Essence Fest brings music, visitors and economic boost to N.O.

By Kelly Parker
Contributing Writer

The Essence Festival, known as “the party with a purpose,” began as event to commemorate Essence magazine’s anniversary in 1994. It now attracts visitors from all over the world over the 4th of July weekend. The Big Easy is ready for another memorable Fest, which this year will be held July 5-8.

Providing both music and a message, the Essence Fest has showcased some of the industry’s most celebrated acts and breakout artists, along with some of the most powerful influencers and motivational speakers. This year is no different.

Essence Fest 2018 will be a year of a few firsts, musically. Both Janet Jackson and Queen Latifah will make their Essence Main stage debuts. New Orleans’ own Big Freedia is going from the Beauty and Style Expo stage in 2017, to the Superlounge in ’18. And we already know, she never disappoints!

During the three days of concerts in the Mercedes Benz Superdome, acts on the main stage and the popular superlounges include Erykah Badu, Snoop Dog, Jill Scott, Teddy Riley, Idris Elba, Jussie Smollett, Daniel Caesar, H.E.R., The Roots and more.

The events held in the Morial Convention Center that once complimented the concerts have grown to stand as their own Essence entity.

Formerly called the Empowerment Seminars, this inspiring, good-for-the-soul get together is now an Experience. This year’s event includes Ivanya Vanzant, Angela Rye, Lester Holt, Michael Eric Dyson, Tarana Burke and more.

Touching on wealth, wellness, shopping, spirituality, culture, community and career, the Essence Experience engages in conversations, workshops and expos that educate, inspire and motivate. Attendees will take part in consultations, samples and also get a chance to get up close and personal with celebrities from film, television and music.

Essence is going all out for fashionistas and beauty enthusiasts with the Beauty & Style Expo this year. Thanks to the Essence Festival Beauty Bungalow, attendees can take advantage of mini makeovers, celebrity and influencer meet and greets, along with free hair and beauty products.

NOLA’s own Tracee Dundas and New Orleans Fashion Week will celebrate the history and evolution of NOLA fashion, in honor of the city’s Tricentennial. Get ready for a proud moment in celebration of fashion and heritage. The popular Marketplace, offers clothing, jewelry and art from over 100 vendors. Twenty-year-old NOLA native Bridgeja’ Baker, of Creative Jewelry by Bridgeja,’ LLC, is a Marketplace veteran vendor; has showcased her one-of-a kind pieces for nine consecutive years.

A favorite of many is the All-Star Gospel Tribute, which will honor the legend Dottie Peoples this year. Smokie Norful, Marvin Sapp, Regina Belle, and Tyronne G. Foster and the Arc Singers are just a few set to pay tribute. Bishop Lester Love also returns to kick off the inspirational Power Hour. This is the 10th anniversary of the Gospel Tribute.

The event has become so popular, registration to attend all conference and expo events is now required. Those looking to take part can go to the Essence website to register and download the app.

The festival brought more than 470,000 people to New Orleans, according to Essence Communications, and its annual economic impact has been pegged at $200 million.

This article originally published in the July 2, 2018 print edition of The Louisiana Weekly newspaper.