Hey gorgeous! Coachella's over, but the party's far from finished. I'm still buzzing from the weekend – the music, the outfits, the sheer energy! But let's be real, the real magic happens after the festival gates close. So, ditch the glitter (or not, who am I to judge?), and get ready to dive headfirst into the best Coachella after-parties. Trust me, you won't regret it. This year was insane! I even bumped into someone famous... but I'll save that story for another time 😉. Let's get to those parties!
coachella after party scene | Image: Supplied
1. The Neon Carnival: It's as legendary as Coachella itself! Okay, maybe I'm slightly exaggerating, but seriously, this party is HUGE. Think A-list celebrities, insane installations, and enough champagne to fill an Olympic-sized pool (almost). It's expensive, sure, but the experience? Totally worth it if you're balling on a budget, you can always check out the scene from afar and watch the celebs arrive and depart.
- Vibe: Super exclusive, high-energy, celeb-spotting central.
- Music: A mix of popular DJs and artists. Usually, a really great lineup.
- Dress code: Think glamorous, festival chic. Sparkle is encouraged! (Did I mention the insane installations?)
neon carnival coachella after party | Image: Supplied
2. Bootsy Bellows: This one's a little more under-the-radar, but trust me, it's worth seeking out. Last year, I accidentally stumbled upon it (long story!), and it was incredible. Much more intimate than the Neon Carnival, you'll find a cool mix of people—music industry peeps, influencers, and regular folks just wanting to have a killer time. It's a great spot to dance the night away without feeling completely overwhelmed by the sheer scale of things.
- Vibe: More intimate, cool crowd, excellent music.
- Music: Usually, a mix of house, hip-hop, and whatever the current hot DJ is spinning.
- Dress code: Stylish but comfortable. You'll be dancing all night long!
bootsy bellows coachella after party | Image: Supplied
3. The Z100's Party: If you're a pop music fanatic, then this is your jam. Z100, as always, throws a crazy party. One of my friends went last year and said the music was nonstop. They had tons of performers. It's always a huge party, and a solid choice for a fun night out.
- Vibe: Massive, high-energy, pure pop perfection. (If that's your style!)
- Music: Expect all the top hits and maybe some surprise guest appearances.
- Dress code: Get your most dance-ready outfit. (Comfortable shoes are a must! My heels last year were a mistake, let me tell you.)
z100 coachella after party | Image: Supplied
4. The Coachella Weekend 2 Pool Party: A bit different from the others on the list, if you're in it for the long haul and attending Coachella for both weekends, many hotels host their own after-parties near the festival grounds. Think refreshing cocktails, great music, and a chill way to unwind after a long day of dancing in the desert sun. I actually loved this option last year! So much more relaxing!
- Vibe: Relaxed, refreshing, a chance to chill out before the next day of the festival.
- Music: Usually more laid-back than other parties— think chill house or something similar.
- Dress code: Swimsuit, coverup, and your best sunglasses.
coachella pool party | Image: Supplied
5. Surprise Pop-Up Parties: Don’t underestimate the power of spontaneous fun! The desert is full of surprises. Keep your ears open and your eyes peeled for unannounced parties at various venues around town. I've stumbled across some incredible hidden gems this way; last year, it was a secret party hosted at a private art gallery. Some of the best Coachella memories are unplanned!
- Vibe: Unpredictable, exciting, full of hidden gems.
- Music: Completely variable—it could be anything!
- Dress code: Be ready for anything. Comfortable shoes are always a good idea.
coachella surprise party | Image: Supplied
So there you have it, five unforgettable Coachella after-parties to add to your itinerary. But remember, my darling, the best after-party is always the one you create with your friends. So gather your squad, plan ahead (at least a little!), and get ready to make some seriously awesome memories. And don't forget to hydrate – it's the desert, after all! Let me know which party you choose! I'd love to hear about your Coachella adventures. Xoxo, Willow.
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