Since its 1995 debut, the ESSENCE Festival has helped shape, define, and celebrate African-American music and culture. Held every July 4 weekend at New Orleans' Superdome, the multi-day event initially was meant to be a one-time affair to celebrate the 25th anniversary of ESSENCE magazine.

But it proved to be such a powerful — and empowering — experience that it returned the following year, and has since grown into one of the U.S.'s biggest and most acclaimed annual festivals. "The party with a purpose" includes a stacked lineup of music's biggest names in hip-hop, R&B, soul, funk, and gospel, as well as several free panels and workshops, plus vendors focused on beauty, health and wellness, entrepreneurship, and more. It features five stages — the main stage as well as four standing-room-only "super lounges" throughout the Superdome. While you'll need to purchase tickets to catch the music, anyone can check out the free daily activities and panels held throughout the weekend.