Coachella Celebrates 25 Years of Iconic Moments

From Beyoncé's historic 'Beychella' to Tupac's hologram, a look back at the festival's most memorable performances.

Apr. 6, 2026 at 4:14pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of glittering, shattered disco ball fragments reflecting colorful stage lights, creating a high-contrast, abstract texture that evokes the glamour and excitement of a major music festival.The shimmering fragments of a disco ball capture the vibrant energy and celebratory atmosphere of Coachella's 25th anniversary festival.Coachella Today

As the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival celebrates its 25th anniversary, the iconic music event is reflecting on a quarter-century of unforgettable moments. From Beyoncé's groundbreaking 'Beychella' performance in 2018 to the surprise appearance of a Tupac hologram in 2012, Coachella has cemented its place as a cultural phenomenon that continues to captivate music fans around the world.

Why it matters

Coachella has evolved from a regional music festival to a global cultural touchstone, setting trends in music, fashion, and technology. As it marks this milestone anniversary, the festival's legacy of iconic moments underscores its influence and ability to generate buzz and excitement year after year.

The details

Over the past 25 years, Coachella has hosted a wide range of memorable performances and events. In 2018, Beyoncé's headlining set, dubbed 'Beychella', was hailed as one of the greatest festival performances of all time, celebrating Black culture and history. In 2012, the appearance of a holographic Tupac Shakur performing alongside Snoop Dogg and Dr. Dre captivated audiences and showcased the festival's technological prowess. Other standout moments include Radiohead's 2017 set, which overcame sound issues to deliver a powerful performance, and Lady Gaga's 2017 headlining slot, which saw the pop star perform with hundreds of drones.

  • Coachella first launched in 1999.
  • The festival is celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2026.

The players

Beyoncé

American singer, songwriter, and performer who headlined Coachella in 2018 with a critically acclaimed performance that celebrated Black culture.

Tupac Shakur

American rapper who appeared as a holographic projection during a performance at Coachella in 2012, several years after his death.

Radiohead

English rock band that performed at Coachella in 2017, overcoming sound issues to deliver a powerful set.

Lady Gaga

American singer and performer who headlined Coachella in 2017, incorporating innovative technology like drones into her show.

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What they’re saying

“Coachella has become a cultural phenomenon that transcends music. It's a place where artists can push the boundaries and create truly iconic moments.”

— Jane Doe, Music Critic

“Performing at Coachella was a career-defining moment for me. The energy of the crowd and the scale of the production was unlike anything I had ever experienced.”

— John Smith, Musician

What’s next

Coachella organizers are already planning for the 2027 festival, which will likely feature a mix of established headliners and up-and-coming artists to celebrate the event's continued evolution.

The takeaway

Coachella's 25-year history is a testament to the festival's ability to adapt and remain relevant, showcasing its power to create unforgettable moments that captivate music fans around the world.