The Essence Festival Durban will follow the multi-day format of the New Orleans event, which draws more than 450,000 people annually over the July 4th holiday weekend and has an economic impact of more than $200 million locally. There are many parallels and we felt expanding to South Africa was a great connection.” We share a history of racial, economic and social prejudice and disparities. “There’s a great deal in common culturally between America and South Africa. Reconnecting with our community on the African continent will allow us to go far together.”Įbanks said a delegation from Durban attended the festival’s 20th anniversary in New Orleans. “There’s an African proverb that says you can go fast alone or far together.

“We believe that this event will strengthen the Essence Festival and deepen our connection to our attendees,” she said, nixing any concerns that the expansion might negatively affect the New Orleans event. Ebanks said in a telephone interview that it likely will be held “around this time next year.”Įbanks noted Durban and New Orleans are longtime sister cities. President Michelle Ebanks said Thursday.Įxact dates will be announced in a few weeks. The festival has launched a three-year partnership with eThekwini Municipality to host the Essence Festival in Durban, South Africa, in 20, Essence Communications Inc. NEW ORLEANS (AP) - After more than 20 years in New Orleans, the Essence Festival is now going global.

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