Essence Holiday Celebration of Joy: What to Expect

The holiday season is all about joy, community, and celebrating what matters most. And if there’s one thing ESSENCE knows how to do, it’s capture that authentic Black joy! Get ready to settle in after your Thanksgiving feast because the beloved ESSENCE Holiday Celebration of Joy is back for 2025, and it’s packed with stars and heartwarming moments.

Mark Your Calendars: When and Where to Watch

This special holiday treat is set to premiere on November 27th – that’s Thanksgiving Day! You can catch all the festive fun on ESSENCE.com and their official YouTube page. So, once the turkey is carved and the last slice of pie is enjoyed, tune in for a celebration of Black brilliance.

Who’s Bringing the Joy? A Star-Studded Lineup

You can expect a fantastic lineup of talent! The celebration will be hosted by the hilarious comedian DC Young Fly and the talented actress and advocate Kat Graham. They’ll be guiding us through an evening filled with incredible performances.

• Grammy winner Chance the Rapper
• Gospel powerhouse Kierra Sheard
• Vocalist Amber Riley
• The legendary CeeLo Green
• Lena Byrd Miles
• Susan Carol
• TA Thomas
• Sesame Street’s own Megan Piphus

But the star power doesn’t stop there! We’ll also see appearances from the youngest generation, including Heiress Harris, and the viral sensations Van Van and Ms. Shirley from “Boots on the Ground” line dance fame. Plus, get ready for special guests like P-Valley star Shannon Thornton and media mogul DeVon Franklin, alongside the inspiring 100 Black Men of Atlanta, Inc.

A Celebration of Community and Black Joy

Michele Ghee, ESSENCE’s Chief Content Officer, shared the vision behind the special: “Our goal with this special was to create something that feels familiar yet fresh — a space where our community could see itself reflected through sound, storytelling, and joy.” It’s all about highlighting the blessings in community and reminding us that celebration is a universal language.

The special was filmed in both Atlanta and Los Angeles, capturing behind-the-scenes magic as it unfolded. It’s a testament to Black brilliance, and it’s arriving at a time when we need that sense of togetherness and upliftment more than ever.

More Holiday Cheer: The Gift Guide

To extend the celebration, ESSENCE will also be releasing its annual holiday gift guide. This guide is dedicated to showcasing the incredible work of Black creatives, making it easier for you to support and shop from talented individuals within the community.

So, get ready for an evening filled with music, laughter, and inspiring stories. The 2025 ESSENCE Holiday Celebration of Joy promises to be a beautiful reminder of the power of Black joy and community.