Local & Community
Coachella Weekend One Wraps With Historic Headliner, Wind Scares and a Few Surprises
Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival closed out its first of two weekends Sunday night at the Empire Polo Grounds in Indio, capping three days that ranged from weather scares to milestone moments.
Friday got off to a rough start when strong winds sent a heavy light fixture crashing into the crowd during DJ John Summit's set at the Do LaB Stage, striking one attendee in the head and drawing blood, according to multiple social media reports. The same gusts tore through the campgrounds, destroying tents and sending people chasing their canopies and belongings across the grounds. DJ Anyma's set was also canceled. "Coachella and Anyma have made this decision together with your safety as a priority," read a message projected on the stage screen. Despite the chaos, Friday headliner Sabrina Carpenter's performance went off without a hitch.
Saturday brought its own buzz when Justin Bieber took the headline slot, with some festivalgoers dubbing it "Bieberchella." Saturday also saw a well-received surprise collaboration between Nine Inch Nails and electronic producer Boys Noize, performing together as "Nine Inch Noize."
Sunday closed the weekend with a piece of history. Karol G became the first Latina artist ever to headline the Coachella main stage to close out the festival. A pop-up celebration in her honor was held earlier in the day at College of the Desert. Sunday's lineup also included Young Thug, Wet Leg, Laufey, Foster the People, Iggy Pop and Fatboy Slim.
Pop-up events celebrating the festival were spread throughout the Coachella Valley all weekend. Many of those pop-ups will return for Weekend Two, which runs April 17 through 19. NBC Palm Springs' Alondra Campos has the full breakdown.
Heading out of the valley this morning? You're not alone, and the freeways are going to feel it.
Read our traffic guide here for what to expect on your way out.
By: NBC Palm Springs
April 13, 2026
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