Road closures, parking guidance, and city services in place for a major summer weekend of music, culture, and celebration

PHILADELPHIA — Today, the City of Philadelphia announced key transportation, parking, and public safety plans for the 2026 Roots Picnic, taking place Saturday, May 30 and Sunday, May 31, at Belmont Plateau in Fairmount Park, during a press conference with city leaders and event organizers ahead of the festival weekend. 

“This is Philadelphia continuing to do what it does best,” said Mayor Cherelle L. Parker. “We set the stage for moments where culture, community, and music come together in a way only this city can deliver. I am especially proud of the hard work and coordination across city departments and our partners to ensure we can deliver an experience that is safe and enjoyable.”

With anticipation building for a weekend anchored in live performances and citywide energy, officials emphasized that Philadelphia continues to serve as the backdrop for iconic events at scale, especially in a year where the nation marks its 250th anniversary.

“As we celebrate America’s 250th, the energy across Philadelphia this summer is undeniable,” said Jazelle Jones, City Representative and Director, Office of Special Events. “We’re proud that the Roots Picnic is part of a season where this city continues to lead in culture, creativity, and celebration.”

Set against one of Philadelphia’s most iconic public landscapes, the Roots Picnic returns as a centerpiece of the City’s summer cultural season, reinforcing Philadelphia’s long-standing identity as a premier destination for large-scale music, arts, and community events rooted in its public park system.

At Belmont Plateau, a Philadelphia Parks & Recreation (PPR) site, the City is emphasizing coordinated planning across transportation, public safety, and park operations to ensure a safe and accessible experience for attendees and surrounding neighborhoods.

“The Belmont Plateau is where Philadelphians have gathered for generations and where music, connection, and hip-hop culture have always lived,” said Susan Slawson, Commissioner, Philadelphia Parks & Recreation. “We are thrilled to have the Roots Picnic reignite a beloved summer tradition in one of the city’s most iconic gathering spaces.”

As one of Philadelphia’s signature summer events, the Roots Picnic continues to draw attendees from across the region and highlight the city’s role as a national destination for live music, arts, and cultural celebration.

“The Roots Picnic is the kickoff to the summer in Philadelphia and has grown to become a cultural institution in this incredible city,” said Brandon Pankney, VP of Business Development and Operations, Live Nation Urban. “We are ecstatic to bring the biggest Roots Picnic ever to the historic Belmont Plateau.”

For tickets, lineup and more information about the Roots Picnic, visit therootspicnic.com, or 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 began on Monday, May 18.

The following street will be closed starting at 6 a.m. on Monday, May 18, until approximately 6 p.m. on Wednesday, June 3:

  • Belmont Mansion Drive, between Chamounix Drive and Montgomery Drive

The following street will be closed intermittently starting at 9 p.m. on Wednesday, May 27, until approximately 11:59 p.m. on Wednesday, May 27:

  • Montgomery Drive, between Belmont Avenue and I-76

The following streets will be closed starting at 9 p.m. on Friday, May 29, until approximately 5 a.m. on Monday, June 1:

  • Montgomery Drive, between Martin Luther King Drive and Belmont Avenue
  • Ramps from eastbound and westbound I-76 (Schuylkill Expressway) to Montgomery Drive (Exit 341)

Chamounix Drive, between Ford Road and Belmont Avenue, will be closed to vehicular traffic on Saturday, May 30 and Sunday, May 31.

Martin Luther King Drive will be closed to vehicular traffic and closed for recreational use on Saturday, May 30 and Sunday, May 31.

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 Belmont Plateau is located in Fairmount Park and is easily accessible by public transportation, car, rideshare, or bike. The Belmont Plateau encourages patrons to arrive early, as traffic conditions vary for all performances. Please check local traffic reports before traveling to the Belmont Plateau.

 

Public Transportation 

SEPTA is a convenient option for traveling to Belmont Plateau, which is served by Bus Route 38. SEPTA will also provide additional services during and after the event to accommodate attendees. Detour information and updates or changes to service will be published on SEPTA’s System Status page and  TransitView on the SEPTA app. Riders should check System Status regularly or follow @SEPTA on X for updates. Detour times are subject to change.

 

Ride-sharing 

Attendees are encouraged to use ride-sharing services at the designated pick-up and drop-off location at Wynnefield Avenue and N. Georges Hill Drive. View or consult your ride-share app for an exact pin location to meet your driver.

Parking Information

While parking is FREE, please be advised that space is limited and guests are encouraged to use public transit or rideshare. Parking is on grass and parking attendants are readily available to assist you with finding open spaces.

 

Accessibility 

Roots Picnic is an accessible event and is dedicated to ensuring access to all the event amenities. The information guide 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.com

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