Summer starts here: Roots Picnic 2025 brings D’Angelo, Meek Mill & Lenny Kravitz to Philly for a monumental weekend of music, culture, and food

For many, summer’s unofficial kickoff might involve a grill and a baseball game—but for music lovers and culture aficionados, there’s only one signal that summer has truly arrived: the Roots Picnic.

Returning to the scenic Mann Center in Philadelphia’s West Fairmount Park on May 31 to June 1, 2025, the annual festival—curated by the legendary Roots crew—promises another unforgettable weekend filled with genre-defining performances, Black cultural celebration, local food, and day party vibes. Rolling Stone calls it “hip-hop’s greatest festival,” and this year’s lineup more than lives up to the hype.

Headlining the two-day experience are three icons with deep musical roots and serious stage power: neo-soul icon D’Angelo, Philly’s own Meek Mill, and rock legend Lenny Kravtiz. And that’s just the tip of the iceberg.

Saturday’s roster features Miguel, Tems, Latto, and Jeezy, setting the tone with smooth vocals, commanding rap flows, and nostalgic hits. Sunday turns up the energy with GloRilla, Kaytranada, and an emotional homecoming from Meek Mill. Also performing are J.Period’s Live Mixtape with Black Thought, 2 Chainz, and Pusha T, and anniversary sets from Musiq Soulchil—celebrating 25 years of Aijuswanaseing—and The Roots themselves—marking 30 years since Do You Want More?!!!??!

Also gracing the lineup:

  • Adam Blackstone ft. Jagged Edge & Total
  • Backyard Band ft. CeeLo Green
  • Crystal Waters & CeCe Peniston
  • Kur, Elmiene, Lay Banks, Jermaine Dolly, Laila!
  • DJs and hosts: Funk Flex, Diamond Kuts, DJ Aktive, Leeyuh Neptune, Peyton
Colorful promotional poster for the Roots Picnic festival, featuring the event's name and logos, artist lineup, and details about the venue, dates, and activities.

This year introduces a full day party lineup designed to keep the energy alive from noon to night. Highlights include:

  • Trap Karaoke
  • DJ Aktive’s Chill Vibes ft. Raheem DeVaughn
  • Girls Love Karaoke
  • Kirk Franklin’s Sunday School
  • Dear Summer Festival
  • The Remedy w/ Rich Medina & Cosmo Baker
  • Philly Black Pride, World Series of Spades, Interna$hional Bounce, and more

For the first time ever, the Roots Picnic will also host a full food festival alongside its musical stages. Expect nearly 50 Philly-based food vendors, with a spotlight on Black-owned restaurants and community-driven businesses.

Foodie favorites include:

  • Amina Hospitality Collection (Amina, Black Hen)
  • Black Dragon Takeout (Asian-Soul fusion)
  • Doro Bet (Ethiopian fried chicken)
  • Vegan-ish (plant-based options)

Whether you’re craving plant-based soul food or savory street eats, this addition makes the 2025 Roots Picnic not just a feast for the ears—but for the palate too.

From nostalgic reunions and once-in-a-lifetime performances to community, food, and dancing in the grass—Roots Picnic 2025 is shaping up to be not just a music festival, but a full-blown Philly cultural landmark.

Plan Your Picnic

When: Saturday, May 31 & Sunday, June 1, 2025
Where: The Mann Center, West Fairmount Park, Philadelphia
Tickets:

  • Presale: February 18 at 10 a.m. – February 20 at 10 p.m.
  • General Sale: Begins February 21 at 10 a.m.

Tips:
Bring a blanket, wear comfy shoes, and get there early—performances are spread across multiple stages, including the T.D. Pavilion and an open-lawn main stage.

Leave a Reply