Essence Festival: First Time Girl Trip

Squad of One

If you blinked too hard you may not have noticed the word “girl” in this blog’s title does not have an apostrophe.

Essence Music Festival started off as a plural trip.

In the planning stages, it turned into my first solo festival trip.

The year was 2016.

I was turning #Halfwayto70 (my social media birthday hashtag).

It got boring doing the same group birthday dinners year after year.

I was in the mood for something new, different, and unforgettable.

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I remembered the Essence Festival in New Orleans.

It was the “party with a purpose” for Black people all over the world!

I decided it would be “something new” for my 35^th birthday.

Essence Festival in The Crescent City

New Orleans was on my bucket-list forever.

I was always intrigued by its connection to my Creole roots, the food, music,  Bourbon Street, and the bayous.

I would watch movies and read books almost feeling like it was calling me.

All of my close friends were verbally invited on the trip to the Essence Festival.

It was January and the festival that year would start on the first of July (close to my birthday).

Everyone was excited! It would be a first for us all!

They agreed to come until “action time”.

I had looked into hotels, airlines and read every blog I could find on the topic.

Wishy-Washy

This was during my early days of relying on others for travel.

I was so disappointed when they bailed.

My solo bus rides prepared me for the moment I decided to plan my first solo Essence Festival trip.

The movie ‘Girls Trip” brought much fanfare to the Essence Festival. I found out later they were filming that year.

My arrival in New Orleans brought such a rush of deja-vu.

I think it was a combo of my detailed research and the spiritual ancestral link.

The blogs warned me of the Big Easy’s humidity. I wasn’t intimidated.

Miami’s weather had given me first-hand experience.

I looked forward to the southern hospitality and the random drawls of “bayyyybee”.

The Big Deal

Essence Festival is a very big deal in New Orleans. Recent numbers via Nola.com showed the festival raked in 280 million dollars in 2018.

For those unfamiliar, the festival stems from the Black women’s lifestyle magazine named Essence.

It’s a 3-day affair filled with conferences, concerts, parties, with Black people (mostly women) from all over the globe.

In 2019, the Essence Festival celebrated its 25th anniversary.

If you don’t identify as Black, don’t let that stop you from attending. All are welcomed who are willing to celebrate womanhood and culture with us.  

There are hundreds of travel groups/agencies that advertise packages each year. Be sure to follow these tips to avoid travel scams, if you go that route.

Lodging

Essence has a block of hotels that are released the winter of the previous year.

If booking in advance (a year) it’s possible to do your own affordable booking.

You can search via sites like Expedia, Booking, Trip Advisor, Priceline or directly with the hotel.

The average booking for a 3-4 star hotel (if you do either of the above) is about $200 and up per night. Anything less is a bargain!

During my first year, I stayed at the Omni Royal Crescent in the Central Business District.

It was a 4-star boutique hotel and mirrored the old fashioned elegance of many of the area’s hotels.

The Omni has been dropped from the name.

TIP: Consider an Airbnb in advance.

Walk it Out

New Orleans is pretty much a walkable city as long as you’re not far away from the action.

You can stay in the French Quarter, Central Business District or Warehouse District to be a 15-minute walk to everything.

Most rideshares (Uber, Lyft) across these areas will run you less than $10 per trip (if it’s not a high time).

The streetcars run frequently for a couple of dollars or you can get get a day pass.

The red streetcars go up and down Canal. The green ones (St. Charles St.) go further through the Garden District.

It’s a nice ride all the way through.

TIP: If unsure of a hotel’s distance you can do a Google search from the French Quarter to its address.

The Strip

Canal Street is one of the main strips in New Orleans. I used it as a guide to familiarize myself with the area.

This street is where the streetcars intersect and Bourbon St. starts. There are Walgreens, Popeye’s, and other shopping stores.

Hotels line the block mixed with other businesses.

I had my first taste of Popeye’s in its hometown. The only difference was the chicken was a little crispier and more expensive due to the location.

Anything Goes

Bourbon and it’s surrounding streets were filled with restaurants, smoothie/daiquiri/fried chicken spots, bars, souvenir shops and the like.

Street performers banged pots. Or stayed still like mannequins.

There was such creativity in some of their outfits.

Hustlers on every corner showed off their talents.

Like New York, Bourbon St. never sleeps!

It’s a colorful, loud and sometimes smelly area. But most are too drunk to care!

It’s a mixed crowd of homeless people, families, groups, the overly intoxicated/curious /sophisticated and solo travelers.

TIP: Bourbon Street (like its name) is just a street in the French Quarter. Make sure to visit the opposite end (a few miles down) that has the French Market (main Cafe du Monde) and Frenchmen St.

Frenchmen Street is more laid back and I hear that’s where most of the locals hang out. It has restaurants, bars, and hotels.

It’s supposed to be less “touristy” than the French Quarter.

TIP: A streetcar runs along the riverfront that connects routes to that side of the French Quarter.

