Coachella 2026 Lineup Is Here—And Y’all Ain’t Ready

By Rachel Thompson
September 17, 2025 • Fact checked by Dumb Little Man
Dust off your boots, babes. Coachella 2026 is officially happening, and if the Coachella 2026 lineup is any sign, this is going to be one for the history books. Not to be dramatic, but this could actually be the most chaotic, glitter-filled, emotionally unstable music and arts festival we’ve ever seen — and yes, that’s a compliment. As with every year's festival, the tradition continues to set the standard for unforgettable experiences.
Every year, Coachella gives us something to scream about, whether it’s a jaw-dropping surprise guest or a lineup twist no one saw coming. But next year’s edition? It’s giving everything. The anticipation for next year's edition is already building, with fans eager to see which artists will headline and what surprises are in store.
Pop icons, rap gods, indie angels, and international superstars are coming together in the California desert to create three days of absolute music madness — times two, because of course we’re doing two weekends again. As always, the new year marks the traditional time for lineup announcements and festival planning, making this moment even more exciting.
Whether you’re a festival veteran who knows how to finesse your way to the front row, or a wide-eyed newbie just hoping to survive the porta-potty situation, this guide is your full breakdown of everything to expect from Coachella 2026. We’re talking full lineup tea, performance predictions, and a whole lot of glittery opinions. Among all the major festivals, Coachella stands out for its star-studded lineups and unforgettable moments. So grab a snack, start your group chat, and let’s go deep into the desert together. Because ready or not, the 2026 lineup is here — and no, y’all ain’t ready.
When and Where Is Coachella 2026?
Before we lose ourselves in screaming about surprise guests or glittery outfits, let’s start with the basics. You need to know when and where to bring your full Coachella fantasy to life. Coachella 2026 is going down in its usual location — the sunny, sandy Indio, California, at the heart of the legendary Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival site. This dreamy location is a vibe all its own, with swaying palm trees, desert air, and enough photo ops to keep your Instagram busy for months. The festival will take place across two massive weekends:
- Weekend 1: April 10–12, 2026
- Weekend 2: April 17–19, 2026
So yes, you get two chances to witness the chaos, magic, and musical greatness. Whether you go Weekend 1 for the raw buzz and celeb sightings, or Weekend 2 for a slightly less chaotic version of the same dream, you’re guaranteed an unforgettable experience.
Tickets go on sale Friday, and listen to me — if you’re serious about going, get your devices ready. You’ll need fast fingers, reliable Wi-Fi, and maybe a backup plan (or three). These passes sell out faster than you can say “main stage glitter cannon.” Once you’re in, the festival grounds will greet you with massive art installations, an endless sea of stylish humans, stages that feel like alien spaceships, and more gourmet food trucks than you knew existed. It’s not just a music festival — it’s a cultural phenomenon.
The Headliners Are WILD (Yes, All-Caps Necessary)
The full lineup for Coachella 2026 was announced in September 2025 and it brought headliners that no one saw coming—and yet, it feels so right. Say hello to Justin Bieber, Karol G, and Sabrina Carpenter as the headliners, and yes, the lineup really popped off this year. These artists have headlined major festivals before or are now headlining Coachella 2026.
- Justin Bieber is making his big return, and we are not okay. It’s not just nostalgia, it’s full-blown Bieber Fever 2.0. We’re talking chart-topping hits, deep cuts for the die-hard fans, and hopefully one or two surprise guests. (Give us a Hailey cameo or we riot.)
- The Colombian superstar Karol G is headlining for the first time — and honestly? It’s about time. Historically speaking, Karol G will be the first Latina artist to headline Coachella. The artist's chart-topping albums and global influence have made her a must-see act. Her recent albums have dominated the charts, further cementing her headliner status, and her global tour proved she can turn any stage into a glittery Latin dance party. You better believe she’s bringing backup dancers, confetti cannons, and diva-level drama.
- And now let’s talk Sabrina Carpenter. Yes, she’s officially entered her Headliner Era. The internet’s favorite pop fairy has been on a tear lately. Her vocals? Flawless. Her stage presence? Magnetic. And her viral moments? Literally every week. Sabrina’s gone from Disney darling to full-fledged pop icon, and her set is expected to be pure sparkle and sass with a sprinkle of emotional wreckage.
