Coachella 2026 is currently underway, celebrating its landmark 25th anniversary, but festival-goers are voicing fierce criticism over what they describe as 'unhinged' food prices at the iconic music event. From $30 chicken sandwiches to $41 for two slices of pizza and a Coke, attendees are taking to social media to share their sticker shock, despite already paying hundreds for admission.
Exorbitant Costs for Basic Festival Fare
Weekend one of Coachella has just concluded, running from April 10 to 12 at the Empire Polo Club in Indio, California, with weekend two set for April 17 to 19. This year's lineup features global megastars like Sabrina Carpenter, Justin Bieber, and Karol G, who made history as the first Latina headliner. However, the excitement is being dampened by reports of soaring food costs.
General admission passes range from $549 to $649, yet fans say the financial strain doesn't end there. One TikTok user, @girlbosstown, revealed she paid $23 for noodles and $28 for carne asada fries, though she noted the food was "really good" and portions were reasonable. Others were less forgiving in comments, with one person stating, "I am so glad I have no desire to go to anything like this," and another adding, "More and more I'm convinced I wouldn't enjoy this even if it was free."
Specific Price Points Spark Outrage
Influencer 'Jacks Dining Room' shared his experience, highlighting a $20 trio of tacos and a caviar-covered burger and fries that cost a staggering $150. Sweetfin, a Los Angeles-based poke bowl spot, offered vegetarian and vegan options like spicy tuna and yuzu salmon bowls for $23 each. Meanwhile, Dave's Hot Chicken charged $30 for a chicken sandwich with fries, $26 for tenders and fries, and even plain fries set attendees back $12.
The pizza offerings fared no better, with one festival-goer reporting he paid $41 for just two slices and a can of Coke, describing it as eating "cold tomato sauce on dough." A commenter calculated this as "Every bite is $4.91." Even those who brought their own food weren't spared, as one woman disclosed she and her friends still spent $50 on three coffees.
Broader Implications for Festival Culture
This backlash highlights a growing concern over affordability at major entertainment events. As Coachella continues with its second weekend, attendees are urged to budget carefully. Sweetfin and Dave's Hot Chicken have been approached for comment, but no responses have been made public yet. For anyone planning to attend, it's clear: saving up isn't just for tickets—it's for the food, too.
