Virtually every year I go the first weekend. But, not this year. This year we're trying out Weekend #2 -- shaking it up ... (not because we couldn't get tix for Weekend #1 ... no, that couldn't be it ...).
... which begs the question ... which Coachella weekend is better? Weekend #1 or Weekend #2 (especially when Weekend #1 is the more obvious answer to most of you)?
Here are my Top 5 reasons Weekend #2 beats Weekend #1 -- and is the way to go, especially this year:
(1) I'll concede that it's tough to argue with the "new-ness" of Weekend #1 for both fans and artists/bands -- ALL of it is new to everyone (which alone generates great anticipation). BUT, Weekend #2's sets likely will be "tighter" than Weekend #1's sets -- many artists/bands will modify their sets based on what worked (and what didn't). That's a good thing for hard-core music fans.
(2) Speaking of ... Yes, it's true, one main reason for "real" hard-core, non-poser festival-goers like me (yes, I happily make that claim and can back it up) to attend festivals is to discover great music by under-the-radar artists and bands. Music discovery in its purest form. But, this year's headliners and overall line-up are much weaker than last year's killer year. So, those of us going this weekend benefit from knowing about Weekend #1's buzz-worthy artists and performances. So, while serendipity will still be a huge part of the experience for me, Weekend #1's social media "curation" will help make the most of the weekend (at least that's what I'm telling myself ...).
(3) Last year, many of the most buzz-worthy surprise guests took the stage during Weekend #2 -- and those live collaborations are always cool to watch. Let's hope this happens again this year during Weekend #2.
(4) This year (not surprisingly) Weekend #2 will be hotter (literally!) than Weekend #1 by about 10 degrees -- approaching a very desert-like 100 degrees. "This is a good thing?", you ask? Well, just hear me out. For those of you who, like me, have attended for years, there is something downright magical about the oven-roasting heat that paradoxically brings out even more energy and sunshine vibes in the crowds -- and certainly more free unbridled individual personal expression (how's that for putting it?). Expect thousands more to spend significant time and dance with garlands in their hair in the ubiquitous water zones for which Coachella is famous. Water guns here, there, everywhere. Who can resist that? Not even I! Water brings out a certain "not a care in the world" emancipation that is fundamental to the Coachella experience. Fun. Hilarious. Invigorating. You see, heat can be a good thing!
(5) Drum roll please for Reason # 5 ... did I mention the heat?
See you at Coachella!
(okay -- keeping it very real -- I can easily make the case for Weekend #1 -- but why try? -- why not rationalize this year's choice? Use this as your cheat sheet!)