Lena Waithe & Queen Latifah Kick Off Essence Festival!

Lena Waithe and Queen Latifah are kicking off the first day of Essence Festival!

The actresses both took the stage at the event on Friday (July 6) at Ernest N. Morial Convention Center in New Orleans, LA.

PHOTOS: Check out the latest pics of Lena Waithe

They were also joined at the event by Amandla Stenberg, Regina Hall, Vivica A. Fox, Ne-Yo and Snoop Dogg.

After speaking at the event, Lena took to her Instagram to share her excitement for the weekend.

“My first @essencefest… has been quite lit. If you see me just holla!” Lena wrote.

10+ pictures from Essence Festival inside…