Beyonce [ tickets ] will headline this year's Essence Music Festival [ tickets ] July 4th weekend in New Orleans.

The event, which features empowerment seminars in addition to 12 musical performances a day, is celebrating its 15th anniversary by offering a 15% discount on select tickets from Dec. 1-Jan. 31, according to a press release.

As in previous years, musical performances will be held at the Superdome and empowerment seminars at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center.

The empowerment seminars, which are free of charge on a first-come, first-served basis, will include "Women's Day: Getting the Life You Deserve," featuring Dr. Juanita Bynum; "State of Black America II: Realizing the Dream," hosted by Roland Martin; and "An All-Star Tribute to Bishop T.D. Jakes."

Additional information and festival updates can be found at the event's website.