2025 Essence Festival of Culture: Everything You Need to Know

Key Takeaways

• Essence Festival 2025 takes place July 3-6, 2025, celebrating Black culture with concerts at Caesars Superdome and free daytime programming.
• Headliners include Boyz II Men, Maxwell, Nas, Jill Scott, Erykah Badu, and The Isley Brothers performing across four nights.
• Free daytime events at Ernest N. Morial Convention Center include panels, workshops, wellness sessions, and the SOKO MRKT marketplace.

If you’re planning to attend Essence Festival in 2025, you’re in for an unforgettable celebration of music, culture, and empowerment in the heart of New Orleans. Taking place over July 4th weekend — from Thursday, July 3 to Sunday, July 6, 2025 — Essence Fest brings together chart-topping artists, powerful speakers, and a vibrant community from around the world to honor Black culture and the unique energy of the Crescent City.

In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to plan your trip, including the 2025 Essence Fest musical lineup, tips from locals, and helpful info to make the most of your experience. 

What is the Essence Festival?

Originally launched in 1995 to celebrate the 25th anniversary of Essence magazine, the Essence Festival of Culture was intended to be a one-time event. But its success was so overwhelming, it quickly became an annual tradition. Now, 30 years later, it stands as one of the most powerful and inspiring celebrations of contemporary Black culture in the country.

By day, the festival offers thought-provoking panels and conversations led by influential speakers on topics like race, gender, art, economics, education, and wellness. You’ll also find a vibrant marketplace filled with vendors showcasing fashion, jewelry, art, and handmade goods that reflect the richness of the African Diaspora. There are workshops on beauty, business, empowerment, and more, plus opportunities to give back through community events and service projects supporting the city of New Orleans.

At night, the energy shifts to unforgettable live music. Expect headlining performances by top-name artists, lively DJ sets, intimate showcases from rising stars, and an all-around electric atmosphere that lights up the Superdome and beyond. 

2025 Essence Festival Dates & Location

When is the 2025 Essence Festival?

Essence Festival in New Orleans is held every Fourth of July weekend. This year’s dates are Thursday, July 3 to Sunday, July 6, 2025. 

Where is the 2025 Essence Festival?

Essence Festival takes place citywide. The largest events are held at the Caesars Superdome and the New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, with smaller events hosted in additional venues throughout downtown New Orleans. 

Who is Performing at the 2025 Essence Festival?

Essence Fest attracts many big-name celebrities and powerful performers. In the past, notable headliners like Beyoncé, Janet Jackson, Usher, Aretha Franklin, and Mary J. Blige have taken the stage in the Superdome.

This year’s show, celebrating 55 years of storytelling and culture, promises to be just as exciting! Here’s the musical lineup for the evening concert series.

Main Stage at the Superdome:

• Boyz II Men
• Davido
• Maxwell
• Master P.
• GloRilla
• The Isley Brothers
• Nas
• Summer Walker
• Babyface
• Jill Scott & Friends
• Patti LaBelle
• Jazmine Sullivan
• Erykah Badu

Superlounge at the Superdome:

• Ari Lennox
• Donell Jones
• Muni Long
• Psiryn

There will also be a Quincy Jones tribute curated by Grammy-winning producer Jermaine Dupri. The “Essence Flowers” tribute will feature artists like Tyrese, Al B. Sure!, Robin Thicke, SWV, Xscape, They Pharcyde, and Mobb Deep. 

Master P’s final performance is also sure to be a showstopper, as he’ll be joined on stage by Mia X, Sikk The Shocker, Bone Thugs-N-Harmony, Dru Hill, and Keri Hilson. 

How to Attend Essence Fest

Whether you’re planning to catch a single show or go all in for the full weekend, the 2025 Essence Festival offers a variety of ticket options to match your vibe. You can choose from single-day passes, full weekend packages, or VIP upgrades that add extra perks and premium experiences. Concert ticket prices can vary depending on the night and performer, so it’s best to check the official website for the most up-to-date details.

Local Tip: Big names mean big crowds—so if there’s a headliner you don’t want to miss, grab your tickets early before they sell out!

Daytime programming at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center is completely free and open to the public — no ticket required. You’ll also find tons of sponsor activations, brand lounges, and pop-up experiences throughout downtown New Orleans. Keep an eye on the website for options to RSVP or register in advance for some of the free events and experiences.

What to Expect at the 2025 Essence Festival

Essence Fest is packed with events that celebrate, empower, and entertain — from inspiring daytime programming to high-energy concerts at night.

Daytime Events (10 AM – 4 PM)

Most of the daytime experiences take place at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center and are free to attend. You’ll find a dynamic mix of panels, workshops, and immersive experiences throughout the venue, as well as special events hosted at various locations around downtown New Orleans. 

Here are some of this year’s experiences:

• GU Creators House – tools, resources, and support for influencers to master content creation
• SOKO MRKT – explore, shop & support emerging Black-owned businesses 
• Essence Film Festival – original projects in film, TV, music, and new media
• Essence Wellness House – expert-led discussions on diet culture, fitness, mental health, nutrition, and self-image
• Essence Authors – candid conversations about writing and publishing
• Community Impact Hub – panel discussions, workshops,  and keynote sessions led by thought leaders, activists, and community organizers
• New Voices Village – pop-ups, demos, mini-workshops, and office hours for entrepreneurs
• BeautyCon – hands-on beauty tutorials, style showcases, and immersive presentations
• Essence Food & Wine Festival – food and spirit showcases and expert-led programming
• Suede Men’s Experience – inaugural launch of the initiative to support Black men in expanding their horizons

Evening Concerts (starting at 6 PM)

Once the sun sets, the party moves to the Superdome with a star-studded lineup of R&B, hip-hop, gospel, soul, and funk. These evening concerts require a paid ticket.

