Essence Festival

Some big acts are headlining Essence Music Festival in New Orleans, the annual showcase of African-American musical talent that brings some very big names to a city that isn't easily impressed by superstar musicians... but of course Nicki Minaj, Janet Jackson, the Isley Brothers, The Roots & Friends, or the many other acts would be sure to sell tickets. In additional to offering superb celebrity and music, the festival 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. essence.com/festival.