NEW ORLEANS (WVUE) - Organizers for the ESSENCE Festival of Culture revealed the first performers for the 2026 event, highlighting a lineup led by women across multiple eras of music.
In a social media video announcement, a typewriter reveals the names of several artists set to take the stage this summer, including Brandy & Monica, Patti LaBelle, Latto, Cardi B and Kehlani.
Festival organizers said the early lineup announcement centers on a “Ladies First” theme celebrating influential voices in music.
“You asked and we heard you loud and clear,” organizers wrote in the announcement. “The countdown to ESSENCE Festival has officially begun and in true ESSENCE fashion, we’re starting with Ladies First.”
From legendary performers who helped shape R&B and soul to newer chart-topping artists, the festival said the women featured in this year’s lineup represent the evolution of modern music.
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“From legendary voices who built the foundation to the Hitmakers running the charts today, the women of music are stepping onto the Superdome stage,” the announcement said.
The ESSENCE Festival of Culture presented by Coca-Cola will return to New Orleans during Fourth of July weekend, July 3–5, 2026.
The Caesars Superdome will once again host the festival’s headline performances, while additional programming and experiences will take place across the city throughout the weekend.
Organizers say more performers and experiences will be announced in the coming months.
“Across the weekend, you will feel the presence of the artists and eras that shape us,” organizers said.
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Tickets for ESSENCE Fest 2026 are now on sale.
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