Essence Festival Durban delivered an unprecedented experience

Essence Festival Durban delivered an unprecedented experience to residents of Ethekwini , South Africa and global visitors with an all-encompassing lifestyle and empowerment showcase. Free and open to the public, the inaugural festival was received with overwhelming support as over 40 thousands patrons descended to the Durban ICC and DEC from 08 till 13 November, for a myriad of experiences including empowerment, lifestyle and wellness, beauty and style workshops, health, food, fashion, book and art exhibitions. The festival also featured South African and Durban’s top talent, with global award winning musicians such as NEYO and Yolanda Adams, with designers, chefs, and visual artists showcasing their crafts.

The Durban ICC

Two music spectaculars were also held on 12 and 13 of November featuring the best on the continent including Award winning, Nigerian born Whiz Kid, Burna Boy , AKA & Casper Nyovest while and Afro-Soul powerhouse Thandiswa Mazwai entertained fans with an unforgettable music experience. The gospel stage was a spiritually uplifting experience led by Mary Mary, South African bestselling gospel ensemble Joyous Celebration, Sfiso Ncwane, Dr Tumi, Thobeka, gospel powerhouse Hlengiwe Mhlaba & Ntokozo Mbambo and the legendary Ladysmith Black Mambazo whose founder Dr Josesh Tshabalala was honoured for his contribution to culture and arts by the President of the Republic, His Excellency Jacob Zuma.

Mr Phillip Sithole, Head of Durban Tourism

Phillip Sithole, Head of Durban Tourism confidently said “This festival has achieved our goal of enhancing our destination image and the live events have drawn fantastic crowds locally and globally. We have also provided a platform for the city to invest in SMME’s, through the Durban Business Fair, as well as to Arts and Culture economy, through the many activities we carried out in the build-up and during the Festival, which will go a long way in fuelling the economic engine of the City. We will be tabling our report to the City’s leadership in due course outlining the many successes achieved as well our plans going forward.”



“The inaugural Essence Festival Durban was a phenomenal experience for both thousands of local and international attendees who left enriched and inspired,” said Essence President Michelle Ebanks.
“Through the Festival, in partnership with eThekwini, we aim to connect our communities across the diaspora with an exchange of culture and ideas to empower women and families.”