Essence Festival 2026: Cardi B, Brandy, Monica, Kehlani, & More Announced as First Wave of Performers

The Essence Festival of Culture is bringing the blazing brand of heat to New Orleans for its 2026 installment.

For, it has been announced that several of music’s heaviest hitters will be taking to the stage at this year’s edition of the annual extravaganza. And the list includes Cardi B, Brandy, and Monica.

Full story below…

When is The Essence Festival 2026?

The Essence Festival of Culture 2026 takes place July 3-July 6.

Who Is Performing at the Essence Festival 2026?

Moments ago, organizers unleashed the first wave of names set to perform, and they took a Ladies First approach. Apt given it’s one day after International Women’s Day 2026.

The first acts are:

Brandy & Monica
Kehlani
Latto
Patti LaBelle
Cardi B

The countdown to ESSENCE Festival has officially begun and in true ESSENCE fashion, we’re starting with Ladies First.

From legendary voices who built the foundation to the Hitmakers running the charts today, the women of music are stepping onto the Superdome stage.

The lineup… pic.twitter.com/Oo1ATFq5wp

— ESSENCE (@Essence) March 9, 2026

Now, that’s a strong set of names! And there’s more to come?! Exciting times!