Essence Festival : Kick Off Film & Media Arts Mixer!

Essence Festival arrives early! Connect with creators, film, and media pros at this high-quality, open-atrium networking mixer.

Have a trailer ready to show the world? Or a project in development that needs funding? We want to spotlight your work! Share your project details and contact with us, and we will blast it out to our entire network of RSVP'ed attendees both leading up to the mixer and in our official post-event wrap-up. ([email protected])

If any investors, agents, distributors, or fellow creators want to connect, they will see your information with the submission directly! This will help you secure the bag and build your team. Don't miss this massive opportunity for visibility.

TRADITIONAL VALUES!

There is a long-standing tradition of groups, local artists, and international travelers hosting their own official hospitality mixers on Thursday evening to welcome seasoned festival patrons and first-time attendees alike.

Centered around film, media, and the arts, this is a low-stakes, high-quality opportunity to mingle, network, and build camaraderie with like-minded creatives before the official festival madness begins on Friday. If you are an industry professional or creator, this is your best chance to have those key, uninterrupted conversations. If you’re a film and culture enthusiast, or even just attendee, it’s the perfect time to find your footing, grab your badges, and map out your weekend itinerary!

See you at the venue's legendary, soaring third-floor atrium!

• Grand & Airy: With ceilings extending straight up to the upper floors , the lounge feels incredibly high-end, spacious, and bright—never cramped or dark.
• Natural Flow & High Visibility: This isn't a traditional, walled-in restaurant. The bar blends seamlessly into the open expanse, making it the ultimate spot to spot arriving friends, flag down your team, and people-watch as the city's top fashionistas check in.
• Perfect for Mingling: The open layout allows you to float freely with a drink, stand and chat, or sit down for a quick bite without feeling restricted to a single table.

Come grab a bite, enjoy a cocktail, and set the tone for an unforgettable weekend.

LOGISTICS