[EMBARGO] Cardi B, Patti LaBelle, Kehlani, Latto, Brandy & Monica Confirmed for ESSENCE Festival of Culture® 2026

In celebration of Women’s History Month, ESSENCE Festival of Culture® presented by Coca-Cola® has unveiled the first wave of performers for the 2026 Evening Concert Series, taking place July 3–5 at the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans. The lineup celebrates women who have shaped music and culture across generations.

Headlining the first announcement are Cardi B, Patti LaBelle, Kehlani, Latto, and former ESSENCE cover stars Brandy and Monica. The artists represent multiple eras and genres, reflecting women who have broken barriers and built lasting careers on their own terms. Additional performers, special guests, and programming will be announced ahead of the festival.

Program Schedule:

Evening Concert Series (July 3–5 | Caesars Superdome)

·         Performances by: Cardi B, Patti LaBelle, Kehlani, Latto, Brandy, and Monica

Daytime Programming – Ernest N. Morial Convention Center

·         ESSENCE Food & Wine Festival™

·         BEAUTYCON™: @ESSENCEFEST Edition

·         AFROPUNK BLKTOPIA™

·         ESSENCE Film Festival® by ESSENCE Studios™

·         ESSENCE Stage™

·         SOKO MRKT™ by ESSENCE®

·         ESSENCE Authors™

·         ESSENCE® GU® Kickback

·         GBEF® HQ

Tickets for the 2026 ESSENCE Festival of Culture® Evening Concert Series are on sale now. Festivalgoers are encouraged to secure accommodations early and plan their weekend through the E360 app for schedules, updates, and exclusive offers.

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