TIP: Ladies, leave the heels at home! Wedges, low heeled boots, tennis shoes, and flats are great options.

Follow these general tips for smooth airport transfers/travel to your New Orleans destination.

The Show Must Go On

I’m as stubborn as they come, and was not about to “half enjoy” myself in New Orleans.

I planned my solo trip as if I had an entire squad with me.

I booked a city tour through the Louisiana Tour Company. They offered pick-up and drop off at my hotel.

The tour included an above-ground cemetery walk-through and a drive-through of the 9^th Ward (area ravaged by Hurricane Katrina).

It was eerie and sad seeing the watermarks on buildings. They indicated how high the floodwaters had risen.

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*The plaque above is part of the “Scrap House” memorial across from the convention center.

We stopped at Morning Call for beignets.

I’m sold on Cafe Du Monde as my favorite. Beignets (square-shaped fritters) are french styled deep-fried dough which is covered with powdered sugar.

The tour bus passed through the Garden District. We could see beads in the trees from Mardi Gras.

Meanwhile, the guide summarized New Orlean’s history.

Black and White

The festival is known for its myriads of white parties so of course, I planned to attend one the first night of my stay.

It was a boat party aboard the aptly named “The Creole Queen”.

TIP: Essence Fest starts on a Friday. Come a day early or stay a day later to enjoy the city.

My hotel was about a ten-minute walk to the riverfront and I felt completely safe walking alone in my all-white.

The boat party was a good introduction to the partying side of the festival. I would probably not repeat it.

I came to “people watch”. A dancer would have more fun.

The food wasn’t memorable.

The ticket’s cost was between $50 to $80 depending on how far in advance you purchased (through Event Brite) and if it was VIP.

Tip: Use Event Brite and the website “Emf Calendar” to search for Essence Fest related haps.

It’s Party Time

I met a current Facebook friend who was amazed that I had come alone.

I had just gotten my food and asked her if the empty spot at her table was taken.

We broke the ice through chit chat. This led to picture-taking and social media.

TIP: There are several “day” boat parties.

Most of the parties at Essence have a celebrity host. Star sightings are everywhere!

TIP: Bring a portable charger for your phone/camera!

Money Talks

Flying out of the Miami/Ft Lauderdale area makes it easy to get a $350 or less roundtrip ticket. Baggage fees may be extra depending on your luggage size/amount.

A reasonable daily budget for food and non-alcoholic drinks is less than $100.

If your hotel has a free breakfast or you don’t eat at every meal then even better.

I like to book parties/tours in advance. Add them to your budget if you don’t.

Consider shopping and drinking habits when planning a daily spend.

There is a nearby Wal-mart if you want to buy your own food and drinks.

Louisiana laws allow you to walk with open containers of alcohol.

I made a friend on the tour bus. A fellow solo traveler.

She drove there after.

I found some cheap T-shirts and shot glasses. Walgreens and corner stores are everywhere.

New Orleans is much more expensive during Essence Fest but it’s worth it (at least once).

Long Lines “and” Wait

The city is normally busy and filled with tourists. Essence Fest makes it more crowded.

Be prepared for long lines everywhere! Unless you come in early/leave late as recommended.

TIP: Bring your patience!

Powdered Mustache

Day one of Essence Fest. I heard all the great reviews about Cafe Du Monde’s beignets. I made my way over to Riverwalk (riverfront shopping mall) to be the judge.

Riverwalk is right next to the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center.

You can get a cafe au lait (coffee with cream) to go with your beignets.

TIP: Be careful with the powder, it gets everywhere!

Once I got my fill of the sweet doughnuts, I walked over to the convention center. The doors open at about 10 am (Fri-Sun).

The convention center is a huge space that has distractions for every single one of your senses.

You can see the names in lights of every major brand you can think of (Mc Donalds, Coco-Cola, Ford, Disney, Wal-mart, Dove, At & T, State Farm, Cover Girl, L’oreal, and Colgate, etc.

Freebies

Most of the top companies for Black products have a huge presence. (My Black is Beautiful, Dark and Lovely, Shea Moisture, Creme of Nature, and Mizani, etc.)

They each have their space/stages where DJ’S are blasting all of the latest music. They all do giveaways and tote bags are in abundance!

If you’re not careful, you won’t have room in your suitcase for all of the bags.

They look appealing and most importantly they are free.

The health and beauty section gives away all kinds of sample products. Some companies give out full sizes ranging from toiletries and make-up to hair products.

TIP: Make sure to have room for all of the freebies too!

Each year Ford has a car giveaway.

I must’ve taken a picture in every booth available!

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No Cover

The convention center’s entrance is free of charge. The only cost is for food, attending special shows or when buying from a vendor.

You can feel the electric energy and excitement in the air as the mostly Black women of all ages, shapes, and sizes make their way to their favorite areas.

Each year, Essence adds new vendors/experiences. There are spots for free massages, mini makeovers, and hairstyling.

