Description

Get the best group rates on New Orleans hotels and hotels near the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on NewOrleans.com.

The annual Essence Music Festival in New Orleans has been referred to as "the nation's largest annual African-American event celebrating Black music and culture" – and for good reason. More than 400,000 attendees pour into New Orleans every July for three days of music, seminars and networking events aimed at the African American community.

Essence Fest concerts are held in the Mercedes-Benz Superdome, and the nearby Ernest N. Morial Convention Center hosts educational workshops, inspirational lectures and seminars. Performers over the years have included Beyonce, Janet Jackson, Chris Rock, Kanye West, Patti LaBelle, Chris Brown, and LL Cool J. In 2010, Janet Jackson broke previous attendance records by selling out the Superdome to more than 72,000 fans.

If you’re in town for Essence Fest, be sure to get the full Big Easy experience! Book a New Orleans tour or activity.  

New Orleans Power Pass –  Free admission and discounts to more than 25 New Orleans attractions,  museums & activities.

Steamboat Natchez Harbor Cruise – A two-hour cruise along the Mississippi River (lunch optional).

Mardi Gras World – See the giant warehouse where Mardi Gras floats are designed and built.

Crescent City Cooks – Learn to cook essential Creole and Cajun dishes.

Check the Calendar of Events to find out more about what's happening in the Big Easy!

Schedule

2012 Artists and Speakers

Aretha Franklin
Big Sam’s Funky Nation
Charlie Wilson
Congresswoman Maxine Waters
Dr. Steve Perry
Dru Hill
Eric Roberson
Estelle
Fantasia
Fred Hammond
Goapele
Keyshia Cole
Khris Royal & Dark Matter
Kindred The Family Soul
Ledisi
Luke James
Mary J. Blige
Mary Mary
Raheem Devaughn
Rev. Al Sharpton
Stephanie Mills
Steve Harvey
SWV
Tank
The Original Pinettes Brass Band
The Pointer Sisters
The Stooges Brass Band
The Stylistics
Vivian Green