The 2025 ESSENCE Festival of Culture® presented by Coca-Cola® is set to return to New Orleans from July 4 to July 6, 2025, celebrating 55 years of ESSENCE Magazine with the theme “Made Like This.” This year’s festival promises to honor Black culture through intentional, impactful experiences and nonstop entertainment that spans generations.
Hosted by comedian Anthony Anderson and media personality Kenny Burns, the Evening Concert Series will feature a lineup of both legendary performers and rising stars. Notable acts include Boyz II Men, R&B icon Maxwell, Nigerian superstar Davido, hip-hop legend Master P, and contemporary R&B sensation Summer Walker. The festival will also showcase the iconic Isley Brothers, beloved singer-songwriter Donell Jones, multifaceted hitmaker Muni Long, and lyrical legend Nas. Adding to the excitement, Grammy award-winning reggae superstar Buju Banton will also grace the stage.
A standout tribute at this year’s festival, curated by Grammy award-winning super producer Jermaine Dupri, will honor the legendary Quincy Jones in a can’t-miss celebration of his cherished musical legacy. This tribute is expected to be a highlight, paying homage to a figure who has significantly influenced the music industry.
Festival-goers can look forward to the return of fan-favorite experiences like BEAUTYCON™, ESSENCE Food & Wine Festival™, and ESSENCE Film Festival®. These experiences are designed to celebrate not just music but also the broader aspects of culture, empowerment, and legacy. As the festival continues to evolve, it remains a cornerstone of Black excellence, and this year, it’s set to go even bigger.
“We are Made Like This” speaks to the generations of Black brilliance that have shaped the world and continue to move it forward. This theme encapsulates the essence of the festival, which aims to uplift and celebrate the contributions of Black culture across various domains.
The ESSENCE Festival will be held across multiple venues in New Orleans, with daytime events and performances taking place at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center and evening concerts at the Caesars Superdome. This setup allows attendees to immerse themselves in a variety of experiences throughout the day and night.
In addition to the music and festivities, the festival aims to create a space for community engagement and cultural exchange. Organizers have emphasized the importance of legacy, rhythm, and resilience, which are core themes that resonate with attendees.
Last year’s festival was historic, featuring performances from iconic artists like Frankie Beverly, Birdman, Janet Jackson, and Usher, who celebrated the 20th anniversary of his acclaimed album, Confessions. The memories of last year’s electrifying performances are still fresh, and anticipation is building for what this year’s festival will deliver.
As the festival approaches, more performers are set to be announced in the coming weeks, adding to the excitement surrounding this year’s event. Weekend packages are currently available for purchase, and guests are encouraged to download the official ESSENCE Fest app for exclusive offers, real-time updates, and customized schedules.
The ESSENCE Festival of Culture continues to be a celebration of Black artistry, creativity, and culture, drawing attendees from across the country and beyond. With a commitment to honoring the past while looking toward the future, the festival promises to be an unforgettable experience for all who attend.
For those planning to attend, it’s time to gather friends and family, pack your bags, and prepare for a weekend filled with music, culture, and celebration. Follow @ESSENCEFest on X, Facebook, and Instagram for all the latest updates leading up to the festival.
