Coachella 2025’s opening weekend was marred by severe logistical failures, particularly affecting car campers. Attendees faced up to 12-hour delays entering the Indio, California venue, with temperatures soaring to 102°F. The lack of basic amenities, such as restrooms and water, exacerbated the situation, leading to comparisons with the infamous Fyre Festival. Festival-goers reported cars overheating, running out of gas, and people relieving themselves in the open due to the absence of facilities .

The disorganization extended to traffic management, with reports of inadequate staffing and communication. Many attendees, some of whom had paid over $600 for tickets, expressed frustration over the poor planning and lack of response from organizers. Despite featuring major headliners like Lady Gaga, Green Day, and Post Malone, the negative initial experience overshadowed the music for many .

Social media platforms were flooded with complaints, and some staff were reportedly overwhelmed, with instances of dehydration and disorientation. As of now, Coachella organizers have not publicly addressed the growing criticism.

For a visual account of the situation, here’s a news report detailing the traffic jam experienced by attendees: