RUNGRL is Heading to Essence Festival 2018

Photo: Essence Festival graphic, contains modified original photo by Mary Elizabeth

Photo: Essence Festival graphic, contains modified original photo by Mary Elizabeth

by RUNGRL Staff

#EssenceofaRunner

Essence Festival is often referred to as the “Party with a Purpose” and that is a mission we can certainly get behind. This year, RUNGRL is so excited to host three fitness program events at Essence Festival, including two themed, morning runs in the heart of The Big Easy and a "Wellness & Spirituality" panel discussion for the Lifestyle stage. By creating community through experiences and providing resources (tips & tricks, certified coaching advice, encouragement), we hope to increase the number of women who are inspired to get and keep moving at the Festival and beyond.

We see participation in the Festival as an opportunity to connect directly with Black women of all fitness levels and create experiences where they feel safe and supported as they begin (or continue) their wellness journeys through running. Here’s what we have in store:

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Miles + Mimosas:

"Back to your Roots"

Friday, July 6th, 10:00AM | New Orleans Convention Center Lifestyle Stage

Join us for refreshing mocktails and a panel conversation with RUNGRL founders and other top industry panelists as we discuss Black hair(care) as a barrier to fitness and wellness. As part of Essence Festival's Wellness & Spirituality programming, you'll chat with fellow ladies who want to be fit but also care about their hair.

Don't miss Dr. Kristian Henderson, founder of BLK + GRN; Jasmine Nesi, co-founder of RUNGRL; and Taliah Waajid, founder of the World Natural Health Lifestyle Event. The panel will be moderated by RUNGRL co-founder Ashlee Lawson and feature a protective styling demo from NOLA stylist Anastasia Ebel of BabyBangz Salon. Read more about our panelists here.

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#ESSENCEofaRunner

2-Mile Run/Walk

Saturday, July 7th, 8AM | New Orleans Riverwalk

For every woman that has ever thought about getting out there but doesn’t know where to start, we’ve got you, sis. Join RUNGRL for a 2-mile run/walk along the Mississippi River and learn some of the steps you can take to start hitting the pavement. All paces welcome. You’ve got this, girl!

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Sunday Hangover Run Through The French Quarter

Sunday, July 8th, 10:00 AM | Ace Hotel, New Orleans

Essence Festival is known for the parties, and we won’t lie, we like to party, too. But you won't have to choose between a fun night in NOLA with your girls and getting in a good sweat. Running brings us balance, and there’s no better way to sweat out last night’s shenanigans than a morning 5K run through the French Quarter. All paces welcome.

Of course, there will be tons of updates throughout the weekend, so be sure to follow us on Instagram (@rungrlco) for all of the latest news and announcements regarding Essence weekend events.

We can’t wait to see you there, sis!