Weekend one of Coachella 2025 proved to be one of the most vibrant and queer-inclusive editions of the desert music festival to date, showcasing a dynamic lineup of LGBTQ+ artists and allies across its celebration in Indio, California.
The legendary Lady Gaga returned to headline the festival for the first time in eight years, delivering what fans have hailed as the most theatrical and operatic set in Coachella history. Having first headlined in 2017, Gaga’s performance on the opening night was a full-blown spectacle, equal parts pop concert and performance art, cementing her legacy as one of the festival’s most iconic acts.
best. coachella. set. ever.
LADY GAGA DID THAT. #GAGACHELLA pic.twitter.com/qcXLK1cSUX
— GⱯGⱯ THROWBⱯCKS (@ThrowbacksGaga) April 12, 2025
The weekend continued with another standout performance from Charli xcx, who took the stage on day two. Marking the end (yet not quite) of her much hyped Brat summer, Charli ignited the stage with a fierce, high-energy set, bringing along a string of surprise guests to the crowd’s delight.
Among them was Australian pop star and Sweat tour collaborator Troye Sivan, who joined her on stage to perform their electrifying remix of ‘Talk talk’. Sivan made a bold statement in a ‘Protect the Dolls’ T-shirt, a nod to queer resilience and solidarity. The star-studded set also featured surprise appearances from pop heavyweights Billie Eilish and Lorde, making it one of the most talked-about moments of the festival.
ty coachella <3 pic.twitter.com/DkwGPqYkl4
— Charli (@charli_xcx) April 13, 2025
The festival’s queer spirit extended well beyond the main stages. This year’s Coachella introduced Q+amp Camp, a dedicated VIP space designed to celebrate and support queer festival goers. The space offered exclusive access, community events, and opportunities to connect with LGBTQ+ leaders and creatives.
Elsewhere, queer talent shone brightly across the lineup at Coachella 2025, with standout performances from Clairo, Japanese Breakfast, and DJ duo Coco & Breezy. Trixie Mattel, who will also appear at the Mother Pride Block Party this summer, brought her signature drag-pop flair to the stage, while rock veterans Green Day added a dose of punk energy to the rainbow weekend.
© 2025 GCN (Gay Community News). All rights reserved.
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