What’s the difference between the mainstage and superlounge? Mainstage shows are the big concerts with reserved seating and feature the festival’s top headliners (like Boyz II Men and Babyface). 

With your concert ticket, you’ll also have access to the superlounges — smaller, more intimate spaces within the Superdome where emerging and buzzworthy artists perform. Superlounge sets are general admission, so it’s a good idea to arrive early since space can fill up quickly.

Tips for the 2025 Essence Fest

What should I wear to Essence Fest?

New Orleans in July is hot — we’re talking highs in the 90s with plenty of humidity. Thankfully, most of the festival takes place indoors, but you’ll still want to be ready for the sticky heat outside and the chilly A/C inside.

Style is part of the fun at Essence Fest, so go ahead and plan a few standout looks — there are photo ops everywhere. Just remember, you may be walking between venues, standing in lines, or spending long hours at events, so aim for a balance of fashion and comfort. Think breathable fabrics, comfy shoes, and maybe a light layer for those cool indoor spaces.

What should I bring to Essence Festival?

There is a clear bag policy in effect for all events at Caesars Superdome, including Essence Fest. Anything you bring with you needs to fit inside a clear bag or a small clutch. Learn more here. 

What to Eat at Essence Fest

You definitely won’t go hungry at Essence Fest – or in New Orleans, for that matter. NOLA is a great place for foodies! Inside the Convention Center, there’ll be dozens of vendors serving everything from Southern comfort food to global flavors, with plenty of vegan and vegetarian options as well. You’ll also find cooking demos, live podcast tapings, and special food events that are fun to check out.

If you’re venturing out nearby for a meal, some of our favorite local spots include Cafe Sbisa, Lil Dizzy’s Cafe, and Vyoone’s. 

How do I get to Essence Fest?

Most events at Essence Fest take place in two major locations: the Convention Center during the day and the Superdome at night. To get to Essence Fest, you can walk, ride a bike, use public transportation, or ride share to avoid having to look for and pay for parking. 

If you stay near the festival, it’ll be easier to get there!

Get the App

Download the official Essence Festival of Culture E360 app to help plan your itinerary and navigate each festival day. You’ll need the app for daytime events at the Convention Center, plus it’ll give you info on panels, performances, and giveaways. 

Planning Ahead

If you want to attend the free daytime events, be sure to register ahead of time so you don’t have to worry about anything when you get there. For the concert series and special events, tickets are required and tend to sell out quickly, especially for major headliners,  so it’s smart to book early. 

Where to Stay For Essence Festival 2025

Staying close to the action makes your Essence Fest experience even better. When choosing where to stay for Essence Fest, being nearby is convenient. Check out our list of vacation rentals within walking distance of the Superdome for easy festival access and plenty of space and privacy.

Have questions about planning your visit to New Orleans for Essence Fest? Our local team is happy to give you our insider tips and help you plan the ultimate festival experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Find quick answers to common questions about dates, venues, and performance schedules for the 2025 Essence Festival in New Orleans.

When and where does the 2025 Essence Festival take place?

The 2025 Essence Festival of Culture is held from Thursday, July 3, through Sunday, July 6, 2025, in New Orleans, Louisiana. Events are primarily split between the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center for free daytime programming and the Caesars Superdome for the ticketed nightly concert series.

Who is headlining the 2025 Essence Festival concerts?

The 2025 musical lineup features major headliners including Maxwell, Boyz II Men, Nas, Jill Scott, Erykah Badu, and The Isley Brothers. Additionally, the festival will host a special “Essence Flowers” tribute to Quincy Jones, curated by Jermaine Dupri and featuring artists like Tyrese, Robin Thicke, and SWV.

Is the daytime programming at the Convention Center free to attend?

Yes, the daytime events at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center are free and open to the public, though advance registration is required. These sessions typically run from 10 AM to 4 PM and include the SOKO MRKT marketplace, empowerment panels, and wellness workshops at the Essence Wellness House.

What is the difference between Main Stage and Superlounge performances?

Main Stage performances are large-scale, seated stadium shows featuring the festival’s primary headliners, while Superlounges offer a more intimate, club-like atmosphere for catching rising stars. Your evening concert ticket typically grants access to both the main stadium performances and all smaller lounge stages within the Superdome.

How should I dress for Essence Fest in New Orleans?

Attendees should prioritize breathable, lightweight clothing and comfortable walking shoes to navigate the summer heat and large venues. While the festival is a major fashion event where many guests wear “statement” outfits, remember that New Orleans in July is humid and steamy, and you will likely do a significant amount of walking.

What is the best way to get to the festival venues?

The most efficient ways to reach the Superdome and Convention Center are walking, ride-sharing, or using public transportation to avoid the high cost and scarcity of event parking. For the best experience, many visitors choose to stay in vacation rentals within the Warehouse District or Central Business District to remain within walking distance of the main activities.

Have more questions?

Check out our FAQ page for more details.