TIP: My Black is Beautiful gives the largest goodie bags with a t-shirt. You can get a ticket for an appointment if you don’t want to wait in line.

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Laissez le Bon Temp Rouler (French: Let the Good Times Roll)

In the midst of this sensory overhaul is random sightings of celebrities walking with their security/entourages. Some are performing, giving empowering lectures, selling their latest merchandise or attending a live panel.

There’s an area with picnic styled tables called ‘Essence Eats’. This is where local restaurants have set up to serve food/drinks.

The closer you get to the area, the aroma of food waiting to be consumed assaults you.

There is a variety of soul food (ribs, fried chicken, turkey wings, greens), seafood, local favorites, desserts, and alcoholic drinks.

TIP: Long lines reminder.

I can’t think of their name. I always stop to get pork chops, red beans and rice (with sausage) and bread pudding with rum sauce from one vendor.

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A Mouthful

Essence Eats has celebrity cooking shows and free samples. You can spend the whole day there and there is always something new to do.

Coming from Miami, I found the food cost to be more reasonable in New Orleans.

The lobster and fries pictured above were about $20. I would’ve paid almost doubled in Miami.

TIP: Download Essence’s apps for all showtimes and celebrity appearances. They don’t list everyone. So you may see an unexpected celebrity.

It’s extremely difficult to plan anything after you leave the convention center if you’re going to the nightly concerts. It can take hours just to visit all of the booths.

A Day Party of Stars

I left early to attend a day party across the street at the Sugar Mill.

It featured characters from the Starz network. There was a VIP area to be up close and personal with them. Tichinia Arnold was one of the guests.

It was a nice vibe filled with interactive photo booths, experiences, and drinks.

You have to pace yourself at Essence!

There is so much going on. Don’t worry if you don’t make it to everything!

The parties happen during the day/night, on rooftops, have various themes, and can even be found in hotel lobbies.

There are a gazillion pop-up shops, food trucks, brunches, comedy/ fashion shows, etc.

This is a good time to be watching your favorite Black celebrities’ social media for all of their updates/chek-in.

Taking Bets

The Central Business District has a Harrah’s Hotel and Casino. There are restaurants, clubs, and karaoke on site.

Almost next to Harrah’s is Dragos’s (connected to the Hilton Riverside). I read a lot about their charbroiled oysters.

Oysters are available everywhere in New Orleans. I heard Dragos was the best!

I had never eaten them.

My palate could use some adventure. I took the dive!

They were everything I expected and more.

I’ve eaten oysters exclusively at Dragos since.

I must say their crab salad and seafood gumbo are pretty amazing too!

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The Main Event

The dress code for the convention center is laid back. I wore tanks with shorts or rompers with flats with minimal make-up.

The nightly shows (Friday through Sunday) at the Mercedes Benz Super Dome is where you can choose to be a little fancier.

TIP: I only used rideshare for nightly concerts to preserve my make-up. Ladies, only small clear purses are allowed in the dome.

After the show, the rideshare apps may crash.

Mostly everyone walks back to their hotel.

This is why it’s a great idea to stay in a central area. I’ve never driven in N.O. so I can’t give parking advice.

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Most of the A-list acts will be on the main stage. There are smaller rooms called super lounges for “lower grade” performers.

Unfortunately, they don’t always get the order or timing right!

Take Your Seats

I recommend visiting the different lounges. They are varied (standing room only) sizes.

Some have their own food vendors and unique experiences.

I’ve gotten to see the majority of my favorite artists at Essence.

My first year included Mariah Carey, Bad Boy, Babyface, New Edition, Maxwell, Charlie Wilson, Ciarra, and a tribute to Prince.

On my maiden Essence trip, I didn’t splurge on floor seats. Once I got the experience the following year, it was well worth it.

Essence allows you to purchase all three days as a package or you can do individual nights.

Tickets are generally available in January (Ticketmaster). The super lounges are included in the ticket’s price.

Something New

The pic below is my first encounter with a shrimp PO-boy at the dome. It was plain and unimpressive. But I couldn’t expect much from arena food.

I thoroughly enjoyed my first girl trip to Essence Fest. I met many friendly people.

Most of the time, I’m not even the initiator of conversation. If they start, I will gladly finish/reciprocate.

Traveling solo was drama-free! I created my own schedule and stuck to it.

New Orleans was home from day one! It has become my favorite city!

We Are Family

Essence Festival is truly a reunion of Black excellence. I felt welcomed as a first-time solo traveler.

It was like being part of a large family.

This experience is why I made Essence Fest my annual birthday trip.

I was a little impatient this go-round.

I was unwilling to wait in a lot of the recommended restaurant lines. It wasn’t until the next year that I got more of a taste of New Orleans.

Since “Girl’s Trip” was released, I’m seeing a new demographic that has altered the experience for me.

I still urge every Black person to go at least once!

Have you ever been?

~Poof…Bee Gone

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