These three names alone make this year’s music and arts festival a must-attend. And we’re only just getting started.
The Main Pop Girlies Are Taking Over
Listen. If 2025 was the year of underground cool kids and moody sad boys, Coachella 2026 said, “Not today, darling. We’re bringing the pop princesses back.” And bring them back they did. This year’s lineup is a full-blown Pop Girl Renaissance. It’s giving eyeliner, rhinestones, choreo, and scream-worthy hooks. We’ve already got Sabrina Carpenter headlining, which is enough to make anyone dust off their sparkly crop tops. But the girl power doesn’t stop there.
- Let’s not forget KATSEYE, the global girl group that’s been trending everywhere since their debut. These six queens are the definition of next-gen pop. With members from around the world, they’ve got the multilingual vocals, precision choreography, and visuals that break the internet. They’re still fresh, but don’t mistake that for inexperience — their stage game is polished, powerful, and impossible to look away from.
- PinkPantheress is stepping into her Coachella 2026 moment as one of the most unique pop girlies on the lineup. With her signature whispery vocals, Y2K nostalgia, and glitchy, hyperpop-meets-garage beats, she’s bringing a cool-girl energy that’s both laid-back and electrifying.
- Also joining the lineup? Addison Rae — TikTok star turned surprisingly solid pop performer. Say what you want, but Addison’s been grinding in the studio and giving us Y2K fantasy with every release. Her set is bound to be a glittery, nostalgia-drenched party. Think choreo-heavy, selfie-worthy, and full of songs that make you want to dance and scream-cry at the same time. Whether you’re a diehard fan or a curious skeptic, one thing’s for sure: you won’t be bored.
This is the year the girls take over. And we’re here for every single minute of it. Get your rhinestones, your platforms, and your best scream-singing voice ready. The pop girlies have entered the chat — and they’re not leaving quietly.
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Artists Who Are Back Again
We love a comeback, especially when it’s from artists who already know how to tear down the Coachella tent with their presence. The 2026 lineup has a handful of repeat performers, and honestly, they’re the pros we trust to bring the energy.
- First up, Justin Bieber. He’s done surprise appearances before, but this is his time to own the night as a full-blown headliner. His last time at Coachella was a cultural reset, and now he’s set to do it all over again with even more experience and an even bigger fanbase. It’s a redemption arc, a victory lap, and a pop spectacle all rolled into one.
- David Byrne is another beloved returnee. His previous Coachella set was one-part concert, one-part performance art, and ten parts unexpected magic. People still talk about it. This year, he’s ready to get weird again — and we can’t wait.
- Also returning is Young Thug, who always brings chaos, couture, and crowd control. Every time he steps on stage, it’s a full mood. You never know if he’ll wear a tulle skirt, bring out a surprise guest, or freestyle over a violin.
- FKA twigs is making her triumphant return to Coachella 2026 after unexpectedly dropping out of the 2025 lineup, and fans are ready for redemption. Known for her avant-garde visuals, ethereal vocals, and hypnotic stage presence, her return promises to be both emotional and electric—like a cinematic art piece set under the desert sky.
Ariana Grande, who headlined Coachella in 2019, set a new standard for pop performances at the festival and remains one of the most significant artists in Coachella history. Returning artists like these are the beating heart of the festival. They know how to read the crowd, take risks, and turn a set into a full-blown spiritual experience. Expect nothing less.
First-Timers at Coachella 2026
Let’s hear it for the first-timers. These are the artists who may not have graced the Coachella stage before, but are about to leave their mark with a capital M. And let me tell you right now, the new kids did not come to play.
- Ethel Cain is easily one of the most anticipated debut performers. Her music feels like it was made for the desert — ethereal, raw, and deeply emotional. With haunting ballads and small-town gothic vibes, her performance is going to feel more like a séance than a set. Get ready to cry, sway, and probably text your ex.
- Teddy Swims brings a whole different kind of energy. His soulful rasp, bluesy hooks, and heartfelt lyrics will have the crowd swaying like it’s Sunday morning church. First-time or not, he’s about to command attention.
- Also debuting: Wet Leg with their cheeky lyrics and offbeat charm, and Alex G with lo-fi melodies that might just hypnotize the crowd.
- Finally, KATSEYE is also making their Coachella debut this year, and the hype is very real. With members from across the world and vocals in multiple languages, they’re representing a new wave of global pop. For a debut, it’s bold—but that’s exactly why everyone’s watching.
