For the last few years, American Express has sponsored one of the world’s most popular music festivals: the Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival in Southern California.
Now, Amex has announced this year’s perks for cardholders attending the festival — and the benefits this year are pretty sweet.
Here are some of the perks you’ll be able to enjoy at this year’s music fest.
Access the Amex Lounge
Cardmembers will get access for themselves and three companions to the on-site Amex Lounge. This year’s lounge features a Y2K-inspired aesthetic with vintage cameras and exclusive artist merch. One fun feature is the option to print your photo onto a limited-edition Coachella tote bag.
The lounge will be open from 12 p.m. to 9 p.m. No pre-registration is required; it’s on a first-come-first-served basis.
You’ll need to present your card physically or via a mobile wallet to get in. This is open to all Amex cardmembers, not just those with premium cards like The Platinum Card® from American Express.
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Take a free ride on the Ferris wheel
You’ll also enjoy a complimentary ride on Coachella’s Ferris wheel, “La Grande,” once per weekend. Just present your physical card or show it on a mobile device.
While cardmembers can’t bring along a complimentary guest, your friends and loved ones can get on the ride for free by registering for a complimentary Ferris wheel ride in the Coachella app. Then, they need to find the American Express desk next to the Ferris wheel ticketing booth, show their app screen to tap their wristband and claim the ticket to join the ride with you.
Receive a $10 statement credit
Amex cardholders will get a one-time $10 statement credit when you spend $50 on-site (can be multiple purchases that add up to $50) using your eligible card at participating on-site merchants. Trust us — spending $50 at Coachella won’t be too difficult.
Use Amex checkout lines
Cardholders will also get access to fast-tracked Amex checkout lines at the main festival merch tents, meaning more time to enjoy the festival and less time waiting.
Bottom line
If you think the perks are worth it, there’s still time to apply for an Amex card before the festival. You can read TPG’s guide on choosing the best Amex card for you — a no-annual-fee Amex should grant you access to all of the festival benefits.
Additional reporting by Brendan Dorsey.
Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.
