Coachella isn’t just a music festival; it’s a marketing goldmine.
Every year, brands flock to the desert to mingle with festival attendees and create memorable experiences. As marketing and event experts, we cannot get enough of the live events and festival marketing opportunities taking place. From musical performances to other types of creative brand activations, if you’re a part of this year’s Coachella festival as a brand, you’re set up for great success.
Why Coachella?
But what makes Coachella activations so special? It’s the perfect place to stage unique activations with a captive audience of festival goers making up a diverse audience. If a brand wants to get in front of a young, affluent crowd who uses social media platforms to share their lives, this annual music festival is where to do it. Attendees are eager to share what they’re doing with the world, including brand experiences. In terms of brand marketing, this is a goldmine for reach since they are showcased in an immersive and interactive way.
In addition, experiential marketing helps reach new audiences. These activations go all out as brand craft sensory experiences. These give music fans a way to interact with products, engage with brand reps, and become a part of the story.
When it comes to tapping into influencers, perhaps the best example this year are the Jenner sisters and their brands. Coachella brings in influencers from a variety of industries — fashion, music, lifestyle and more. It’s a who’s who of social media and brands are smart to leverage their attendance. Partnerships with influencers create a ripple effect. Content reaches millions beyond the festival grounds to expand the brand’s reach dramatically. Essentially, every attendee can become brand ambassadors, and the best experiences tap into this in real time.
Finally, marketing activations at Coachella provide incredible earned media for brands. The buzz that comes from the festival grounds is staggering and leads to incredible organic reach and brand awareness. You can’t get better advertising and brand recognition than from festival-goers themselves sharing it on social media.
Don’t worry if you missed Weekend One. There’s still a second weekend of activations and events. These are our top picks that take the marketing cake and have created unforgettable festival activations.
Top marketing activations at Coachella 2024
818 Outpost
Are you ready to saddle up and step into the Wild West of Coachella? If those new cowboy boots of yours needed some breaking in, then Kendall Jenner’s 818 Outpost was your go-to destination. As the ultimate pioneer-style Western Town, this creation wasn’t just an activation. In fact, it was the ultimate experience featuring big brands the first weekend.
First up, the 818 Tequila specialty cocktails, Kendall Jenner’s brand, set the tone for an unforgettable journey. And, if you were looking for something a little different, there was Kylie Jenner’s Sprinter Vodka Soda, offering cocktails as well.
But it’s not all about the spirits—818 Outpost had your wellness covered too.
Say hello to Olipop, the probiotic-packed soda that’s as good for your gut as it is for your taste buds. And for those moments when people needed a pick-me-up, Emma Chamberlain’s Chamberlain Coffee delivered that much-needed caffeine boost with style.
Of course, no festival experience would be complete without the essentials, and 818 Outpost didn’t disappoint. They had everything you needed to survive and thrive throughout Coachella Weekend One.
Celsius Cosmic Desert
Building upon its legacy of promoting health and vitality, Celsius unveiled its latest innovation: the Space Vibe Trilogy of flavors.
This much-anticipated launch promised to take taste buds on an intergalactic journey, offering consumers a cosmic experience like no other. But the excitement didn’t end there. In addition to introducing these new flavors, Celsius Cosmic Desert featured performances from musical artists, cuisine, and photo opps.
Attendees experienced an immersive fusion of music, culture, and wellness against the backdrop of a desert oasis. It created an ambiance that was both invigorating and enchanting. Adding to the allure of the event was the presence of Luna Muerta Piercings. Known for exquisite craftsmanship and innovative designs, Luna Muerta Piercings added an extra layer of creativity to Celsius Cosmic Desert.
NYLON House Friday and Saturday, April 12th-13th:
Lana Del Ray and special guest Billie Eilish ended the night’s performances. But, then there was the ultimate Coachella after hours experience at NYLON House.
