ESSENCE.com interviews Gina Montana, who works with the many vendors who sell unique products at the ESSENCE Festival in New Orleans July 4th weekend.

ESSENCE.com invited Shirley Sherrod to reflect on her passion for community service, her former U.S. Department of Agriculture role, and her Courage to Hope memoir.

Here are a few reasons to make the trip to New Orleans for the ESSENCE Festival.

Lady Tramaine Hawkins will be honored at the Gospel Tribute during the ESSENCE Festival.

The top 10 foods that you must try while attending the ESSENCE Festival in New Orleans during July 4th weekend.

ESSENCE Festival performer Tamia dishes on her upcoming performance and how much philanthropy means to her family.

A listing of the free Empowerment Experience panels taking place at the ESSENCE Festival in New Orleans on Sunday, July 7

A listing of the free Empowerment Experience panels taking place at the ESSENCE Festival in New Orleans on Saturday, July 6

A listing of the free Empowerment Experience panels taking place at the ESSENCE Festival in New Orleans on Friday, July 5

A listing of the free Empowerment Experience panels taking place at the ESSENCE Festival in New Orleans on Thursday, July 4