Coachella kicks off with Sabrina Carpenter and surprise guests
Coachella Unveils Star-Studded Start with Sabrina Carpenter and Unannounced Performers
The Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival began its 2024 edition on Friday, with pop sensation Sabrina Carpenter taking the lead. A notable highlight came when actress Susan Sarandon unexpectedly joined Carpenter’s performance, embodying her older self during a cinematic segment.
Additional guest appearances included comedian Will Ferrell and veteran actor Sam Elliott, who brought a Hollywood-themed flair to the event. The performance featured a short film where Carpenter was pulled over by Elliott, leading to a dramatic transition onto the stage.
Organizers reported that the festival’s attendance reached over 100,000 daily, with police from Indio confirming the scale of the gathering. However, strong winds disrupted the schedule, causing the cancellation of DJ Anyma’s set following Carpenter’s performance. The festival announced via Instagram that Anyma’s stage was affected by wind conditions, prompting the decision to prioritize visitor safety.
“Due to strong wind conditions affecting Anyma’s stage build, he is unable to perform tonight,” the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival said in a statement on Friday. “Coachella and Anyma have made this decision together with your safety as the priority.”
The National Weather Service cautioned that wind speeds could peak at 25 mph on Friday. An air quality advisory was issued for the Coachella Valley from Friday afternoon to Sunday morning, warning of potential health risks for vulnerable individuals due to airborne dust.
“Particle pollution can get deep into the lungs and cause serious health problems such as asthma attacks, heart and lung disease symptoms, and increased risk of lung infections,” the National Weather Service warned.
Despite the advisory, air quality levels in Indio were deemed good to moderate by noon on Thursday. The local air quality management district noted that while dust was a concern, particulate pollution remained within acceptable limits.
Friday’s lineup also featured KATSEYE, the international girl group, and Disclosure, the British artist. Saturday will see Justin Bieber as the headliner, with Karol G set to perform on Sunday. Several UK acts, such as Wet Leg, Lambrini Girls, Little Simz, and FKA Twigs, are scheduled to join the festivities. The same performers will return for the second weekend.
Held at the Empire Polo Club in Indio, the Coachella festival has been a major event since 2002, drawing global attention each year with its eclectic mix of music and art.
