Welcome to our retrospective look at the groundbreaking 19th annual ESSENCE Festival of 2013, an event that set a record with over 540,000 attendees from all over the world. That year, the ESSENCE Festival expanded its cultural focus and placed a renewed emphasis on family. Looking , we can see how this festival’s legacy has continued to shape and inspire the events of today. As we approach the 31st ESSENCE Festival in 2025, we reflect on the rich history of this celebration and the impactful moments it has delivered over the years.
The 19th ESSENCE Festival: A Record-Breaking Event
Over 540,000 attendees from the globe descended upon New Orleans this Fourth of July weekend for the 19th annual ESSENCE Festival, making 2013 the largest in the event’s 19-year history. With an expanded cultural focus and renewed emphasis on family, the 2013 ESSENCE Festival celebrated its community of ESSENCE readers with an exciting array of entertainment and empowerment events.
Featuring Renowned and Innovators
Featuring more than 50 world-renowned and up-and-coming performing acts and over 120 of the world’s top ” target=”_blank”>, speakers, authors, leaders, innovators, and celebrities. The festival was a testament to the joy and optimism present in the African- community, as stated by ESSENCE Communications President Michelle Ebanks.
2013 Highlights
Highlights of the 2013 ESSENCE Festival included an incredible performance by Beyonce, plus headliners Maxwell, New Edition, Charlie Wilson, Brandy, Jill Scott, Janelle Monae, Trey Songz, Keyshia Cole, and many others. The festival also saw the first-ever partnership with MSNBC and the launch of the official ESSENCE Festival App.
Empowerment Experience Panels
Standing-room-only ESSENCE Empowerment Experience panels, presentations, and keynote addresses included a live set of Family Feud hosted by Steve Harvey, discussions on ending gun violence and education, and keynote addresses from Rev. Al Sharpton, Iyanla Vanzant, and Marc Morial.
We hope this look back inspires you as we move forward towards the 2025 ESSENCE Festival. Stay tuned for more updates and exciting news about this year’s event.
#ESSENCEFestival #Throwback #Music #Culture #Empowerment
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