ESSENCE Festival 2025
The ESSENCE Festival of Culture® presented by Coca-Cola® is returning to New Orleans from July 4-6, 2025, marking a momentous celebration of ESSENCE Magazine's 55th anniversary.
This year's festival, themed "Made Like This," promises an extraordinary lineup of musical legends and rising stars, combining daytime enrichment with electrifying nighttime performances at Caesars Superdome.

Event Details
- Dates: July 4-6, 2025
- Location: Caesars Superdome & Ernest N. Morial Convention Center
- Hosts: Anthony Anderson and Kenny Burns
Live Performance Highlights
The star-studded lineup features iconic performers including:
- R&B legends: Boyz II Men, Maxwell, The Isley Brothers
- Contemporary Stars: Summer Walker, GloRilla, Davido
- Special Appearances: Master P, Nas, Muni Long
- A Tribute to Quincy Jones curated by Jermaine Dupri
ESSENCE Festival Experience
Beyond the music, attendees can enjoy signature events at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center from July 4-6, including:
- ESSENCE Food & Wine Festival™ - Daily tastings and chef demonstrations featuring local and celebrity chefs
- BEAUTYCON™: @ESSENCEFEST Edition - Beauty workshops and demos in the Convention Center's Great Hall
- ESSENCE Film Festival® - Screenings and filmmaker discussions at Theater B, July 4-6
- SOKO MRKT™ by ESSENCE® - Shop from Black-owned businesses in Hall H, open 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily

About ESSENCE Fest
As one of the nation's largest cultural event, ESSENCE Festival continues to generate nearly $1 billion in economic impact while celebrating Black artistry, self-expression, and leadership on a global scale. Whether attending in person or virtually, the 2025 festival promises to deliver an unforgettable experience that honors the past while boldly stepping into the future.