Coachella Day 1 Brings Energetic Performances from Sabrina Carpenter, KATSEYE, and John Summit

The iconic music festival kicked off its 2026 edition with a star-studded first night in Indio, California.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 2:56pm

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An extreme close-up photograph showcasing the abstract, high-contrast textures of glittering sequins and shattered disco glass, conveying the celebratory mood and energy of Coachella's opening night.The vibrant energy and high-fashion glamour of Coachella's opening night performances are captured in this abstract close-up of shimmering textures.Indio Today

Coachella 2026 has officially begun, and the first night of the festival was filled with high-energy performances from some of the industry's biggest names. Sabrina Carpenter made her Coachella headlining debut, delivering a stellar set that included special appearances from actors Samuel L. Jackson, Will Ferrell, and Susan Sarandon. Electronic dance music artist KATSEYE also took the stage, though without bandmate Manon Bannerman who is on a hiatus. Additionally, EDM star John Summit had fans dancing to his transcendent beats. The night was marked by numerous surprise collaborations, including Sexyy Red performing with Central Cee and Lizzo, and Swae Lee welcoming Jhene Aiko.

Why it matters

Coachella is one of the most anticipated music festivals of the year, drawing massive crowds and attention from around the world. The first night's performances set the tone for the rest of the weekend, showcasing the diverse range of talent and energy that makes Coachella such a unique and iconic event.

The details

Sabrina Carpenter's headlining set on the main stage opened with a cinematic short film featuring actor Sam Elliott as a police officer warning her to stay away from California. However, Carpenter defied the warning and delivered an electrifying performance, featuring her biggest hits and surprise appearances from actors Samuel L. Jackson, Will Ferrell, and Susan Sarandon. KATSEYE also took the Sahara stage, though without bandmate Manon Bannerman who is currently on a hiatus. EDM star John Summit had fans dancing to his transcendent beats on one of the festival's stages. The night was filled with numerous collaborations, including Sexyy Red performing with Central Cee and Lizzo, and Swae Lee welcoming Jhene Aiko to the stage.

  • Coachella 2026 officially kicked off on April 11, 2026.
  • Sabrina Carpenter's headlining set took place on the first night of the festival.

The players

Sabrina Carpenter

An American singer, songwriter, and actress who made her Coachella headlining debut on the first night of the 2026 festival.

KATSEYE

An electronic dance music group that performed on the Sahara stage during the first night of Coachella 2026, though without member Manon Bannerman who is currently on a hiatus.

John Summit

An American DJ and record producer who is considered a leading figure in the EDM scene and performed at Coachella 2026.

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What they’re saying

“Sabrina Carpenter used all the tricks up her sleeve -- opening her set with a cinematic short film during which a police officer played by Sam Elliott warned her to stay away from California.”

— TMZ Staff, Reporter

“KATSEYE gave an energetic performance on the Sahara stage, notably without Manon Bannerman, who took a hiatus from the group to focus on her health.”

— TMZ Staff, Reporter

“EDM's leading heartthrob John Summit also had fans dancing to his transcendent beats.”

— TMZ Staff, Reporter

What’s next

Fans are eagerly awaiting Justin Bieber's highly anticipated headlining performance on the second night of Coachella 2026, with resale ticket values spiking in anticipation.

The takeaway

Coachella's first night showcased the festival's ability to bring together a diverse array of musical talent, from pop stars like Sabrina Carpenter to electronic dance acts like KATSEYE and John Summit. The energy and collaborations on display set the stage for an unforgettable Coachella weekend.