Roots Picnic 2025 is officially returning to Philadelphia this weekend (May 31-June 1), and this year’s lineup promises another unforgettable celebration of music, culture, and community. Curated by Grammy-winning Hip-Hop icons, The Roots — in collaboration with Live Nation Urban — the beloved two-day festival will take place at The Mann in Fairmount Park.
As always, The Roots will take center stage and bring a powerful lineup with them. R&B royalty, Maxwell, is set to headline Saturday’s lineup as Rock legend Lenny Kravitz and Philly’s own, Meek Mill, will lead Sunday’s show — creating what’s sure to be a full-circle moment for the city.
The roster, however, doesn’t stop there. The 2025 festival will also feature an eclectic and exciting mix of artists including GloRilla, Tems, Latto, Kaytranada, Pusha T, 2 Chainz, Jeezy, Musiq Soulchild, Jagged Edge, Crystal Waters, Kur, Elmiene, Lay Bankz, Laila!, Backyard Band featuring CeeLo Green, and many other talents.
In a surprising turn, R&B icon D’Angelo, who was originally set to co-headline alongside The Roots, recently announced his withdrawal from the event due to a delay in recovery from surgery. In a heartfelt message shared via the Roots Picnic Instagram, D’Angelo expressed deep regret, saying he had been advised by medical specialists that performing could hinder his healing.
“It is nearly impossible to express how disappointed I am not to be able to play with my Brothers ‘The Roots.’ And even more disappointed to not see all of You,” he wrote. “I’m thankful to my beautiful fans for continuing to rock with me and thank u for your continued support.”
While fans were understandably saddened, the festival announced that the “Pretty Wings” singer would fill the slot.
This year’s festivities also mark the return of Roots Picnic Con taking place on Friday (May 30), which is an annual conference that features conversations and panels across a variety of topics such as music education, financial literacy, tech, health and wellness.
Panels will be powered by Starz, Everytown for Gun Safety, SEIU, The Recording Academy, and other. Panelists will include BMF star Da’Vinchi, musical artist Laila!, SEIU President April Verrett, Black Music Action Coalition Co-Founder and President Willie “Prophet” Stiggers and more.
Excitingly, there will also be a special closing keynote conversation between director, writer, and producer Malcolm D. Lee focusing on his new book, The Best Man Unfinished Business and Tarik “Black Thought” Trotter discussing his book, The Upcycled Self.
Introducing a newly-expanded day party lineup to keep the energy flowing from morning to night, attendees can also look forward to curated events like Trap Karaoke, Girls Love Karaoke, Chill Vibes with DJ Active, Doo-Wop Party, That R&B Party, Dear Summer Festival, Kirk Franklin’s Sunday School with DJ Mal-Ski, and a vibrant celebration hosted by Philly Black Pride.
Additionally, a plethora of popular and local food stations will be providing the good eats for the weekend.
Last year’s sold-out Roots Picnic featured appearances from André 3000, Jill Scott, Babyface, Sexyy Red, Gunna, and more — capped off with a New Orleans-themed tribute featuring Lil Wayne, PJ Morton, and Trombone Shorty. It was also a landmark moment for the city, with both Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro and Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker attending and honoring The Roots for their contributions to the arts, education, and the local economy.
Those who’s anticipation for the Roots Picnic 2025 is at an all time high, can purchase tickets here.
Leave a comment