That One Time I Went To Essence Festival On A Budget

It was the summer of 2016. I was a fresh college graduate with my master’s degree from St. John’s University. No real job, more bills, and not sure what was going to happen for my future. I was in Atlanta and Savannah visiting my besties, Mozette and Jordan at the end of June for a few days. Those few days turned out to be an extended week. LOL (Thanks Mozette)

I extended my stay because I found out I was getting a ride to NOLA for Essence Festival. My good friend Skyra left NYC to move to Texas and decided to make a pitstop to Essence. I had never been to Essence and it was a real “YOLO” moment. I mean, why not? I didn’t have any obligations in NYC and thought this would be a good way to network for job opportunities. My first roadtrip through the south was amazing, one I will never forget. (Thanks Skyra)

Alot has changed since I went to my first Essence. The movie, ‘Girls Trip’ was released a year after we went and put Essence on the map. It became the ultimate “girls trip” destination since the movie came out. The movie became a box office as well. This year Essence celebrates their 25th anniversary. I am sure a lot of #blackgirlmagic will be taking over the city.

I had been to NOLA before for National Urban League Conference, but the vibe at Essence Fest was something different. It was truly a reunion with people from all walks of life that came together for the one event that can possibly change their lives. I grew up reading Essence and very aware of what the magazine brings to our community.

Mr. B’s Bistro and Ruby Slipper have become my two favorite places to eat in NOLA. Don’t forget to go to Bourbon Street and see how they party over there. Get a Hand Grenade from Tropical Isle, go to Cafe DuMonde for their chicory coffee & beignets and don’t forget to eat a “polboy sandwich.” Also, Riverwalk Mall is a cute area to watch the steamboats and they have a mall that has stores and eateries.

The food, the music, the parties, the concerts, and the panels were some of my highlights. The Marc Morial Convention Center was filled with panelists and workshops for “US.” I saw the tap group, Syncopated Ladies, daytime talk show, The Real, Omari Hardwick’s interview with an Essence editor, the cast of POWER made a guest appearance, and witnessed Mariah Carey and Charlie Wilson headline the festival. You can definitely go to Essence on a budget. I didn’t buy any of the passes, but ran into people that had a plug for EVERYTHING. The convention center has a list of FREE activities. People sent me free parties to attend as well. Just download the Essence Festival app. See, what I did there? The power of networking is 🔑.

Enjoy and be safe out there!