I saw last year in those adorable, but highly impractical, indie cowboy boots. Sure they’re oh my God, like the cutest thing ever, but you’ll be ready to pass out from the heat and you’re just begging for a terrible tan line. Don't wear anything that even resembles high heels either-save yourself the embarrassment of hobbling around on uneven ground all day. Flip flops or tennis shoes are your best bests. It’s dusty out there too, so be prepared to get dirty.
Burnt to a crisp
SPF it up before heading into the Polo grounds and bring a bottle of along with you. A horrible sunburn has a way of ruining a good time and trust me, you’ll be hating life if you skip it. Other than the two beer gardens, there’s not many places on the grounds to chill in the shade. Heed my warning; I’ve seen too many lobster-esqu music lovers walking around looking absolutely miserable.
Gotta pee?
Unless you have one of those magic VIP wristbands count on your fair share of port-o-potty time. This means one of those handy, dandy mini bottles of hand sanitizer is an absolute must.
Park it
Parking is the biggest pain in the ass. The parking lot is very far from the main entrance and is, for the most part, unmarked. I spent a good 20 minutes last year searching for my car in the dark after the festival. Try to park next to anything that slightly resembles a landmark and make a few mental notes before heading in. In this technical age, however, many festival goers will have gps devices that can mark their last location. Also, be warned that you may spend what seems like forever on idling on Jefferson Street waiting to get into the parking lot. Oh the joy of crowds!
H20
Drink loads of it. This section shouldn’t need an explanation- it’s scary how fast you can dehydrate in the desert. You can’t bring water in, but drink up before the festival and purchase bottled water when inside the grounds. On a positive, earth friendly note come in bearing ten empty water bottles and you'll get a brand new one for free.
Dollar bills y’all
Expect to find foods from all corners of the globe. Last year vegetarian friendly options included falafel, tofu pad Thai and faux burgers. You can also score your fill of coconut milk, pizza and sushi-believe it or not. (I have the pictures to prove it). Yes, food is a bit on the expensive side, but if you want to eat bring cash as the vendors don’t accept plastic. There are a few ATMs around the polo fields but there is always an insane line.
Lodgings
If you’re coming in from out of town and aren’t planning on camping start looking for hotel accommodations ASAP. Hotels sell out pretty quickly for the festival, but if you’re main concern is being close to the festivities search for places in Indio, La Quinta and Palm Desert. After parties are also usually held at some of the big resorts in Palm Springs, so that’s something to consider as well. If you’re camping bring plenty of water and expect your tent to start baking as soon as the sun rises.
Oh, and for all you hipster high rollers who have an extra five grand sitting around--check out the super nice on site luxyury tents.
Backpacks and jackets
You’re going to need some place to stow you camera (nothing with a removable lens,) sunscreen, tickets, ect. Backpacks also come in handy when you receive all those free promotional cds in the admission line. You’ll also probably want to carry a jacket of some sort in with you. Yes, you’ll bake during the day but temperatures here in the desert tend to rapidly drop at night. When you’re freezing at one a.m. but refuse to leave the last set early you’ll thank me.
Beer Me
Sorry kids, beer is only allowed in the two beer gardens, one of which is located near the VIP area by the main stage, the other at the opposite end of the grounds. So if you want to drink expect to do so in a fenced-off area. The upside is, the beer gardens are shaded, so it's a welcome break from the sun. Bring some cash too-last year I recall beer going for about $7 a pop.
Don’t do that thing where you insist on being hoisted up on your boyfriend’s shoulders while (fill band name in here) is playing.
That’s just annoying. ‘Nuff said.
