2026 Lineup Announced For Essence Fest

Essence has announced its 2026 Essence Festival of Culture will return to New Orleans from July 3, 2026 through July 5, 2026 at the Caesars Superdome. In celebration of Women’s History Month, the company also revealed the festival’s first wave of performers. 

R&B artist Brandy and Monica, who recently went on their The Boy Is Mine Tour last fall are set to perform. Patti LaBelle, R&B singer Kehlani and rappers Cardi B and Latto were also announced as performers.

According to Essence, more performers and special guests will be announced in “a series of curated reveals that lead up to all the festival fun in July.” The three-day weekend ticket packages are available online at Ticketmaster.