Weekend Picks is your source for the best weekend activities in New Orleans. From live music to festivals, there’s plenty to do.  

This weekend in New Orleans, enjoy the ESSENCE Festival of Culture, Fourth of July fireworks, and more. See our picks for the weekend below. 

ESSENCE Festival of Culture   

This year, Essence Fest returns for its 31st year from July 3-6, 2025, with the theme We Are “Made Like This.” The lineup includes Boyz II Men, Davido, Maxwell, Master P, GloRilla, The Isley Brothers, Nas, and Summer Walker. Jermaine Dupri will perform a tribute to legendary producer Quincy Jones. Additionally, Babyface, Erykah Badu, Doug E. Fresh, Jill Scott & Friends, Patti LaBelle, Jazmine Sullivan, Muni Long, Keri Hilson, Buju Banton, The Isley Brothers, and Donell Jones will perform, plus you won't want to miss Master P’s Final Show, and the return of the Superlounge. Oh, and don’t forget to show some love to our Black-owned businesses while you’re in town. Check out our Ultimate Guide to Essence Fest here. Single day tickets start at $82, plus fees.   

Go Fourth on the River 

Enjoy a fireworks display in celebration of Independence Day on July 4! This family-friendly event will feature music throughout the day culminating in the fireworks display at 9 p.m. This event is free to attend. 

Tipitina's Free Fridays 

The ultimate summer concert series continues at Tipitina’s this Friday. For 15 weeks, music enthusiasts aged 21 and above can enjoy free live shows at the iconic Uptown music venue. This Friday features Soul Brass Band + Vegas Cola. Doors open at 8 p.m. and the show starts at 9 p.m. 

MAAFA 25th Anniversary Commemoration 

As we mark the 25th anniversary of MAAFA, the Ashe Cultural Arts Center invites you to an unforgettable morning of culture, community, and celebration at Congo Square on Saturday, July 5. This year’s theme, Homecoming: La Porte du Retour (The Door of Return), invites us to reflect, rejoice, and reunite. Come dressed in all white as a symbol of purity, remembrance, and spiritual renewal. The procession will march starting at 7 a.m. in Congo Square (701 N Rampart St.) and ending at the RTA Ferry Terminal.