FAQ
The ESSENCE Festival Of Culture® presented by Coca-Cola® will proudly return to our “forever home” of over three decades, New Orleans, on Thursday, July 3rd through Monday, July 7th.
All OFFICIAL updates on the 2025 ESSENCE Festival Of Culture® presented by Coca-Cola® can be found on ESSENCE Fest social channels, online, and in our E360 app. Don't believe any rumors—trust only us for the latest news and announcements!
We're rolling out daytime experiences and evening concert series announcements in phases. ALL OFFICIAL updates on the 2025 ESSENCE Festival Of Culture® presented by Coca-Cola® can be viewed and accessed via ESSENCE social, online, and in our E360 app - don't forget to turn on your push notifications to be the first to know all updates!
The ESSENCE Festival Of Culture® presented by Coca-Cola® curates each experience to reflect the interests and passions of Black audiences worldwide. Releasing the lineup in phases allows each moment to shine and ensures every artists gets the spotlight they deserve.
It is imporant for us to give each of our headliners their flowers because of their contribution to helping us blossom in a cultural staple.
Do you remember the first time you picked up an ESSENCE Magazine? For many of our attendees, being immersed in our brand is a lifelong experience. We're striving to make space for everyone's experience stage of their life to be considered. However, we will continue to honor those who are at our core.
The ESSENCE Festival Of Culture® presented by Coca-Cola® has previously given a platform to Black artists across Country, Afrobeats, Jazz, and more. We'll continue to showcase the influence Black musicians have across genres.
Planning an event for over three decades takes precision and care. We apply this same intentionality to every lineup announcement - and trust us, it'll be worth the wait.
Please contact Ticketmaster for any questions on potential refunds.
The inaugural ESSENCE Festival Of Culture® presented by Coca-Cola® shifted culture with a celebration of the 25th anniversary of ESSENCE Magazine featuring timeless musical legends Luther Vandross, Gladys Knight, and Aaliyah. Alongside, there were thought provoking leaders such as Reverend Jesse Jackson and Representative Maxine Waters, who celebrated the achievements of several generations of the Black community in a bold declaration of culture, pride, and empowerment.
Archived footage is available on Getty Images. For additional requests, reach out to the ESSENCE Festival Of Culture® press team at [email protected].
Please send all inquiries to the ESSENCE Festival Of Culture® Press Team at [email protected].
Reporters interested in covering the 2025 ESSENCE Festival Of Culture® can apply here. Please allow at least five business days for review and a status update on applications.
All information on ticketing availability can be found directly on Ticketmaster. Real-time updates can be found ESSENCEFest social channels, E360 app, and ESSENCEFest.com.
You are allowed reentry to daytime events at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center. However, there is no re entry allowed during the nightly concert series at the Caesar's Superdome.
There will be several family-friendly activities at the 2025 ESSENCE Festival of Culture®. Please ensure that all additional people traveling alongside you have proper registration and tickets to events where applicable. However, children are not permitted in the ESSENCE Festival of Culture® press room for all approved media.
Yes, service animals are allowed, however, dogs must be on a leash at all times and shots up to date. Please remember that DB levels are high near the stages and to be aware.
No. The Superlounge is now an exclusive part of the VVIP ticket tier. It is no longer open-access or available to general admission ticket holders. You will need to purchase a separate VVIP ticket at a cost of $500/night or $1250/weekend, in order to access the Superlounge.
No. The Superlounge is located within a restricted, private area that only VVIP ticket holders can access.. Wristbands and credentials will be strictly enforced at all entry points.
No. You may only access the VIP Club with a VIP ticket and the Superlounge with a Superlounge ticket (which is included in the VVIP ticket ) Floor-level does not automatically grant access to the ESSENCE VIP Club or Superlounge, unless you’ve purchased the appropriate pass.
No. The Superlounge is now an exclusive, VVIP-only experience. However, there will be a special “Superlounge Moment” on the Mainstage—open to all concertgoers, but distinct from the full Superlounge experience.
No. You will need to purchase a separate VVIP ticket via Ticketmaster at the full price of $500 per night or $1,250 for the weekend. VVIP tickets are extremely limited and are expected to sell out in advance.
Yes. A standalone Superlounge ticket is available for $500 per night and grants you access to the immersive music and food and beverage experience only. It does not include access to the ESSENCE VIP Club on the Superdome floor. If you want access to both the Superlounge and the VIP Club, purchase the full VVIP experience via Ticketmaster.
Only if your guest also has a valid VVIP ticket. Each individual must have their own VVIP wristband for entry—no exceptions.
The Superlounge has evolved to reflect a more curated and immersive experience—featuring exclusive artist performances, premium hospitality, and an intimate atmosphere. This change ensures a more elevated, intentional, and intimate environment for our community.
Yes. All Superlounge and VVIP ticket purchasers will receive email instructions in advance on when and where to pick up their tickets in New Orleans, either at the Caesars Superdome or the New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center during Festival hours. Be sure to bring a valid photo ID and the credit card used for purchase.