For more than half a century, ESSENCE Magazine has served as the heartbeat of Black culture — amplifying stories, celebrating achievements, and shaping conversations that reflect the richness and resilience of the Black community. In 2025, that spirit takes center stage once again as the ESSENCE Festival of Culture® presented by Coca-Cola® returns to its forever home, New Orleans, for another iconic Independence Day weekend celebration.

From Friday, July 4, through Sunday, July 6, 2025, the Big Easy will transform into a dynamic playground for music, culture, empowerment, and connection. Whether you're planning to walk the streets of New Orleans or join virtually, one thing is certain: the 2025 ESSENCE Festival will be an experience for the ages.

From the Page to the Stage: A Celebration 55 Years in the Making

This year’s Festival is more than an event — it’s a living tribute to 55 years of ESSENCE Magazine’s commitment to elevating Black voices and visions. What began as a groundbreaking magazine in 1970 has evolved into an unrivaled cultural phenomenon, and the ESSENCE Festival of Culture® remains one of the largest and most impactful celebrations of Black excellence anywhere in the world.

The Festival’s legacy is more than music — it’s a convergence of heritage, creativity, and empowerment, making it a must-attend for Houstonians and beyond who crave both connection and inspiration. Over the years, ESSENCE has bridged the gap between generations, and this milestone year underscores how deeply intertwined the publication’s mission is with the culture it champions.

An All-Star Lineup: Legends, Icons & Culture Shapers

The 2025 ESSENCE Festival of Culture® presented by Coca-Cola® promises to electrify audiences with a powerhouse lineup. The evening concert series at the Caesars Superdome will feature a dazzling fusion of music royalty, from celebrated R&B icons to global chart-toppers.

Headlining the festival stage will be:

Boyz II Men – The kings of harmony return to captivate hearts.

Davido – Nigeria’s Afrobeats ambassador bringing global vibes to the Crescent City.

Maxwell – A soulful crooner and former ESSENCE Magazine cover star.

Master P – New Orleans’ own hip-hop mogul making a homecoming fit for royalty.

Buju Banton – Reggae legend bringing roots and rhythm.

Donell Jones, Muni Long, GloRilla, The Isley Brothers, Nas, and Summer Walker – each representing the past, present, and future of Black music.

And in a celebration befitting ESSENCE’s 55-year milestone, Jermaine Dupri will present a moving tribute entitled "ESSENCE Flowers" — honoring the legacy of the legendary Quincy Jones, whose influence on global music is immeasurable.

The night’s magic will be guided by none other than Anthony Anderson and Kenny Burns, who will serve as the evening’s charismatic hosts.

More Than Music: Daytime Experiences That Empower and Inspire

While the Superdome stages shine at night, the heart of the ESSENCE Festival beats strongest during the day. Hosted at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, the daytime experiences are a cultural oasis offering thought-provoking panels, interactive activations, and vibrant spaces curated for connection, education, and celebration.

Returning favorites and new additions include:

ESSENCE Food & Wine Festival™ – Flavors and conversations that nourish the body and soul.

BEAUTYCON™: @ESSENCEFEST Edition – Where beauty meets culture, creativity, and community.

AFROPUNK BLKTOPIA™ – A haven for self-expression and unapologetic Black creativity.

ESSENCE Film Festival® by ESSENCE STUDIOS™ – Amplifying stories that matter.

SOKO MRKT™ by ESSENCE® – Showcasing Black entrepreneurship at its finest.

And many more vibrant cultural spaces, including the ESSENCE® GU® Kickback, ESSENCE Authors™, and GBEF® HQ. Whether you're soaking in wisdom from industry trailblazers, discovering your next favorite Black-owned brand, or dancing to the rhythms of global superstars, the Festival offers something transformative for every visitor.

A Cultural Movement with Global Impact

Beyond the music, beyond the panels, the ESSENCE Festival of Culture® remains an economic and social engine. Since returning to in-person experiences, the festival has generated nearly $1 billion in economic impact for New Orleans and continues to uplift the community by creating jobs, opportunities, and lasting partnerships.

The Festival is more than an event—it’s a living, breathing archive of Black culture. With each passing year, ESSENCE continues to expand its reach while staying rooted in the values that have shaped it for generations: excellence, empowerment, and unity.

Be Part of the Celebration

As the ESSENCE Festival of Culture® presented by Coca-Cola® marks this historic 55th anniversary, the invitation is open to all who wish to celebrate Black brilliance, community, and creativity. Tickets for the evening concert series and daytime experiences are available now via the E360 app, offering personalized schedules, special offers, and real-time updates.

Stay locked in for updates by following @ESSENCEFest on Instagram, Facebook, and X — and subscribe to ESSENCE Magazine for year-round stories, inspiration, and exclusive content.

For more info, visit ESSENCE