Jay-Z and Erykah Badu to Headline 2026 Roots Picnic in Philadelphia

The 2026 Roots Picnic will feature a star-studded lineup headlined by Jay-Z and Erykah Badu, taking place May 30-31 at Belmont Plateau in Philadelphia. The festival’s full lineup includes performances from T.I., Brandy, Kehlani, and many more.

Jay-Z and The Roots Reunion

Rap legend Jay-Z will perform with The Roots on Saturday, May 30th, marking the first time they have performed together in over a decade . This highly anticipated reunion is a “bucket-list moment” for The Roots’ manager, Shawn Gee .

Erykah Badu to Close Out the Festival

Erykah Badu will headline on Sunday, May 31st, bringing her neo-soul sound to the festival . Her performance will provide a complement to Jay-Z’s set, showcasing one of hip-hop’s most iconic performers .

Full Lineup Announced

The 2026 Roots Picnic boasts a diverse lineup of artists, including:

• Kehlani
• Brandy
• T.I.
• De La Soul
• Mariah the Scientist
• Wale
• Jermaine Dupri
• DJ Jazzy Jeff
• Bilal
• Corinne Bailey Rae
• Yolanda Adams
• Ledisi
• Tamar Braxton
• Andra Day

The festival will too feature a 50th-anniversary celebration of go-go music with an all-star band and a tribute to the Waiting to Exhale soundtrack led by Adam Blackstone .

Modern Festival Location

For the first time, the Roots Picnic will be held at Belmont Plateau in Philadelphia’s Fairmount Park . The venue offers a scenic view of the city skyline and is referenced in DJ Jazzy Jeff and The Fresh Prince’s 1991 hit “Summertime” .

Tickets for the 2026 Roots Picnic are currently available .