Care Necessities: EFOC Veterans Share Their Festival Must-Haves
We asked repeat attendees of the ESSENCE Festival of Culture™ presented by Coca-Cola® to share the wellness essentials that help them enjoy our “party with a purpose” without skipping a beat.
This story is featured in the July/August 2023 issue of ESSENCE, available on newsstands soon.
The 2023 ESSENCE Festival of Culture, presented by Coca-Cola, is back in New Orleans for its 29th year. Whether you travel there for the performances, for the programming, or to revel in the sisterhood, the event doesn’t disappoint. Although EFOC is always a good time, it’s essential to be prepared for what it entails: lots of walking under the sweltering NOLA sun among large crowds. We asked several veteran EFOC attendees to weigh in on wellness products needed for a great experience for novice and seasoned festival-goers alike.
01
01
LIQUID I.V. Energy Multiplier
“For me, attending ESSENCE Festival of Culture is a rite of passage. I’ve been going since 2016. I know exactly where I’ll be every year for the Fourth of July. Whether it’s for the day after a long night of partying in the French Quarter or just for a little energy boost, I keep a travel-size pack of Liquid I.V. in my purse, to pour into a bottle of water or a soft drink. It instantly revitalizes and keeps me from becoming dehydrated.” —Monique Mitchell, 35, AtlantaAvailable at
“I have had the honor of attending the ESSENCE Festival five times. My husband and I love it and cannot wait to participate each year. I can always rely on my Nike Air Maxes to carry me to all the events and through New Orleans’ cobblestone streets.” —Gabrielle Gambrell, 36, Westchester County, New York
“I’ve attended ESSENCE Festival as media or talent five times, but every festival is a vibe! I suggest a fan, to be cool and comfortable in the humid NOLA streets. I’m a hot girl, and I’m also super sweaty. A portable fan will be your best friend.” —Jamé Jackson, 30, New York City
“I’ve been to ESSENCE Festival of Culture about six times. Growing up on the Gulf Coast near New Orleans, I was introduced to it by my parents. I attended the first time with them! I always pack my Mela Daily Essentials Vitamins for Women of Color. The Black-owned brand ensures that you have the energy to power through the lineup of musical events and sessions.” —Jasmine Clennon, 35, Los AngelesAvailable at
“I’ve attended ESSENCE Festival of Culture five times. What I love about the event is the location. Whoever decided on NOLA was a genius—it’s perfect. But if I’m going to walk around New Orleans all day, I’m going to need lots of water, to hydrate and to balance out all of the daiquiris.” —Sydnei Jarman, 32, Atlanta
“My memories of the ESSENCE Festival are filled with nostalgia and tradition. I’ve been attending for 20-plus years. A light sweater for the cold convention halls is a must, while a portable fan is necessary for the New Orleans heat.” —Sharon Mitchell, 64, AtlantaAvailable at
