The Essence Festival, also known as “the party with a purpose,” is an annual music festival that takes place in New Orleans, Louisiana. It’s a celebration of African American culture and music, featuring performances by some of the biggest names in R&B, hip-hop, and gospel. If you’re planning on attending the festival, here’s a guide to Essence Festival to help you make the most of your experience.
WHERE TO STAY IN NEW ORLEANS
When it comes to lodging, there are a variety of options available which is why accommodations are first up on this planning guide to essence festival. The festival takes place at the Superdome, so many attendees choose to stay in hotels nearby. Some popular options include the Hilton New Orleans Riverside, the InterContinental New Orleans, and the Sheraton New Orleans Hotel. These hotels are all within walking distance of the Superdome and offer easy access to the festival.
Another option is to stay in the French Quarter, which is a historic neighborhood known for its vibrant nightlife and great food. Hotels like the Royal Sonesta Hotel and the Bourbon Orleans Hotel are both located in the French Quarter and offer easy access to the festival via public transportation. Want to uplevel your stay even more with a layer of premium luxury? Let’s also talk about:
Maison de la Luz
Southern charm and hospitality with a side of romance.
Perks when booking through me:
- $100 food/beverage credit.
- Daily breakfast
- Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
The Roosevelt New Orleans A Waldorf Astoria Hotel
A premium location that has everything you’ll need for the best getaway including an award-winning restaurant, rooftop pool, and garden oasis.
Perks when booking through me:
- $100 food/beverage credit.
- Daily breakfast
- Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Four Seasons Hotel
Ultra-luxe, stylish rooms with floor-to-ceiling views of the Mississippi River are enough to bring you coming back to this hotel over and over again.
Perks when booking through me:
- $100 food/beverage credit.
- Daily breakfast for two guests
- Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
TIPS & PLANNING GUIDE TO ESSENCE FESTIVAL
The Essence Festival is more than just a music festival, it’s a celebration of culture and history. There are a variety of activities and events happening throughout the weekend, including the Empowerment Experience, which features a lineup of speakers and workshops focused on personal and professional development.
New Orleans is known for its delicious food and drinks, and the Essence Festival is no exception. There are a variety of food vendors offering everything from traditional New Orleans cuisine to international flavors. Some popular food items include jambalaya, gumbo, and beignets.
When it comes to drinks, the festival offers a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic options. Be sure to try a traditional New Orleans cocktail like a Hurricane or a Sazerac.
New Orleans is a very walkable city, and many of the festival events and activities are within walking distance of the Superdome. However, if you’re staying in the French Quarter or somewhere further away, you may want to consider other transportation options. The city has a good public transportation system, including buses and streetcars. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are also widely available. However, with the influx of visitors in town, many people opt to walk from location to location if possible. Plan accordingly because traffic increase is inevitable.
GENERAL TIPS
- Wear comfortable shoes, you’ll be doing a lot of walking
- Plan your schedule in advance and make a list of the events and activities you want to check out
- Pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat
- Bring a reusable water bottle, it will help you stay hydrated
- Be prepared for hot and humid weather
- Finally, have fun!
PLACES TO EXPLORE & THINGS TO DO IN NEW ORLEANS
In addition to the festival events, there are plenty of things to do in New Orleans. Visitors can take a stroll through the French Quarter, visit the famous Bourbon Street, or take a tour of the city’s historic cemeteries. When planning your Essence Fest itinerary be sure to include some of the following
- French Quarter Photo Shoot and Walking Tour
- Cajun & Creole Cooking Class
- Frenchman Street Music Pub Crawl
- Grab Cocktails and enjoy a Food History Tour
- French Quarter Sightseeing Carriage Ride
- Drunken History Walking Tour
FOOD & DRINKS IN NEW ORLEANS
BOOK YOUR ESCAPE
Essence Festival is a fantastic event that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a music lover, a foodie, or just looking for a fun weekend getaway, there’s something for you at this festival. With the right planning and preparation, you can make the most of your time in New Orleans and have an unforgettable experience.
Let’s design your next event-centered getaway with us at tmd Escapes to include everything you want for the ultimate experience. For more vacations or to book hotels or upgrade to private tours and transfers, get in touch now.
Get ready to explore with your personalized quote today.
TRAVEL ESSENTIALS
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