One of the biggest festivals in New Orleans has gone virtual for 2020.
In lieu of massive crowds filling the Ernest N Morial Convention Center and Mercedes-Benz Superdome, Essence Festival of Culture will gather scores of people online for its event celebrating “music, entertainment, empowerment and culture.”
Virtual events begin at 4 p.m. June 25-28 and July 2-5.
The festival canceled its July 2020 event, which has been held in New Orleans since 1995 and drawn tens of thousands of attendees to the city. According to Essence, the festival is expected to return to the Crescent City next year.
“The Essence Festival of Culture: Unstoppable Virtual Experience” features live-streaming events with music, talks and wellness experiences.
Here’s what to know and when things are happening:
How do I access?
Go to Essence Studio and create an Essence ID to RSVP to the events.
When are the events?
June 25 | July 2 Wellness House: 4 p.m.-8:30 p.m.
- Meditation, conversations, workouts, tutorials to boost mental, physical and emotional wellbeing.
June 27 | July 4
- Pre-Show: 5 p.m.
Q&A with Hollywood faves, sneak peeks at upcoming releases. - Concerts: 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Artists include: Amanda Black, Andra Day, Bell Biv Devoe, Bruno Mars, Burna Boy, Chronixx, Common, Damian Marley, Diamond Platnumz, Doug E. Fresh, Elephant Man, Estelle, India Arie, John Legend, Ledisi, Nas, Patti Labelle Raphael Saadiq, Rapsody, Sauti Sol, Shaggy, Swizz Beatz and Wyclef.
June 27 | July 4 Seminars and Talks
- 12:30 p.m.: Wealth & Power seminars
Get information on “making strides in entrepreneurship, career and personal finance.” The seminars also include information on the 2020 candidates and current issues. - 4 p.m.: Beauty Carnival
Live tutorials and expert tops on “accentuating your own flawless beauty.”
June 28 | July 5 Gospel Sunday: 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
- Sunday worship and gospel performances.
