Coachella Kicks Off with Sabrina Carpenter and Surprise Guests

The Coachella music festival commenced on Friday with an unexpected appearance by actor Susan Sarandon during Sabrina Carpenter’s opening set. The veteran performer delivered a monologue portraying an older version of the 26-year-old pop star in the middle of her performance, adding a dramatic twist to the event. Comedian Will Ferrell and actor Sam Elliott also participated, bringing a Hollywood-themed flair to the stage.

Set against the backdrop of the California desert, the festival draws over 100,000 attendees daily for two weekends, as reported by Indio city police. However, weather conditions disrupted the schedule, leading to the cancellation of DJ Anyma’s set following Carpenter’s performance. The Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival issued a statement on Instagram, explaining,

“Due to strong wind conditions affecting Anyma’s stage build, he is unable to perform tonight. Coachella and Anyma have made this decision together with your safety as the priority.”

Wind gusts reached approximately 25 miles per hour, prompting concerns about stage stability.

Additional caution was advised due to an air quality advisory in the Coachella Valley from Friday afternoon to Sunday morning. The National Weather Service warned,

“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.”

Despite the advisory, local air quality levels were categorized as good to moderate since Thursday afternoon.

Carpenter transformed the stage into a Hollywood-inspired setting, dubbing it “Sabrinawood.” Her performance began with a short film scene where she was stopped by actor Sam Elliott during a nighttime drive. After being let go, she emerged onto the stage, continuing her set. Later, comedian Will Ferrell made a comedic entrance as an electrician. Other acts on Friday included KATSEYE and Disclosure, while Saturday’s headliner is Justin Bieber and Sunday features Karol G.

Several UK artists are also scheduled, such as Wet Leg, Lambrini Girls, Little Simz, and FKA Twigs. The lineup will repeat next weekend, with the event taking place at the Empire Polo Club in Indio. Since its launch in 2002, Coachella has become a global phenomenon, drawing diverse crowds to its desert location each year.