Megan Thee Stallion, Ms. Lauryn Hill, Missy Elliott Headline + Full Essence Fest 2023 Lineup

Kevin Benoit

The first look at the Essence Festival 2023 line-up has finally been revealed. As usual, the Festival will take place in New Orleans during July 4th weekend, this year falling on June 29th – July 3rd. The headliners have been revealed as Ms. Lauryn Hill and Megan Thee Stallion. More of the Essence Fest 2023 line-up will undoubtably be revealed over the coming weeks, but here’s what we know now.

This Essence Fest 2023 is being billed as a celebration of Hip-Hop’s 50 years. That makes the headliners make perfect sense. Another confirmed performance on the mainstage is Jermaine Dupri and Friends.

Here’s what Essence Fest shared on social media:

“50 years of Hip-Hop takes the main stage as the largest festival (per day attendance- fact check us if you need to ) in the nation is returning to New Orleans, baby! Consider this your official invite.”

When: June 29th – July 3rd.
Where: NOLA

The Headliners: Missy Elliott, Ms. Lauryn Hill and Megan Thee Stallion

The South Got Something To Say:
Curated by Jermaine Dupri
with Big Boi, Gucci Mane, Lil Jon, Ludacris & T.I.

50th Anniversary Celebration of Hip-Hop:
Curated by Doug E. Fresh
with Big Daddy Kane, EPMD, KRS-One, Slick Rick

Performances from Coco Jones, Tems, Monica, Kizz Daniel, Muni Long, & more.

Special Guest: Wizkid

Guest DJs: Kid Kapri. DJ Clark Kent, Dj Spinderella

Hosted by: Deon Cole, Affion Crocket & Spice Adams, and Janelle James

Everyone had something to say about the Essence Festival 2023 line-up reveal. Essence Festival’s social media decided to have a little fun with it, sharing thoughts on Twitter and in the comments on Instagram. Here goes one of their best responses of the day.

Not the streets is saying we got a penny for our thoughts and a nickel for a kiss.

Whew, let us hurry up and get the rest of this lineup out. 😭😂 https://t.co/hwtQG27qtr

— ESSENCE Festival (@essencefest) March 29, 2023