Coachella Music Festival 411

Coachella reigns as one of the world’s top music festivals, and this year’s lineup is likely to pull in record crowds to hear big name acts like Radiohead front man Thom Yorke, MGMT, and headliner Jay Z. This three-day concert extravaganza, set amid a Palm Springs polo field, starts this Friday and if you haven’t bought tickets yet, it’s time to start scouring Craigslist or online ticket brokers.

The key to enjoying this raucous concert is not to attempt and see every band, particularly during the midday heat. Luckily there are plenty of daytime pool parties to keep revelers refreshed. Check out the scene at The Viceroy where hipsters from LA mingle and relax before the nighttime shows. A definite hot spot this year will be the Music Lounge @ IndiOasis. This private mansion retreat for artists and celebs is located just five minutes from the festival grounds, and guests will hear exclusive DJ sets and performances by artists like Macy Gray and Junior Sanchez.

Although most hotels in the surrounding Palm Springs area are already full, last-minute concert goers can still book an on-site luxury safari-themed tent, complete with air conditioning, queen-size bed, shag rugs, and a lounge area. The $5,000 price tag is steep, but it includes two three-day all-access VIP festival passes, and most importantly, private bathrooms.

For more information check out the Coachella site.