The City of Roswell will mark a major cultural milestone in 2026 as the Roswell Roots Festival celebrates its 25th Anniversary, commemorating a quarter-century of honoring Black history, culture, and community. To launch this Silver Anniversary year, the festival kicks off on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, January 19, with a special opening event, The Story of Martin Luther King Jr. and continuing through February 28.
Founded in 2001 by the Groveway Community and the Roswell Roots Committee, Roswell Roots has grown into one of Georgia’s most respected and expansive Black History Month celebrations. What begun as a grassroots effort evolved into a regional cultural destination featuring dozens of events that uplift African American voices, stories, and expression.
A Milestone Year with an Expanded Lineup
The 2026 festival opens on MLK Day with The Story of Martin Luther King Jr., setting a powerful tone for the anniversary celebration and inviting the community to reflect on Dr. King’s legacy, leadership, and lasting impact. The expanded kickoff underscores the festival commitment to education, remembrance, and meaningful dialogue.
Notably, the 2026 lineup features the 2025 Suzi Bass Award winner for Outstanding Production of a Musical, a newly created work by Atlanta-based artists. In conjunction with America250 in Roswell, GA celebration, several concerts explore iconic genres of African American–born music, highlighting their historical roots and enduring influence on American culture.
25 Events for 25 Years
Roswell Roots 2026 reflects the festival’s five core pillars of Roswell Roots–art, education, culture, performance, and history–with programming designed for all ages and interests. From concerts and comedy to film screenings, lectures, theatrical performances, exhibitions, and even a historically inspired Bid Whist Card Party, the festival invites the community to engage, reflect, and celebrate.
SIGNATURE TICKET EVENTS
The Story of Martin Luther King, Jr. | Monday, January 19 at 11:00 a.m.
Tickets: From $12
A family-friendly performance honoring the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., brought to life by actor John Doyle, highlighting his pivotal role in America’s Civil Rights Movement. Read more.
History to Hip-Hop | Sunday, February 1 at 4:00 p.m.
Tickets: From $17
An all-ages concert and look at our history through the sounds that shaped our culture—from field songs and spirituals to gospel, blues, jazz, country, rock & roll, funk, rap, and today’s hip-hop. Read more.
Dad’s Garage BlackGround | Saturday, February 7 at 7:00 p.m.
Tickets: from $17
BlackGround is an all-African-American comedy troupe of hilarious performers, amazing guests, killer comedy, and a fun-filled celebration of Blackness! Read More.
Roots Slam & Jam Open Mic | Friday, February 13 at 7:00 p.m.
Tickets: $12
An all-new event that shines the spotlight on you. It is a showcase, not a competition. A night where performers of all kinds can share five minutes of fame around the theme of Celebrating Black Excellence. Read more.
Legacy and Groove – A Tribute to Earth, Wind & Fire | Saturday, February 21 at 7:00 p.m.
Tickets: From $31.00
The Ray Howard Band captures the groundbreaking spirit of Earth, Wind & Fire with precise instrumentation, soulful vocals, and the irresistible energy that made their music legendary. Read more.
Young John Lewis in Concert | Thursday, February 26 at 7:00 p.m.
Tickets: From $31.00
Theatrical Outfit’s award-winning new hip hop musical examines the ten crucial years in the early life of the congressman, and his journey from student activist to major leader in the Civil Rights movement. Read more.
William “Blues Man” Reed and the Juke Joint Dukes | Saturday, February 28 at 7:00 p.m.
Tickets: From $12.00
Mr. Reed is the real deal—his soulful voice and storytelling songs transport you straight into a smoky Chicago nightclub, while the band’s rhythm and groove make the classic blues tradition come alive. Read more.
In addition to signature performances, the full festival lineup includes visual art exhibitions, author talks, film screenings, family programs, history tours, documentary screenings, musical experiences, and youth outreach events. To explore the full list of events, view schedules, and stay updated on 25th Anniversary highlights, visit RoswellRoots.com.
Join us in Roswell, GA for the 25th Anniversary Roswell Roots Festival with art, education, history, performances and culture. This community celebration is one of the many reasons Roswell is the #1 Family Community in America.
VENUE & TICKET INFORMATION
These performances take place at the Roswell Cultural Arts Center located at 950 Forrest Street, Roswell, GA 30075. FREE event parking is available in the lot beside the arts center and across the footbridge in Lower Lot F at City Hall. Tickets are currently on sale and may be purchased online at roswellcac.showare.com or by calling the Box Office at 770-594-6120.
ABOUT ROSWELL ROOTS
Celebrating its 25th year, Roswell Roots is a community-wide, month-long festival that honors our diverse community and celebrates Black History Month. Roswell Roots aims to educate, impact, and promote cultural awareness. Programs and events focus on welcoming all community members and offers an opportunity for all ages to engage and participate. RoswellRoots.com.