Prince returns for the 20th anniversary of Essence Fest 2014 on Friday (July 4). Check out this list of 10 cool things to do in New Orleans in this weekend, and full listings at NOLA.com/events.

• Prince, Nile Rodgers, and Janelle Monae warm up the main stage on the first night of Essence Fest 2014.

• The Prytania celebrates the 50th anniversary of the release of “A Hard Day’s Night.”

• My House NOLA presents two patriotic bashes in bars: a July 4th Party at Twelve Mile Limit, and America: The Party at the Rusty Nail.

• The Krewe of Kolossos July 4th Flotilla boat parade floats on Bayou St. John.

• Michael Kleinschrodt compiled Fourth of July events throughout the New Orleans area.

• Biz Markie deejays at the “Hot Right Now” Essence Day Party.

• Yamma Brown discusses her book “Cold Sweat: My Father James Brown and Me” (to be published Sept. 1) and her role as co-producer of the upcoming film biography of her father, “Get on Up” (to be released Aug. 1), during a meet-and-greet at the Community Book Center.

• The Mandeville City Seafood Festival kicks off at noon in Fontainebleau State Park.

• Tipitina’s Foundation Free Fridays concert series features the New Orleans Suspects plus Marc Stone.

• The Society of Sin presents Stars and Strips Forever, a burlesque tour of American history, at the Shadowbox.

• Brother Jules spins at Purple Reign at the Carver Theater.

• Siberia mixes it up, with Classhole topping the bill for the early set, and a late-night bounce party with Katey Red, the Hot 8 Brass Band, and more.

• The Pinettes hold it down at Maison.

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Cate Root updates the calendar and writes about things to do in New Orleans. Follow her on Twitter @cateroot.