I’ve heard the whispers on Beyoncé’s web, the murmurs suggesting that Essence Competition has someway misplaced its “essence.” And whereas it’s true that the expertise has developed, and there’s all the time room for a bit of extra streamlined administration, I’m right here to let you know definitively that these claims are removed from the mark. Our folks had been there, in droves. Representing the colourful spirit of Black tradition and group. They had been, indisputably, having an absolute ball. The vitality was palpable, a testomony to the enduring energy of this unbelievable gathering.
The annual Essence Competition of Tradition, often called “a celebration with a objective,” has grown considerably since its inception in 1995. It was initially a single occasion commemorating Essence Journal’s twenty fifth anniversary. It now attracts a whole lot of 1000’s to the Crescent Metropolis annually. Over the previous 20 years, the pageant has turn into a significant platform for selling, celebrating, and exploring varied aspects of our group. From well being & wellness, spirituality, magnificence & model, meals, group & tradition, leisure, and entrepreneurship.
This millennial has determined to share a few of the experiences, stays and eats which might be certain to make your Essence Competition one to recollect shifting ahead.
The pageant gives an array of experiences, together with partaking panel discussions, numerous buying alternatives, meet-and-greets and actions on the Ernest N. Morial Conference Middle. The Superdome hosts steady stay music, showcasing high artists in R&B, soul, funk, gospel, and hip-hop. Past these official occasions, quite a few activations happen all through the town. Listed here are a few of the most memorable ones.
The Occasions
Sheaversity with SheaMoisture
One factor about this magnificence model, they’re gonna have a time! SheaMoisture lit up Essence Fest weekend with a vibrant celebration of Sheaversity—a joyful tribute to individuality, tradition, and group. From immersive experiences to star-studded moments, the model created an unforgettable presence on and off the yard. The Sheaversity Roll Name welcome celebration was full with dope music, drinks, vibes and a few of our favourite content material creators. To not point out, the NOLA GOAT, Juvenile, gave us a once-in-a-lifetime efficiency.
On the Conference Middle, festival-goers had been invited to step into the world of SheaMoisture with interactive model activations, hair styling stations, unique product drops, and loads of surprises. Saturday morning introduced the Sheaversity takeover to Loretta’s Genuine Pralines. Company indulged in a customized café combo—two iconic beignets and an Arnold Palmer—on the home. There have been additionally complimentary SheaMoisture samples and a curated weekend syllabus to boost the Essence vibes.
Then, they took heart stage at Beautycon contained in the Conference Middle. Hosted by Netflix star Eternally’s Lovie Simone and journalist Asia Ware, the section featured a celebration of Miss Sheaversity and breathtaking seems from celeb stylist and SheaMoisture Schooling Accomplice Lacy Redway. It was a second of magnificence, brilliance, and Black woman magic that left the viewers impressed.
From the sales space to the beignets, SheaMoisture made certain the Sheaversity spirit was alive all weekend lengthy—celebrating tradition, group, and self-expression in true Essence Fest style.
Nationwide City League Girls in Concord Luncheon
Subsequent, the Nationwide City League hosted its sixth Annual Girls in Concord Awards Luncheon. Held on the Ritz-Carlton in New Orleans, we celebrated Black ladies who lead, create, and remodel. Beneath the theme Her Energy, Her Prosperity, the purple carpet affair honored Patti LaBelle, Mara Brock Akil, U.S. Rep. Jasmine Crockett, and Danessa Myricks. Over 350 friends loved inspiring speeches, performances by GRAMMY winners Howard Hewett and MAJOR, and a wellness-focused Self-Care Lounge that includes magnificence activations from Danessa Myricks Magnificence and others. NUL President Marc H. Morial and SVP Rhonda Spears Bell praised the honorees for utilizing their platforms to uplift and empower communities nationwide.
Kensington Gray x EssenceGU Creator Mixer
Kensington Gray and Essence GU hosted an unforgettable #HouseOfInfluence mixer within the coronary heart of New Orleans. Held on the fashionable Frequent Home, the occasion introduced collectively a dynamic group of creators, purchasers, and culture-shapers for a night of meals, drinks, and connection.
The area buzzed with good vibes and significant conversations as friends dripping in all-white seems mingled with the groups behind Kensington Gray and Essence GU. The mixer served as a celebration of creativity, collaboration, and the influential energy of Black voices shaping the digital area and past.
With a backdrop of music, curated bites, and real group, #HouseOfInfluence lived as much as its title—creating an area the place expertise and affect got here collectively in true Essence Fest model.
Black Excellence Brunch
In a strong tribute to Black pleasure, magnificence, and cultural brilliance, the Black Excellence Brunch, based by Trell Thomas, partnered with L’Oréal USA for an unique, invite-only expertise throughout Essence Competition 2025. Set towards the elegant backdrop of Messina’s on the Terminal, the all-white-attire brunch introduced collectively changemakers, creatives, and cultural tastemakers from throughout the nation.
The afternoon was a vibrant celebration of Black excellence, that includes elevated eating, inspiring storytelling, and intentional group constructing. Honoring trailblazers throughout magnificence, sports activities, and leisure, the occasion highlighted the plain affect and resilience of Black leaders who proceed to form the tradition.
