The Roots Picnic 2025: A Celebration of Music, Milestones, and Culture in Philadelphia
After a brief hiatus, the highly anticipated Roots Picnic is set to return to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, in 2025, bringing with it an electrifying lineup of artists, performers, and events that promise to make this year’s festival one to remember. Scheduled to take place at the iconic Mann Center in Fairmount Park on May 31 and June 1, the Roots Picnic will once again serve as a vibrant celebration of music, culture, and community. This year’s event is particularly special, as it marks the triumphant return of R&B legend D’Angelo to the stage alongside The Roots. D’Angelo, known for his soulful voice and captivating performances, has not performed publicly since his 2022 appearance at the Netflix Is a Joke Comedy Festival at the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles. His comeback at the Roots Picnic is sure to be a highlight of the festival and a moment that fans have been eagerly waiting for.
The lineup for the Roots Picnic 2025 is nothing short of impressive, featuring a diverse array of artists who represent the very best in music today. Joining D’Angelo and The Roots will be an array of talented performers, including the incomparable Lenny Kravitz, Philadelphia’s own Meek Mill, the rising star GloRilla, and the fierce rapper Latto. Additionally, the festival will feature performances by Tems, Jeezy, Kaytranada, Pusha T, 2 Chainz, Musiq Soulchild, Kur, Elmiene, Backyard Band with the legendary Cee Lo Green, Jagged Edge, CeCe Peniston, Crystal Waters, Lay Banks, and Laila, with more performers expected to be announced in the coming weeks. This eclectic mix of artists ensures that there will be something for everyone, spanning genres from hip-hop and R&B to soul, rock, and beyond. The Roots Picnic has always been a platform for both established and emerging talent, and this year’s lineup is a testament to that legacy.
One of the most exciting aspects of the Roots Picnic 2025 is the celebration of musical milestones, as several artists will be honoring the anniversaries of their groundbreaking albums. Jeezy will take the stage to commemorate the 20th anniversary of his iconic album Let’s Get It: Thug Motivation 101, a project that played a pivotal role in defining thetrap music movement and solidifying Jeezy’s status as a hip-hop titan. Similarly, Musiq Soulchild will celebrate the 25th anniversary of his debut album Aijuswanaseing, a project that introduced the world to his smooth, soulful sound and earned him a place as one of R&B’s most beloved voices. The Roots themselves will also be marking a major milestone: the 30th anniversary of their critically acclaimed album Do You Want More?!!!??!, a project that not only showcased their musical versatility but also helped establish them as one of the most influential groups in hip-hop history. These celebrations will undoubtedly bring a sense of nostalgia and reverence to the festival, allowing fans to relive the moments that helped shape the music landscape.
Beyond the main stage performances, the Roots Picnic will also offer a variety of exciting experiences and events that cater to all tastes. Festivalgoers can enjoy a series of day parties, including Trap Karaoke, Chill Vibes featuring DJ Aktive, Doo-Wop..That R&B Party, and Dear Summer Festival. Additionally, attendees will have the opportunity to witness live sets from some of the most talented DJs and performers in the industry, including Rich Medina, Funk Flex, and Diamond Kuts. Adding to the excitement, J. Period will host his signature Live Mixtape segment, featuring special guest appearances by Black Thought, Pusha T, and 2 Chainz. These events will add an extra layer of entertainment to the festival, ensuring that there is never a dull moment for attendees.
The Roots Picnic has a long history of delivering unforgettable experiences, and last year’s event was no exception. In 2024, the festival featured performances by an array of iconic and rising stars, including André 3000, Jill Scott, Babyface, Shaboozey, Gunna, and many more. One of the standout moments of the 2024 event was a special tribute to the city of New Orleans, led by none other than Lil Wayne, who was joined on stage by PJ Morton, the Roots, Trombone Shorty, and Lloyd. This tribute not only highlighted the rich musical heritage of New Orleans but also showcased the kind of collaborative spirit that the Roots Picnic is known for. With this year’s lineup and events, it’s clear that the festival is continuing its tradition of excellence and innovation, ensuring that the Roots Picnic remains a benchmark for music festivals nationwide.
For those eager to attend this year’s Roots Picnic, presale tickets will be available starting on February 18 at 10 a.m. ET, giving fans an exclusive opportunity to secure their spots before tickets go on general sale. General ticket sales will begin on February 21 at 10 a.m. ET. Given the incredible lineup and the array of events planned, it’s safe to say that the Roots Picnic 2025 is shaping up to be one of the most talked-about music events of the year. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of The Roots, a lover of soul and R&B, or simply someone who appreciates great music and good vibes, the Roots Picnic is an event you won’t want to miss. So mark your calendars, grab your tickets, and get ready to experience two days of live music, culture, and celebration in the heart of Philadelphia. The Roots Picnic 2025 is coming, and it’s going to be bigger and better than ever.