The Roots Picnic
WHY IT'S HERE
Founded in 2008 by The Roots, one of the most culturally respected music festivals in Black music, intergenerational appeal with podcast stages and educational programming.
The Roots Picnic was founded by The Roots, the Philadelphia hip-hop band led by Questlove and Black Thought, in 2008. Held annually at The Mann in Fairmount Park, the picnic has become one of the most culturally respected music festivals in the Black music ecosystem. Past lineups have included Jay-Z, Lauryn Hill, Mary J. Blige, Erykah Badu, Lil Wayne, SZA, Lil Uzi Vert, Usher, and Ms. Lauryn Hill performing alongside The Roots as backing band. Beyond the music, the festival is known for its podcast stages, surprise guests, and intergenerational appeal, drawing both longtime hip-hop fans and a younger generation of Black music lovers.
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