Just like when FKA Twigs made her highly anticipated festival debut and captivated audiences with her unique style and artistry, this year’s first-timers are set to deliver unforgettable performances. Fresh to the scene, yes — but they’re all bringing main character energy. And we are so here for it.
The Indie Girls and Alt Kings Are Out in Full Force
If you came to Coachella 2026 for the glitter, cool. But if you came for the feelings? Then the indie squad has your emotional breakdowns fully covered. This year’s lineup is giving big energy to small-label darlings and alt-pop heavyweights, and honestly? It’s the balance we love to see.
- First up, Ethel Cain. Yes, she’s a first-timer, but she’s also an instant indie legend. Her set will be a soft, moody sucker punch to the chest. With haunting lyrics, dreamy Americana vibes, and slow builds that explode into chaos, her performance might be the most intimate moment of the festival. Imagine crying under the desert sky while she sings about religious trauma and small-town ghosts. That’s the Coachella therapy package.
- Teddy Swims brings a whole different kind of energy. His soulful rasp, bluesy hooks, and heartfelt lyrics will have the crowd swaying like it’s Sunday morning church. First-time or not, he’s about to command attention. He’s indie soul with a twist of pop realness — and you’re gonna feel every note in your chest.
- Alex G and Wet Leg both bring their own flavor of indie rebellion. Whether it’s lo-fi melancholy, cheeky punk, or spoken-word brilliance, these artists are here to wreck us emotionally and leave us grateful for it.
- Lykke Li, another notable indie artist, has also graced festival stages with her emotive performances and recent releases, adding to the diverse lineup.
- Nine Inch Nails, an iconic alternative act, are known for their memorable festival performances and legendary status in the alt/indie scene.
They might not be headlining, but they’re definitely delivering.
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Asian Artists Are Finally Getting the Spotlight They Deserve
Coachella 2026 is finally showing love to Asian artists the way it should. From genre-defying legends to sparkly new icons, the representation this year is a vibe, a victory, and a very overdue celebration.
- Starting strong: BIGBANG. If they take the stage (which all signs are pointing toward), we’re about to witness K-pop royalty show the newbies how it’s done. Their legacy is deep. Their performances are theatrical. Their fanbase is massive. Basically, if they go live, the main stage might spontaneously combust.
- Also gracing the festival grounds is Taemin, who is arguably one of the most captivating solo performers on the planet. His vocals? Dreamy. His choreography? Flawless. His ability to control a crowd? Absolutely terrifying in the best way. He’s not just performing — he’s casting spells.
- Representing Southeast Asia with pride, we’ve got BINI, the first Filipino act to ever grace the stage, with synchronized moves sharper than your winged eyeliner. Their energy is contagious, their visuals are vibrant, and their vocals? Seriously underrated. They are Filipinos for a reason. They’re out here putting P-pop on the global map.
This year, Coachella said yes to Asian excellence. About time.
The Rap Game Is Strong This Year
Of course, it wouldn’t be Coachella without a little (okay, a lot) of lyrical fire. The rap lineup this year? Loaded. Whether you love gritty verses or festival-friendly bangers, the 2026 lineup is giving hip-hop heads something to celebrate.
- Young Thug returns with his signature unpredictability. The fashion? Outrageous. The beats? Fire. The vibe? Chaos in couture. Expect surprise guests, high-energy stage dives, and possibly a gospel choir — who knows? It’s Thugger.
- Central Cee is bringing UK drill vibes straight to the Coachella 2026 stage, and it's about to get rowdy. Known for his slick bars, laid-back flow, and viral hits like “Doja,” he's representing London with style and swagger. His presence adds international edge to the rap lineup, and you already know the crowd's going to lose it when that beat drops.
- Little Simz isn’t just performing at Coachella 2026—she’s about to school the entire desert on what rap excellence looks like. One minute she’s spitting raw truth that makes you rethink your life choices, the next she’s got the whole crowd bouncing like it’s the hottest block party in Indio. Simz walks on stage with cool confidence, delivers like it’s effortless, and leaves you wondering why anyone else even bothered showing up. In short? She’s about to own the festival—no contest.
- And let’s not forget Sexyy Red, delivering hilarious, unapologetic realness with every bar. She’s raw, she’s loud, and she’s bringing full Bad B energy to the festival.
