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Home • 2013 ESSENCE Music Festival

How to Make the Most of Your ESSENCE Festival Experience

There's a reason why the ESSENCE Festival chose New Orleans as its official city: it's one of country’s premiere tourist destinations for all things culture. Here are a few of our tips, with help from the New Orleans Convention and Visitors Bureau, on how to enjoy your visit to the Big Easy!
By Tyrus Townsend · Updated October 28, 2020
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01
Dress Code 101

The ESSENCE Festival is the place to dress to impress. Ladies, if you wear high heels, just make sure you can dance in them. And don’t forget that on the last night of the concerts (Sunday), attendees wear all white. It’s an ESSENCE tradition.

How to Make the Most of Your ESSENCE Festival Experience
02
Bilal

A lot of great acts, like Bilal, hit the Superlounges at the Festival. The Superlounges have a more intimate setting than the Main Stage, and they are the place to be to get up close and personal with some of your favorite musicians. It’s also an opportunity to discover new artists.

How to Make the Most of Your ESSENCE Festival Experience
03
Good Eats, Good Tips

There are hundreds of local restaurants around the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center and the Louisiana Superdome. Lucky for visitors, some local restaurants and catering vendors will be serving food in the Superlounges. Bring cash and leave generous tips for those who are working hard during the festivities.

How to Make the Most of Your ESSENCE Festival Experience
Danita Delimont
04
Embrace the Southern Hospitality

Enjoy the very best in Southern hospitality, especially at your designated hotels. New Orleans residents pride themselves on providing exceptional service, with a smile, so it is only fair to return the favor in tips. Take advantage of your hotel concierge, ask about discounted tickets to local arts institutions and request recommendations for places to hear great jazz. People are happy to help.

How to Make the Most of Your ESSENCE Festival Experience
Getty Images/ Antenna
05
Pass a Good Time

Have fun! Whether you’re checking out your favorite artist, like Solange, or doing some shopping in the Convention Center, there’s so much to do at the ESSENCE Festival. You might not be able to get to every event, but wherever you are, enjoy it. Meet new people, visit new places, and have a good time.

How to Make the Most of Your ESSENCE Festival Experience
Getty Images