One of the world’s largest music festivals won’t require vaccines, masks or tests this year

Coachella, one of the biggest and most popular music festivals in the world, will not be requiring ticket-holders to be vaccinated, wear masks or test negative at the 2022 event, organisers have said.

The eased restrictions for the event, which is among the first to make such a change, conform with state guidance, organisers added, but could change accordingly.

Coachella, which takes place in the southern Californian desert, will go ahead for the first time since 2019 this year, after pandemic-induced cancellations.

It will take place as normal across two consecutive weekends – 15-17 April and 22-24 April.

Though the wearing of masks won’t be required for protection against COVID-19, organisers do warn those with tickets that they should use one for desert dust.

“In accordance with local guidelines, there will be no vaccination, testing or masking requirements at Coachella 2022,” a statement on Coachella’s website read.

“However, the event shall be presented in accordance with applicable public health conditions as of the date of the event and which may change at any time as determined by federal, state or local government agencies.

“Such requirements may include, without limitation, changes to capacity, attendance procedures and entry requirements, such as proof of vaccination and/or negative COVID-19 test, and other protective measures such as requiring attendees to wear face coverings.”

They add that any one who does not comply with the rules will be refunded and denied entry.

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Harry Styles will headline both Fridays of the event, while Billie Eilish, who recently scored an Oscar nomination for her Bond theme No Time To Die, will perform the main slot on the Saturdays.

Kanye West, now known as Ye, is due to close down the weekends by performing on the Sunday nights, but has recently said that he would not get on stage unless fellow headliner Eilish apologised for what he says was a dig at Travis Scott, after she stopped her gig to help a fan.

Eilish did not mention Travis Scott during the incident, who is under fire for not stopping his concert at the Astroworld festival last November.