The event was presented by Smirnoff ICE and in partnership with an extensive lineup of beauty brands including e.l.f. Cosmetics, got2b, Sally Hansen, and Bumble. Other brands in attendance includedHilton, Kate Spade, Rémy Martin, QUAY, Soulcare, Nautica, Celsius, Banter, and Keys. NYLON House, as promised, was a star-studded affair filled with music, glamor, and excitement. As guests mingled , they had the opportunity to experience firsthand the innovative offerings from the event’s esteemed partners. From beauty and fashion to wellness and lifestyle, each brought its own unique flair to the festivities. Together, they created an immersive experience that was as unforgettable as it was inspiring.
With Smirnoff ICE leading the charge as the presenting sponsor, guests experienced signature cocktails and refreshing libations. And with partners like e.l.f. Cosmetics, and Kate Spade in tow, attendees had access to exclusive activations, VIP lounges, and experiences that elevated the NYLON House .
Revolve Festival Saturday, April 13th
As the sun set over the desert horizon, anticipation mounted for the seventh annual revival of the ultimate festival experience. REVOLVE Festival featured a lineup that paid homage to the golden era of Y2K.
But the magic didn’t stop there. Hailey Bieber’s skincare brand, Rhode, added a touch of glamor. There was a photo studio, inviting guests to capture moments of joy and camaraderie amidst the festivities. And while attendees were basking, Supergoop!’s sunscreen provided extra protection, ensuring that everyone radiated responsibly.
Thirsty for more?
You could have quenched it courtesy of the Jenner sisters, who made their second appearance with their respective brands. With each sip, attendees were transported deeper into a realm where indulgence knew no bounds.
Neon Carnival presented by Liquid I.V. , April 13th-14th
Now in its 13th year, Neon Carnival continues to outshine itself with an evening of live performances, revelry, and excitement. Sponsored by some of the biggest names in entertainment and consumer lifestyle, this event was bigger and better than ever. Leading the charge was the #1 powdered hydration brand in America, Liquid I.V. It offered guests exclusive tastings of two new flavors — the Hydration Multiplier Popsicle® Firecracker and Sugar-Free in Rainbow Sherbet.
Set at the famed Desert International Horse Park, the venue was transformed into a playground of carnival-style games. It also had a Ferris wheel, bumper cars, and other amusement park thrills. Joining the party were sponsors like Ghost® Energy, LaCroix, Coca-Cola, Nütrl Vodka Seltzers, ApeCoin, Heineken, and Path Water. They all added their unique flair to the festivities.
Guests danced the night away under the neon lights, sipping on specialty PATRÓN cocktails and enjoying the adrenaline-pumping atmosphere. Neon Carnival promised to be an unforgettable highlight of the Coachella weekend. It marked yet another chapter in its storied history of music, fun, and excitement.
Desert Nights, April 12-14, 19-22
If you missed weekend one festivities don’t fret, Desert Nights has weekend two lined right up for you. This is the ultimate desert adventure as Desert Nights returns for two weekends of non-stop excitement! Hosted by the renowned Tao Hospitality Group, this year’s event was bigger and better than last year. It featured with three unforgettable nights of music, food, and fun.
Festival-goers are treated to electrifying performances from a lineup of top-notch DJs at this non-stop party. Get ready to dance the night away to the beats of Adriatique, Skepta, John Summit, Kaskade, and many more. With a lineup this stacked, the desert will be pulsating with energy and excitement from dusk till dawn.
But Desert Nights isn’t just about Coachella Valley music—it’s a feast for the senses. Strike a pose at the photo-worthy activations by Poppi, where every snapshot is Instagram-worthy perfection. And when hunger strikes, fear not. Pizza Hut is on hand to satisfy cravings with delicious slices of piping hot pizza. Wash it all down with cocktails from Patrón El Alto, and you’ve got the recipe for a night to remember.
Are you ready for Coachella?
For those attending the second weekend of Coachella, incredible experiences are awaiting you. If you’re not at Coachella this year, but want to reach this audience, be a part of the 2025 festivities. There isn’t a better way to reach your target audience, build your brand and get exposure than with people who posting across the Metaverse. Get your creative juices flowing – now is the time of year to start planning your activation for Coachella in 2025.
Are you ready to reach this audience? We’re here to help. Connect with us today and learn how T Palmer Agency can maximize your marketing dollars. We’re here to take your brand to the next level.