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Stagecoach 2026: Full Lineup, Tickets, Dates, and Insider Guide to California’s Biggest Country Music Festival
Sep
Introduction
Every spring, the California desert transforms into the epicenter of country music, drawing thousands of fans to the Empire Polo Club in Indio, CA. That’s right — Stagecoach Festival is back for 2026, promising another unforgettable weekend filled with cowboy boots, sing-alongs, BBQ smoke, and sunsets over the Coachella Valley.
From April 24–26, 2026, Stagecoach will welcome an incredible mix of country legends, rising stars, and cross-genre surprises. With Cody Johnson, Lainey Wilson, and Post Malone headlining across three nights, alongside legendary names like Journey, Brooks & Dunn, Counting Crows, Hootie & the Blowfish, Pitbull, Ludacris, and more, this year’s lineup is more diverse and ambitious than ever.
If you love country music festivals, you might also enjoy our complete guide to another major event: Two Step Inn Festival 2026: Complete Guide to Georgetown’s Biggest Music Event.
What Is Stagecoach Festival?
For the uninitiated, Stagecoach is the world’s biggest country music festival, launched in 2007 and produced by Goldenvoice (the same organizers of Coachella). Held annually at the Empire Polo Club, Stagecoach usually takes place the weekend after Coachella, turning Indio into a two-week cultural hotspot.
Unlike Coachella’s mix of indie, electronic, and pop, Stagecoach has its roots in country. But don’t be fooled: it’s not just fiddles and steel guitars anymore. Over the years, the lineup has expanded to include Americana, folk, roots rock, alt-rock, and even hip-hop. That’s what makes Stagecoach unique — it’s a genre-crossing festival experience where cowboy hats meet rock guitars and EDM beats.
Stagecoach 2026 Dates and Venue
- Dates: April 24, 25, and 26 (Friday–Sunday)
- Venue: Empire Polo Club, Indio, California
- Address: 81800 Avenue 51, Indio, CA 92201
The Empire Polo Club is a massive 1,000-acre outdoor space with multiple stages, food courts, art installations, and campgrounds. It’s also famous as the longtime home of Coachella. Wide lawns, palm tree silhouettes, and mountain backdrops make this one of the most scenic music venues in the world.
Stagecoach 2026 Lineup Highlights
The 2026 lineup is nothing short of spectacular. Here’s a closer look at the biggest names performing across three days:
Friday, April 24
- Headliner: Cody Johnson
- Other highlights: Bailey Zimmerman, Red Clay Strays, Counting Crows, Ella Langley, Sam Barber, Wynonna Judd, Chase Rice, BigXthaPlug, Noah Cyrus, Lyle Lovett
Saturday, April 25
- Headliner: Lainey Wilson
- Other highlights: Journey, Riley Green, Little Big Town, Bush, Teddy Swims, Gavin Adcock, Billy Bob Thornton & The Boxmasters, Charles Wesley Godwin, Corey Kent
Sunday, April 26
- Headliner: Post Malone
- Other highlights: Brooks & Dunn, Hootie & the Blowfish, Third Eye Blind, Warren Zeiders, Brett Young, The Wallflowers, Ludacris, Pitbull, Diplo (late-night Mustang stage)
This genre-bending mix is one of the boldest in Stagecoach history. Expect traditional country alongside alt-rock nostalgia, rap crossovers, and even EDM after-hours.
Top 5 Performances You Can’t Miss at Stagecoach 2026
- Cody Johnson (Friday Night) — His powerful voice and heartfelt country anthems will set the tone for the entire festival.
- Lainey Wilson (Saturday Night) — One of Nashville’s brightest stars, Lainey brings charisma, style, and hit songs like no one else.
- Journey (Saturday) — Don’t stop believing in this legendary rock band, whose classics will have the whole crowd singing in unison.
- Post Malone (Sunday Night) — Known for blending hip-hop, rock, and country influences, his Stagecoach debut is sure to be one of the weekend’s biggest highlights.
- Pitbull & Ludacris (Mustang Stage, Late-Night Sunday) — When the main stage closes, the Mustang explodes with high-energy party vibes you won’t forget.
Stagecoach Merchandise: Celebrate the 2026 Festival
For fans who love to take home a piece of history, Stagecoach-inspired merch is a must-have.
- Decorate your wall with the Stagecoach 2026 Poster (Full Lineup, Canvas Print) — perfect for collectors and fans who want to remember every artist.
- Wear your fandom proudly with the Stagecoach 2026 Two-Sided Print T-Shirt — stylish, comfortable, and festival-ready.
Browse more exclusive designs in the Stagecoach Music Festival Collection.
Ticket Information
- On Sale: October 2, 2025
- General Admission: Starting at $549 (3-day pass)
- VIP Options: Include better stage access, shaded lounges, and premium food & drink areas
- Payment Plan: Lock in your ticket for just $99 down, then spread out the cost over several months
Tickets sell out fast, so fans are encouraged to buy as early as possible via the official website: stagecoachfestival.com
Where to Stay: Hotels, Camping, and Airbnb
On-Site Camping
Camping is one of the most authentic Stagecoach experiences. Options include car camping, tent camping, and RV sites. On-site campers enjoy easy access to the venue, late-night fun, and a built-in community atmosphere.
Nearby Hotels
Popular areas: Indio, Palm Desert, Palm Springs, and La Quinta. Hotels in these areas range from budget motels to luxury resorts but sell out months in advance.
Airbnb & Rentals
Vacation homes are a great option for groups. Many properties are tailored for festival goers, with shuttle stops nearby.
How to Get There
- Driving: From Los Angeles, the drive is about 2–3 hours east via I-10.
- Flying: The nearest airport is Palm Springs International Airport (PSP), just 20 miles away. Other options include Ontario (ONT), Los Angeles (LAX), or San Diego (SAN).
- Shuttles: Official shuttle passes are available, connecting major hotel zones to the venue.
Survival Guide: Tips for First-Time Attendees
- Hydrate Constantly: The desert sun is intense; bring a hydration pack.
- Wear Comfortable Boots or Shoes: You’ll walk miles each day.
- Bring a Hat & Sunscreen: Shade is minimal.
- Plan Your Schedule: Download the Stagecoach app to avoid missing your favorite acts.
- Stay Late: Some of the most legendary sets happen at Mustang after dark.
- Bring Cashless Options: Most vendors are tap-to-pay.
- Balance Music & Food: Don’t miss Guy Fieri’s Smokehouse or local BBQ vendors.
Sample Itinerary for Stagecoach 2026
Friday: Start with Ella Langley and Red Clay Strays, grab BBQ for dinner, then head to Cody Johnson at sunset. Wrap up at Mustang with BigXthaPlug.
Saturday: Explore daytime sets like Charles Wesley Godwin. Eat lunch at Guy Fieri’s BBQ. Evening: Journey and Lainey Wilson back-to-back. End the night with Pitbull.
Sunday: Catch The Wallflowers in the afternoon, then prepare for the biggest finale: Brooks & Dunn into Post Malone. Close out Mustang with Ludacris and Diplo.
Final Thoughts
Stagecoach 2026 is shaping up to be one of the most exciting festivals of the decade. With its bold lineup blending country royalty, rock nostalgia, and cross-genre stars, it’s more than a festival — it’s a cultural event that captures the spirit of California’s desert.
And if you can’t wait until April, why not grab some exclusive Stagecoach 2026 merch? From the poster canvas to the two-sided print t-shirt, there’s no better way to show your love for the festival.
So, grab your boots, gather your crew, and get ready for three unforgettable days in Indio. Tickets won’t last long — saddle up now and secure your spot at Stagecoach 2026.
