Coachella's Pricey Peril: Festivalgoers Outraged Over 'Diabolical' Concessions
Coachella, one of the most celebrated music festivals, is currently facing backlash due to its sky-high prices for food and drink, leaving attendees reeling and their wallets lighter. The Southern California desert may be famous for its music, but this year, it’s the exorbitant prices causing a din amongst festivalgoers.
Influencer’s Pricey Encounter
As stated in New York Post, Ruth Viveros chronicled her Coachella experience on TikTok, sharing her first night expenses which included a staggering \(102 for a meal of tacos and lemonade. Despite the hefty price tag, Viveros reluctantly admitted some satisfaction with the \)17 lemonade, though she lamented the cold and unimpressive nachos.
The Cost Conundrum
TikTok users were quick to share their outrage, referring to the situation as a “diabolical” pricing scheme. Attendees not only face steep entry costs but also meet high additional charges for basic amenities such as meals and drinks. This has sparked discussions online, with many labeling Coachella a “money trap.”
Price Breakdown in the Desert
The steep costs are not limited to food. Inside festival VIP tents, alcoholic beverages like Red Bull Vodka are priced at \(23, while a simple can of beer costs \)15. Even essential items like water and soda are priced higher than typically expected, further fueling the frustration.
Traffic and Temperatures Add to Woes
The festival’s operational challenges add another layer to attendees’ grievances. Traffic jams stretched for 12 hours, with thousands of festival-goers sweltering in the high desert heat. According to festival veterans, this year’s logistical struggles are among the worst ever seen at Coachella.
Looking Back
Just last year, festival-goers sounded alarm bells over similarly high costs. Viral accounts of paying $64 for cucumber water and breakfast burritos linger as a cautionary tale, now seemingly overshadowed by this year’s experience.
A Community Reexamined
The cost predicament at Coachella raises questions about the festival experience’s genuine value. Despite the captivating performances and cultural clout, attendees might begin questioning if the price of participation outweighs the enjoyment of the event. Is Coachella becoming more about the money than the music?
Fast forward past the glitz and glamour of stages and lighting, and a more complex picture of Coachella emerges, prompting conversations on the true essence of festival enjoyment.
