Contributed by Amber Cooper

Essence has officially announced its star-studded lineup for this year’s Essence Festival. For more than 25 years, Essence has brought together brands, vendors and communities from all over the country to New Orleans, LA, known as NOLA to “Party with a Purpose.”

This year, the lineup is filled with major stars like Bruno Mars, headlining for the first time ever. Janet Jackson, Patti Labelle and Doug E. Fresh are also among the many top performers confirmed for the festival.

Stars like Janelle Monae, Summer Walker, Ari Lennox and Jidenna are among the “must-see performers” and to top it off, Loni Love will be returning as the main host! Every year, Essence Festival has helped bring in revenue for NOLA and created a bigger platform for black-owned businesses.

The festival is committed to promoting, celebrating and exploring health & wellness, spirituality, beauty & style, food, community & culture, entertainment, entrepreneurship and much more within the African American community, as neworleans.com states.  There is never a dull year. 

Billboard.com honors the festival saying, “ESSENCE Magazine’s “Party with a Purpose” has grown over 25 years to one of the premiere gatherings for Black music, entertainment and culture.”

Check out the growing list of star-studded performers here.