It is taking longer to get into Coachella 2016 after increased security

The Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival kicked off its 17th year on Friday, April 15, with more security measures.

Gates, which were supposed to open at 11 a.m., opened about 45 minutes later and guests who went through we’re not only searched with a thorough pat down, but also went through a metal detector.

However, some artists have already had to cancel sets. British grime star Skepta and house pioneer Sasha both canceled their Friday sets, according to an alert from the Coachella app. Also, UK band Lush, which was scheduled to perform Sunday, released a statement that it would miss weekend one of Coachella.

One of the first impressions of this year’s festival is that the art is bigger than ever.

Bass pounding like a metronome in the distance, thousands of people are filing through the numerous security gates and into the festival.

The roughly half-mile walk from the parking lot passes by flower - spotted hedges, past a camping area replete with street signs, spray painted vans, hammocks, and two guys in dresses doing yoga.

And then you’ve arrived at the real entrance under the Ferris wheel, sun beating down on thousands of smiling people giving off the strong impression of being lost.

Welcome to Coachella. And yes, the Trojan sandals and flower crowns are alive and well this year.