Essence Festival

Some big acts are headlining Essence Music Festival in New Orleans, the annual showcase of African-American musical talent hosted by Essence Magazine, which brings some star-striking names to a city that isn't easily impressed by superstar musicians... including Missy Elliott, Ms. Lauryn Hill, Megan Thee Stallion, just to name a few. This year's festival is placing an extra emphasis on the history of hip-hop, and a celebration on how the genre has impacted American culture. 

In additional to offering superb celebrity and music, the festival—which takes place at the Caesar's Superdome—provides inspirational and business-related seminars as well as arts markets to showcase the work of African-American writers, craftsmen and women, and visual artists. Tickets start at $80 per night. essence.com/essencefestival2023.