PHILADELPHIA – The City of Philadelphia released road closure information for the 2024 Roots Picnic. The Roots Picnic is a two-day festival of music, art, and culture that takes place on Saturday and Sunday, June 1–2 at The Mann Center at Fairmount Park.

Festival Activities & Information

The Roots Picnic, presented by Live Nation Urban and The Roots, features performances by Jill Scott, Lil’ Wayne & The Roots, and Nas. The two-day festival is part of the larger Roots Picnic Weekend event that includes the Roots Picnic Con, taking place Friday, May 31 at the Fillmore.  Roots Picnic Con is a free one-day convention filled with informative sessions about topics ranging from achieving financial health to the importance of music education and creativity in Philadelphia school districts.

For tickets, lineup, and general information about the Roots Picnic, visit therootspicnic.com. For performance details, festival updates, and the latest information, follow the official Roots Picnic social media accounts on X and Instagram, or by downloading the official Roots Picnic mobile app, available on iOS and Android.

Road Closures & Parking Restrictions

To accommodate venue construction and the two-day festival, gradual lane restrictions and road closures around the West Fairmount Park area and Overbrook neighborhood will begin on Monday, May 20.

The following street will be closed starting at 6 a.m. on Monday, May 20 until approximately 6 a.m. on Thursday, June 6:

  • States Drive, between Belmont Ave. and Avenue of the Republic

The following streets will be closed starting at 6 a.m. on Tuesday, May 28 until approximately 6 a.m. on Friday, June 7:

  • South Concourse Drive, between Belmont Ave. and 52nd St.

The following streets will be closed starting at 6 a.m. on Thursday, May 30 until approximately 6 a.m. on Friday, June 7:

  • Avenue of the Republic, between Belmont Ave. and 52nd St.

The following streets will be closed starting at noon on Friday, May 31 until approximately 8 a.m. on Friday, June 7:

  • North Georges Hill Drive, between Belmont Ave. to 52nd St.

Additional road closures may be implemented at the discretion of Philadelphia Police and public safety officials based on conditions.

Motorists are advised to use caution when traveling in the affected areas, allow for extra travel time and obey all posted signs and instructions from Philadelphia Police.

Getting There

The Mann is located in Fairmount Park and is easily accessible by public transportation, car, rideshare, or bike. The Mann Center encourages patrons to arrive early, as traffic conditions vary for all performances. Please check local traffic reports before traveling to the Mann. For more information, visit www.manncenter.org/visit/travel. 

Public Transportation

The Mann is easily accessible via SEPTA thanks to the SEPTA Mann Loop. The Mann Loop bus departs from 19th and Locust and has eight to 12 stops on the way to the Mann. Return buses depart from the Crawford Circle drop-off at the Mann 30 minutes after shows.

Riders pay for The Mann Loop the same way you would for any other SEPTA ride, including SEPTA Key (loaded with a pass or Travel Wallet) or cash.

For more information on The Mann Loop, including the complete list of stops and schedule, visit www.iseptaphilly.com/mannloop.

Rideshare

The Mann has a dedicated rideshare drop-off and pick-up location at the North Gate, located on Georges Hill Drive. View or consult your rideshare app for an exact pin location to meet your driver. Parking attendants will be on-site to assist with directions.

Parking Information

Parking at the Mann is FREE. Parking is on grass and parking attendants are readily available to assist you with finding open spaces. The main parking area is clearly signed and accessible off Avenue of the Republic.

Accessibility

Roots Picnic is an accessible event and is dedicated to ensuring access to all the event amenities. The information guide located on the FAQ page explains the services provided this year, including wheelchair accessibility, designated ADA Parking and ADA Entrance, Accessibility Services Hub, Accessible Viewing Areas, and Effective Communication Services.

For any accessibility-related questions not answered in the guide, please email The Roots Picnic at RootsPicnicADA@gmail.com. 

Public Safety Information

Throughout the event, the City will provide law-enforcement support, traffic control, and emergency medical services for the event and in the surrounding vicinity.

In addition, the public should expect congestion in the area. If you are attending the event, make a plan regarding driving, public transit, parking, and supervision of children. It is recommended that attendees wear comfortable, weather-appropriate attire.

Please refer to the Roots Picnic FAQ for a list of permitted items, prohibited items, and the official bag policy of the event.

Event Alerts

Sign up for free text alerts from the City to get weather, transit, and event details, and public safety updates. Text ReadyPhila (one word, no space) to 888-777.

For tips and general information about being prepared and ready at special events, read the Special Event Safety Guide before you attend.

Additional Information for Media

For all press/photo inquiries, please send portfolio, publication, and the number of passes requested to RootsPicnic@theoriel.co.

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