For three decades, the Essence Festival of Culture has united a diverse group of individuals worldwide to bond over conversation, shared experiences, and music. The nation’s largest annual celebration of Black culture recently concluded with performances by Janet Jackson and a tribute to Frankie Beverly & Maze, marking Beverly’s farewell from live performances. Other artists like Victoria Monét, Teedra Moses, and Tank and the Bangas also graced the stage during the festival.
Barkue Tubman-Zawolo, chief of staff for Essence Ventures, emphasized the festival’s role in connecting the global Black community and celebrating various Black cultures. She highlighted the Film Festival showcasing storytellers from Nigeria, Ghana, and the Caribbean, and the Food and Wine stage where Caribbean and African cuisine were discussed. The event also featured the Soko Market Place with vendors from around the world and performances by Caribbean and African artists.
New Orleans Mayor Latoya Cantrell praised this year’s festival theme of “We Love Us,” emphasizing its role in fostering community building. The event has had a significant economic impact on the city and state, generating over $300 million since its inception in 1994. Started to commemorate Essence magazine’s 25th anniversary, the festival has evolved to engage the local community and showcase its culture.
While the current contract ends in 2026, Essence Ventures CEO Caroline Wanga has expressed New Orleans as the festival’s “forever home.” Mayor Cantrell echoed this sentiment, highlighting the city’s readiness to host the event. She emphasized the strong foundation laid over the festival’s 30-year history, indicating New Orleans as the ideal host for future editions.
