Roots Picnic 2025: A Weekend of Lessons, Accountability & Ultimate Redemption

Day One Roots Picnic: When the Vibes Fell Short

Roots Picnic is it a wrap? The anticipation was high, the energy unmatched, and the promise of an unforgettable Roots Picnic loomed large. But as Day One unfolded, reality struck harder than expected.

From the moment festival-goers arrived, there was a glaring lack of communication. No clear directions, no proper ADA accommodations, and shockingly—no bathrooms. The absence of on-ground support meant anyone experiencing medical issues or other urgent needs was left searching for help that simply wasn’t there. And while the weather threw its share of unpredictability into the mix, it wasn’t the main issue—the real culprit was a lack of accountability.

My favorite artist of the night

Thankfully, the artists did their best to elevate spirits despite the logistical chaos. Glo Rilla brought her signature energy, delivering a performance that proved why she’s one of the most exciting voices in hip-hop right now. And then came a true Philadelphia legend—Musiq Soulchild, celebrating 25 years of his debut album, Aijuswanaseing. Hearing those timeless classics live reminded everyone of the power of real R&B, and it was a moment that transcended the festival’s shortcomings.

I attempted to see Latto but the dj sets in between were so long that I lost patience. In addition the smoke of the night was getting to see. I did see Miquel on the way out and missed Maxwell. I heard he was amazing.

Day Two Roots Picnic: The Redemption Arc We Needed

If Day One was a lesson in what not to do, Day Two was a masterclass in fixing what went wrong. Organizers seemed to hear the concerns, and the improvements were instantly recognizable. Bathrooms? Check. A clearer sense of order? Finally. More effective communication? Way better.

The lineup for Day Two was nothing short of electric. The Clipse made their presence felt with the kind of raw energy and lyrical precision that hip-hop heads live for. Then there was the icon himself—Lenny Kravitz, proving that rock and soul still have a firm grip on the music scene with a powerhouse performance that had the crowd absolutely vibing.

And of course, Philly’s own Meek Mill showed up and showed out, bringing an undeniable star power that energized the hometown crowd. The festival wouldn’t have felt complete without him. Other standouts included the effortlessly soulful Estelle and the smooth sounds of Raheem DeVaughn, who reminded everyone why his voice has been a staple in R&B for years.

Personal Takeaways: Moments That Mattered

This festival was a rollercoaster, but through it all, a few things stood out for me:

• I had a ball with my girl, Krystle! No matter how unpredictable things got, having my people by my side made everything worth it. Music festivals aren’t just about the artists—they’re about shared moments, laughs, and experiences that turn even messy situations into unforgettable memories.
• I kept it together. The festival’s rocky start could’ve easily overwhelmed me, but I was surprised at how well I handled everything. Even with the anxiety, I stayed present, enjoyed myself, and made the most of it.
• Music is and will always be self-care. No matter what’s going on, live music has this unmatched ability to heal, uplift, and restore. Seeing artists who truly connect with the crowd, watching people lose themselves in the beats, and just feeling the energy—this was a reset in the best way possible.

  

Festival Essentials Checklist: What You NEED to Bring

For anyone heading to a music festival, here are the essentials to make sure you’re prepared for anything:

• Positive Energy! – Even if things don’t go smoothly, you can still make the best of your experience!
• Snack Stash – Lines for food can be ridiculous. A granola bar or fruit snacks go a long way.
• Small Backpack or Crossbody Bag – Something secure enough to carry your essentials without weighing you down.
• Cash & Cards – Sometimes mobile payments fail. Having cash saves you in those moments.
• Lightweight Poncho or Jacket – Weather can change fast, and you don’t want to be caught in an unexpected downpour.
• Wet Wipes & Hand Sanitizer – Trust me, you’ll need them. Bathrooms (or lack thereof) aren’t always reliable.
• Sunscreen & Sunglasses – Whether it’s blazing hot or cloudy, protect your skin.
• Reusable Water Bottle – Staying hydrated is non-negotiable, especially when festivals underestimate water access.
• Portable Charger – Your phone will die faster than you think. Keep a fully charged backup on hand.
  Comfortable Shoes – Cute is good, but comfortable is key. You’ll be walking A LOT.

Roots Picnic 2025 started off rocky, but Day Two proved that redemption is possible with swift adjustments and listening to the community. While accountability should never be an afterthought, the festival ended with the kind of magic that reminds us why we keep coming back year after year.

Would I return next year? Only if the lessons from Day One stick. Also whatever they did day 2 do it next year because in previous years there had been entrance issues.