Notable attendees included the astounding Olympian Jordan Chiles, media powerhouse Angela Rye, actress Crystal Renee Hayslett, R&B singer Raheem DeVaughn, actress Tia Alexandria, and L’Oréal USA ambassadors and executives. The ambiance was electrical with connection, objective, and delight, reinforcing the brunch’s mission to honor legacy whereas constructing a thriving future.
The Black Excellence Brunch x L’Oréal USA partnership was a standout second of Essence Competition. Black tradition wasn’t simply celebrated, it was centered and elevated.
The Stays
The Pontchartrain Resort
Steeped in Southern model and distinct European aptitude, The Pontchartrain Resort blends trendy luxurious with its authentic 1927 structure. This historic lodge, conveniently situated on the St. Charles Avenue streetcar line, gives anything-but-ordinary lodging.
Throughout the luxurious confines of the lodge, friends can select from a trio of outstanding eating and leisure choices. Perched excessive above the town, Scorching Tin gives a complicated rooftop lounge expertise. It’s excellent for having fun with handcrafted cocktails and panoramic views. For a extra formal culinary journey, Jack Rose, the lodge’s signature restaurant, presents an beautiful menu crafted with the best elements. These searching for a pleasant begin to their day will discover the Silver Whistle Café able to serve a scrumptious breakfast.
Past its culinary choices..
The lodge is residence to the really iconic Bayou Bar, a vibrant jazz spot steeped in historical past and legend. This energetic institution will not be solely famend because the very birthplace of the New Orleans Saints NFL crew, nevertheless it additionally boasts a storied previous as a popular hang-out of Hollywood’s elite. Literary big Tennessee Williams and legendary crooner Frank Sinatra had been among the many celebrated figures who often graced its hallowed halls, including to its wealthy tapestry of allure and attract.
Resort Monteleone
Resort Monteleone, a historic and impartial family-owned property, has graced the French Quarter for over a century, now below its fifth technology of possession. This iconic 523-room lodge blends timeless luxurious with trendy comforts, highlighted by the just lately renovated Iberville Tower.
Famend for its distinctive choices, Resort Monteleone is residence to the Carousel Bar & Lounge, New Orleans’ first and solely revolving bar. Culinary delights await at Criollo Restaurant, the place seasonal, ingredient-driven menus showcase the perfect of New Orleans delicacies.
With an unique rooftop pool and a central French Quarter location, Resort Monteleone offers the proper base for exploring New Orleans’ vibrant tradition.
The Eats
Drago’s
No go to to New Orleans or Essence Competition is actually full with out indulging within the culinary delight that’s Drago’s chargrilled oysters. This iconic dish has turn into synonymous with a quintessential NOLA expertise. Drawing in locals and vacationers alike with its irresistible aroma and mouth-watering taste. The oysters, recent from the Gulf, are grilled to perfection over an open flame. Their pure brininess enhanced by a beneficiant bathtub of garlic butter, a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, and a secret mix of herbs and spices.
Jack Rose
Fingers down, this was among the best meals I’ve ever had. An homage to Tennessee Williams’ play ‘The Rose Tattoo,’ the lodge’s signature restaurant is a manifestation of New Orleans’ love of celebration by way of food and drinks. This spot gives an eclectic and vibrant eating expertise that appears like residence within the Backyard District. The Lil Wayne portrait is the proper love letter.
Criollo
Very similar to the town of New Orleans, this restaurant is a vibrant mix of cultures. Its ingredient-driven, seasonal menus artfully mix land and sea, reaching a pleasant steadiness of long-standing custom and up to date tastes. It has a powerful deal with the abundance of the Gulf and a definite Louisiana aptitude.
The Drinks
Scorching Tin
First, an intimate rooftop bar. This former penthouse gives champagne and vibrant cocktails. A 270-degree panorama of Downtown New Orleans and the Mississippi River. The inside, designed to evoke a Nineteen Forties artist’s loft, is ethereal and eclectic. It options comfy couches and a fascinating show of curios that mix the previous with the current. Glass accordion doorways open to a balcony with unparalleled Downtown views. A extra non-public second terrace offers a chicken’s-eye perspective of Saint Charles Avenue.
Carousel Bar
The world-renowned Carousel Bar, an iconic vacation spot for over 70 years, continues to spin. Having served numerous cocktails and witnessed notorious rendezvous involving figures like Liberace, Tennessee Williams, and Louis Prima. Mixologist Marvin Allen and Tour Director Mike Dupree lead an in-depth, non-public exploration of the bar’s illustrious historical past, highlighting its legendary patrons and celebrated cocktails. It contains the quintessential Sazerac and Resort Monteleone’s personal masterpiece, the Vieux Carré. An awesome cease in your Essence Competition tour!
St. Noir Cafe
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Final however not least, St. Noir, situated within the vibrant Higher eighth Ward, is greater than only a café. It’s a hub for group and intentional residing. This Black-owned institution seamlessly combines distinctive espresso and beautiful wine with fastidiously curated occasions that champion artwork, tradition, and social connection. With soulful playlists and collaborations with native leaders, St. Noir is a necessary cease for anybody desirous to expertise the vitality of New Orleans’ up to date Black Renaissance. Don’t miss their divine Praline Au Lait and praline croissant.
The Final 2025 Essence Competition Recap
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