This year, hip-hop isn’t just invited. It’s taking over.
How to Get Your Golden Ticket: Coachella 2026 Ticket Info
Let’s be real: scoring tickets to Coachella 2026 is basically a competitive sport. If you want to be part of this year’s festival madness, you’ll need to be quick, clever, and a little bit lucky. Here’s how to make sure you don’t miss out.
Tickets for Coachella 2026 officially go on sale Friday, September 19, at 1 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time. Pro tip: set your alarms, clear your schedule, and have every device you own ready to go. Fans can register for access to the sale right now on the Coachella website—don’t sleep on this step, because registration is your best shot at getting in before tickets vanish.
Tickets for Coachella 2026 are on sale now, with general admission starting at $549 for Weekend Two and $649 for Weekend One, while VIP tickets for Coachella 2026 cost $1,199 for Weekend Two and $1,299 for Weekend One. Whether you’re planning to go all out or keep it classic, there’s an option for every kind of festival-goer. For the latest updates, follow Coachella on social media and sign up for their email newsletter—trust, you don’t want to miss any last-minute ticket drops or insider info.
Remember, these tickets go fast—like, blink-and-you-miss-it fast. So get your crew together, get your browsers ready, and prepare for the sale of the year. The desert is calling, and Coachella 2026 is waiting for you.
The Ultimate Coachella Experience: Beyond the Music
Sure, the Coachella 2026 lineup is stacked with icons like Justin Bieber, Karol G, Sabrina Carpenter, and Addison Rae, but this festival is so much more than just a killer setlist. The real magic of Coachella happens in the spaces between the music—where art, food, and community come together to create the ultimate desert escape.
This year, the festival grounds will be transformed into a wonderland of interactive art installations, mind-blowing visual displays, and immersive experiences that will have your Instagram alongside everyone else’s blowing up all weekend. Hungry? Get ready to feast on the best of California’s culinary scene, with food and drink vendors serving up everything from gourmet bites to late-night snacks. And if you’re rolling deep, check out the large group camping options—perfect for squads of 10 or more who want to make the most of every moment under the stars.
Whether you’re chilling in the shade, exploring the latest art, or dancing until sunrise, Coachella 2026 is designed to give you the best experience possible. From headline acts on the main stage to surprise pop-ups and secret sets, every corner of the festival is packed with adventure. So grab your tickets, rally your friends, and get ready for a weekend in the desert you’ll never forget. This is more than a music festival—it’s a full-on celebration of life, art, and the power of music to bring us all together. See you at Coachella!
Final Thoughts From Your Festival Fairy Godmother
Okay, bestie. If you’re still reading, that means you’re either deeply invested or already mentally packing your fanny pack. Either way, we love that for you. Coachella 2026 isn’t just a music and arts festival. It’s a movement. A full-blown glitter-coated, genre-blending, boundary-breaking cultural moment. With Sabrina Carpenter, Justin Bieber, and Karol G leading the charge, and a stunning range of pop girlies, rappers, indie gems, and global icons right behind them — this is the lineup of the decade.
You want K-pop? Done. Sad indie bangers and chaotic trap? You already know. This lineup isn’t safe — it’s spicy. It’s bold. It’s serving. So now… grab those passes, start a group chat, lock in your Airbnb, and begin your spiritual prep. Coachella isn’t ready for you — but you? You’re so ready for Coachella 2026.
We’ll see you in Indio under the stars, screaming your lungs out and covered in sweat and glitter. As it should be.
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Rachel Thompson
Rachel Thompson is a pop culture columnist and entertainment writer known for her spicy takes and sharp sense of humor. With a degree in communications and a decade of reporting experience, Rachel offers behind-the-scenes insight on celebrity news, reality TV scandals, and viral social media drama. Her writing is equal parts sass and substance—giving readers the lowdown on what happened, why it matters, and how it reflects today’s cultural shifts. She covers everything from red carpet controversies to influencer fallouts, always with a punchy, engaging tone that keeps readers hooked. Rachel has appeared on pop culture podcasts and has contributed to digital platforms that thrive on trending topics. When she’s not analyzing the latest celebrity beef, she’s deep-diving into nostalgic Y2K media or hosting binge-watch nights with her crew. Rachel’s content is for readers who want the tea, but also the context.