ESSENCE Fest returns July 3-6, 2025. Stay tuned to find out who's performing! Held over Fourth of July weekend at the Caesars Superdome and throughout downtown New Orleans, this multi-day party named for its founder and sponsoring magazine combines high-octane music performances with inspirational speakers and provocative conversations about gender, race, culture, and art. The popular event brings a slew of big names to New Orleans for large evening performances, intimate lounge shows, and DJ parties. By day, the Empowerment Experience spotlights dozens of speakers on thought-provoking topics such as religion, economics, and education. These are traditionally free.