**Coachella 2025: A Star-Studded Affair with Surprise Performances and Political Statements**

This year's festival at the Empire Polo Club in Indio, California, showcased awe-inspiring performances and a fusion of music and social commentary, leaving fans buzzing from both the music and the messages.

Pop sensations and celebrities alike came together at Coachella 2025, with Lady Gaga delivering an unforgettable main stage performance that included a striking opening number inspired by her classic track "Bloody Mary." Fans clamored for a glimpse of the star, who featured songs from her latest album, Mayhem.

Meanwhile, the South Korean girl group Blackpink's member, Lisa, entertained the audience with energetic dance moves alongside K-pop boy band Enhypen, while several surprise guests graced the festival. Among them was singer Benson Boone, who astonished attendees by inviting rock legend Sir Brian May on stage to perform "Bohemian Rhapsody" while flawlessly executing a front flip.

Hollywood stars Timothee Chalamet and Kylie Jenner were spotted enjoying the sights on the festival's second day, and Blackpink's co-star Patrick Schwarzenegger showcased his support for Lisa by sharing clips of her performance on social media. Among the dancing festival-goers were Justin and Hailey Bieber, as well as singer Tate McRae and Australian rapper The Kid LAROI, who were present during Yeat's Friday night set.

Celebrated acts this year included Grammy-winning artists like Megan Thee Stallion, Post Malone, and the legendary Green Day, who attracted crowds of around 100,000 daily attendees. Charli XCX took to the stage after her five wins at the 2025 Brit Awards, reviving memories of "brat summer" while performing hits like "Von Dutch" and "360." She brought out special guests such as Troye Sivan, Lorde, and Billie Eilish, creating a memorable experience for fans.

However, the festival faced logistical challenges with a new reservation system leading to long wait times for ticket holders, with some enduring up to 12 hours trapped in vehicles in searing heat.

Activism was a key theme this year, with Senator Bernie Sanders addressing the crowd before Clairo's set, critiquing the Trump administration and urging the younger generation to engage in shaping America's future. Green Day followed suit, altering their lyrics to criticize the ongoing war in Gaza and the prevailing "MAGA agenda."

Coachella's reputation has faced scrutiny, with studies showing that 75% of respondents felt the festival had been taken over by influencers. Commemorating the festival's past struggles, the Irish rap group Kneecap engaged the audience in chants against former UK Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, though their broadcast reportedly cut out at a critical moment during their political commentary.

The festival's conclusion is set for next weekend, with hopes to further captivate audiences while addressing both entertainment and social issues amidst a dazzling array of performances.