California’s Country Scene at Stagecoach 2025

California is embracing its country roots, and nowhere is this more evident than at the renowned Stagecoach music festival. Just days before Beyoncé launched her highly anticipated Cowboy Carter Tour in Los Angeles, thousands of music lovers flocked to Indio, California, from April 25-27 for the 2025 edition of Stagecoach. This festival, dubbed the country cousin of Coachella, transforms the same picturesque desert grounds into a vibrant venue filled with music, culture, and community.

Why Stagecoach?

Stagecoach has carved a unique niche within the music festival landscape, offering a platform that celebrates the best in country, Americana, and roots music. The event featured a line-up that showcased the diversity of these genres. This year, headliners included country sensations like Zach Bryan, Jelly Roll, and Luke Combs. Though smaller in scale compared to Coachella, Stagecoach boasted five stages and countless food vendors, giving festival-goers an array of chances to experience musical performances and seasonal delights.

First Impressions: T-Mobile’s Club Magenta

Upon arrival, I was welcomed into T-Mobile’s exclusive Club Magenta, a members-only oasis nestled right in front of the famous T-Mobile Mane Stage, where the headliners performed. This high-energy space offered a respite from the bustling festival. Equipped with comfy seating, margaritas, and even some nifty branded cowboy hats, Club Magenta quickly became my safe haven between performances. I enjoyed a moment of relaxation, sipping on drinks while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.

Highlights of the Festival

While my first day was filled with a tinge of FOMO from missing standout performances like Paris Hilton’s DJ set and Mumford & Sons surprise gig, the weekend truly picked up on Saturday and Sunday.

Nostalgic Vibes with the Backstreet Boys

One of the most anticipated moments was the Backstreet Boys closing Sunday night. Their performance was a nostalgic trip down memory lane, featuring chart-toppers like "Everybody (Backstreet’s Back)," "The Call," and "I Want It That Way." Adding a twist to their set, they invited Luke Combs on stage for a surprise rendition of "I Want It That Way," further igniting the crowd’s energy. Experiencing Combs perform "Ain’t No Love In Oklahoma" live was nothing short of exhilarating.

Discovering New Talent

In addition to the big names, I was introduced to emerging artists like Conner Smith. Watching performances while nestled in T-Mobile’s Club Magenta made it even more enjoyable, allowing me to appreciate the fresh sounds and melodies in a comfortable setting.

Festival Activities: A Mix of Fun and Finesse

Stagecoach isn’t just about the music; the festival also includes a plethora of entertaining brand activations. While some pop-ups drew enormous crowds—like the e.l.f. Glow ‘N Go Diner—I chose to explore lesser-known activations that allowed for a more seamless experience.

One entertaining activation was the Béis Rodeo, which provided an opportunity to win exciting prizes in a semi-competitive game. I opted out of some of the long lines, instead sampling free tea at the Saint James Saloon and belting out tunes during karaoke at the Shein Saloon.

Food Adventure: Savoring the Flavors

As someone who relishes good food, Stagecoach offered a delightful culinary experience. The festival’s food scene was rich and diverse, with numerous options to satisfy cravings. I indulged in delectable pulled pork-topped fries while soaking up the sounds of the Goo Goo Dolls. Following a late-night caffeine boost from Monty’s Good Boy Matcha, I felt perfectly fueled to embrace the festival vibes.

Embracing the Cowboy Culture

With beautiful weather gracing the festival grounds, I eagerly embraced the cowboy chic aesthetic, donning denim, lace, and, of course, a stylish cowboy hat. The fashion at Stagecoach added to the festival’s charm, creating a fun atmosphere where attendees could express their personalities through style.

Navigating the Crowds

Although I enjoyed my time at the festival, I experienced challenges navigating the heavy crowds. During some peak moments, I felt a bit overwhelmed, especially when trying to catch headlining acts. As a result, I had to leave early on my first night, missing Jelly Roll’s set due to sheer exhaustion.

Nevertheless, amidst the bustling atmosphere, I was fortunate to share the experience with friends, enjoying moments like chowing down on BBQ and grooving to nostalgic hits.

The After Parties: A Continued Celebration

The festivities didn’t end with the closing acts. Like Coachella, Stagecoach featured a string of exciting after parties. I attended Windsor’s Wild West party, where festival-goers enjoyed a plethora of fun activities like customizing cowboy hats and indulging in taco bars. Other parties throughout the weekend offered additional entertainment, showcasing talents like Nelly and Sofi Tukker.

Stagecoach 2025 highlighted not only the energetic performances from top artists but also the communal spirit of festival culture. While I might lean towards Coachella for its space and vibe, Stagecoach offers a unique blend of country and camaraderie that is hard to resist. With great music, scrumptious food, and unforgettable moments, it’s clear that California’s country scene is flourishing.