Coachella chaos: festivalgoers endure 12-hour traffic jam to enter campgrounds
Pranjal Chandra | Apr 12, 2025, 16:33 IST
( Image credit : TIL Creatives )
Coachella's opening day was marred by severe traffic congestion, leaving attendees stranded for up to 12 hours without adequate supplies, sparking Fyre Festival comparisons. Despite the initial chaos and criticism, organizers remained silent, raising concerns about festival preparedness. While traffic eased by Friday, worries persist for the upcoming second weekend, overshadowed by the anticipation for star-studded performances.
A frustrating start to the desert weekend
Social media was flooded with frustrated posts from fans who described being trapped in their vehicles overnight with little to no access to food, water, or restrooms—all while enduring the desert’s sweltering daytime heat.
“I’ve been sitting in this line since 2 a.m. and still haven’t moved,” one user wrote on TikTok. Others shared videos showing car-packed roads, backed up for miles along Madison Street and surrounding areas.
Comparisons to fyre festival emerge
“If you haven’t left yet, stop for food, water, and a bathroom break first,” one TikTok user advised others. “You’re not getting in anytime soon.”
Organizers remain silent amid backlash
Security checkpoints, which require thorough vehicle screenings, appeared to be a major source of the slowdown. Hundreds of cars were pictured in winding lines awaiting clearance, creating a gridlock that some fans say lasted well into the afternoon.
Tensions ease, but worries remain for weekend two
“I love Coachella, but this was the worst entry experience ever,” one attendee posted on X (formerly Twitter). “They need to figure this out before next weekend, or people are going to stop camping altogether.”
Star-studded lineup could overshadow opening woes
Whether the performances can outweigh the negative start to the weekend remains to be seen—but for many attendees, the festival's logistical headaches are likely to leave a lasting impression.