A recent Reddit thread on r/coachella (Feb 1, 2026) lit up after a user asked whether ICE might be at Coachella and whether it’s safe for a friend with DACA to attend. The conversation highlights real anxiety among festival-goers and locals about immigration enforcement in the Coachella Valley.
What people in the thread said
– Several local commenters say there’s been enforcement activity in the Coachella/Indio area and that Riverside County law enforcement can be aggressive.
– Multiple posters recommended camping at the festival as the lowest-risk option, and warned that staying in a nearby Airbnb or hotel could increase the chance of encounters with authorities.
– Others urged caution and suggested skipping the festival if there’s any doubt — your safety is more important than a weekend of music.
A few common suggestions from commenters (and good practical takeaways)
– Camp on-site if possible: commenters felt the festival grounds/campgrounds would be the safest place to stay versus hotels or private rentals.
– Watch the situation and pick a weekend: some recommended waiting to see whether anything happens in Weekend 1 before going Weekend 2, and to follow community reports on social channels.
– If you’re worried, sell the ticket: both weekends are sold out, so selling at face value is often doable.
– Stay inside the festival area and avoid unnecessary travel around Indio/Coachella during the event.
What we recommend (non-legal safety tips)
– Check for official statements from Goldenvoice and the festival about enforcement policies, and follow local news and community channels for real-time reports.
– Reach out to immigrant-rights groups or an immigration attorney for specific legal guidance—don’t rely on internet speculation for legal decisions.
– Travel with trusted people, keep emergency contacts handy, and have a plan for how to leave or sell tickets if you need to.
– If you’re uncomfortable or uncertain, choosing not to go is a totally valid option — your safety matters more than FOMO.
Bottom line
The Reddit thread shows there’s no definitive public answer: locals report enforcement in the area, and festival-goers recommend exercising caution. Camping and staying within the festival footprint came up repeatedly as lower-risk choices, but the safest move is to monitor official announcements, consult trusted legal resources, and choose what keeps your friend safest.
We’ll keep an eye on developments and any official statements from Goldenvoice or local authorities. If you’re going and want a quick checklist for safety planning, drop a comment and we’ll add one.
Source: https://www.reddit.com/r/Coachella/comments/1qsth9e/chances_of_ice_being_at_coachella_my_friend_is/