Roots Picnic 2025: A Weekend Celebration of Music, Culture, and Community
This year’s Roots Picnic proved once again why it’s one of the top cultural events in America. Set against the vibrant backdrop of Philadelphia, this year’s festival delivered a perfect blend of nostalgia, musical brilliance, and community connection. Whether you’re a local or visiting from out of town, the Roots Picnic is more than just a concert—it’s a full-on experience.
The Celebrity Basketball Game: Team Gillie vs. Team Wallo
Things kicked off Friday night with the high-energy celebrity basketball game. It was hosted at the Alan Horwitz Sixth Man Center. Named in honor of Philly legend and Sixers superfan Alan Horwitz, the gym was packed wall to wall. So, there were fans, celebrities, and families soaking in the good vibes.
This wasn’t your average celebrity run. On the court were high-profile names like rap star DaBaby, viral sensation D. Sturdy, and rising boxing phenom Jaron “Boots” Ennis. Star Eagles cornerback Cooper Dejuan also lit up the gym. Therefore, he showed his athleticism transcending football. Team Gillie was going head-to-head with Team Wallo. As a result, the game was filled with highlight-reel moments, from dunks to deep threes. Cooper Dejuan stole the show with high-flying plays, big buckets, and crowd-roaring dunks that had everyone buzzing.
Even Twitch-famous streamer N3on brought flair to the court. Therefore, adding to the cultural melting pot of influencers, athletes, and artists. The event wasn’t just entertaining—it was a genuine celebration of Philly pride and community.
Sunday Highlights: From Crystal Waters to Lenny Kravitz
Though I had to miss Saturday’s show for personal reasons, Sunday made up for everything. I arrived just in time to catch house music icon Crystal Waters performing her timeless hit, “Gypsy Woman (She’s Homeless).” That moment alone was worth the trip—seeing an icon still command a crowd with a classic that’s spanned decades.
The festival grounds were alive with energy. From the smell of amazing food to the visual buzz of major brands setting up interactive booths, there was no shortage of engagement. Toyota and Fuel Energy Drink had eye-catching activations, but one standout was Lil Trent’s Grille and Pizzeria, which served up some of the best eats on-site.
Total: 90s R&B Vibes Reign Supreme
One of the biggest highlights of Roots Picnic 2025 was the presence of Total, the 90s R&B trio known for their sultry harmonies and infectious hooks. Dressed in all-black outfits and signature shades, the group looked and sounded timeless.
They performed hits from their self-titled debut album like “Can’t You See,” “Kissing You,” and “No One Else.” Those are songs that once dominated urban radio and still hold up today. The nostalgic vibe hit deep. Therefore, reminding fans why 90s R&B holds such a special place in music history.
Their stage presence was magnetic, showing that real artists only get better with time. The Roots Picnic production team nailed it with this booking—Total was a perfect fit for the crowd and festival atmosphere.
Jagged Edge: First Time Live in Philly & Totally Worth the Wait
If you’re an R&B lover, seeing Jagged Edge live is a spiritual experience. The group came through strong, performing beloved classics like “I Gotta Be,” “Let’s Get Married,” and the ultimate party anthem “Where the Party At.” This was my first time seeing JE live in my hometown—and it couldn’t have been a better setting.
They owned the stage with flawless harmonies and coordinated swag. Each song hit hard with the crowd, who were all singing along and vibing. Looking around the crowd, it was clear everyone was locked in. After all, their phones were in the air, heads bobbing, and not a single complaint in sight. JE made it a moment. So, Philly showed love right back.
Lenny Kravitz: A Rock God Touches Down at The Picnic
Closing out the weekend was the incomparable Lenny Kravitz, who brought raw, unfiltered rock energy to the stage. From the second he walked out, the crowd was dialed in. Dressed like the rock god he is, Kravitz launched into “Are You Gonna Go My Way,” and the energy was immediate.
His performance of “Fly Away” was another standout moment. As soon as those opening chords hit, thousands of fans erupted, singing along word-for-word. It felt like a spiritual release—music at its most powerful.
Lenny didn’t disappoint when it came to storytelling either. He connected with the audience in between tracks, showcasing his musical genius and deep roots in rock and soul. There was a brief hiccup during the show due to some technical issues, but true to form, Philly fans let the crew know by chanting “Fix His S**t!”—classic Philly energy and a reminder of how passionate this city’s crowd can be.
He closed his set with the timeless “It Ain’t Over Till It’s Over,” giving every attendee a reason to sway, reflect, and celebrate the beauty of live music.
Final Thoughts: Why The Roots Picnic Is a Must-Attend Experience
The Roots Picnic proved once again that this isn’t just a festival—it’s a cultural phenomenon. Whether you’re into hip-hop, R&B, house, rock, or simply good vibes and great food, there’s something for everyone.
The lineup was diverse and intentional: from the emotional resonance of R&B icons like Total and Jagged Edge, to the electric artistry of Lenny Kravitz and the nostalgic brilliance of Crystal Waters. Every moment was crafted for fans, by fans—an ethos that continues to make the Roots Picnic one of the most respected and enjoyable festivals in the world.
The celebrity basketball game added another layer of engagement, creating a weekend-long celebration that extended beyond music. It was fun, family-friendly, and filled with star power.
Even if you couldn’t attend every event, being present for any part of this year’s Roots Picnic was enough to give you memories that’ll last a lifetime. Whether you’re local or traveling from afar, this festival is a must-add to your summer plans.
Pro tip: Book early next year. These tickets won’t stay available long.
