Michelle Obama, Cardi B and Teyana Taylor dazzle at Essence Fest

🎤 Michelle Obama talked about her new book with Keke Palmer in front of a sold-out crowd at the Caesars Superdome. (Highlights)

• "Essence Fest, you all certainly showed up tonight!" the former first lady posted on Instagram.

🎉 Cardi B ate her way through the city, had a National Guard escort in the Quarter and then made her Essence debut at BeautyCon and the Caesars Superdome.

• An Axios editor was on her flight to Atlanta. Cardi was in first class, but we're still surprised she flies commercial.

😎 Teyana Taylor and Marc Morial were everywhere. Former Mayor LaToya Cantrell was also out and about.

🤼 New this year: Double-dutch, cars and wrestling.

🇺🇸 U.S. Rep. Jasmine Crockett, U.S. Sen. Cory Booker, U.S. Rep. Troy Carter and other politicians took the stage.

🛍️ Attendees loaded up on free swag.

👀 Essence's contract with the city ends this year. Talks have begun, and Mayor Helena Moreno says they'll ramp up in the coming weeks. (Axios)

• Her initial feedback about this year's event: The music started on time Friday and Saturday, and Friday's attendance was bigger last year's. (Instagram)