Celebrity The 2016 Essence Festival Just Announced Its Star-Studded Lineup—See the List of Performers By Olivia Bahou Olivia Bahou Facebook Olivia Solomon is a New York-based writer and editor who covers all things fashion, lifestyle, celebrity, and pop culture. She was previously the Assistant Digital Editor for InStyle, and her work has appeared in many national publications. InStyle's editorial guidelines Updated on March 1, 2016 @ 10:00AM Pin Share Tweet Email Photo: Kevin Mazur/WireImage The 22nd annual Essence Festival has a time and a place—and now, its first round of performers! The show will take place in New Orleans from June 30 to July 3, and will feature none other than Grammy Award-winner Kendrick Lamar returning to headline the event. The festival will have performances by Mariah Carey, Ciara, Andra Day, Leon Bridges, Estelle, and many more incredible stars. Head over to Essence.com to see the full list of the first round of performers who will take the stage in the Big Easy this July 4 weekend. Zendaya and Tracee Ellis Ross Kick Off Oscar Weekend at Essence's Black Women in Hollywood Luncheon The four-night and five-stage event is expecting more than 550,000 attendees. For more information about ticket sales, head to essencefestival.com and keep checking back to see the next round of incredible performers.