Roswell Roots Festival Starts Jan. 27

ROSWELL, GA — The city of Roswell is just days from beginning its 18th annual Roswell Roots Festival. This popular celebration, which runs concurrently with Black History Month, will feature nearly two dozen events ranging from music and art to food and poetry, the city said.

Roswell Roots: A Festival of Black History and Culture is one of the largest and most comprehensive celebrations of black history and culture in the Southeast. The 2019 installment, as in previous years, will include something for everyone. The festival also "strengthens community ties and helps celebrate Roswell’s culture both past and present," the city added.

Share in Roswell’s diverse history while discovering more about African American heritage, art, food and contributions. Highlights for this year's festival include:

Jazz Vespers, 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Jan. 27 at Roswell Presbyterian Church, 755 Mimosa Boulevard (Free)

Experience the ancient liturgy of Vespers, combined with the melodic and harmonic rhythms of jazz with Atlanta Jazz Chorus and Quartet under the direction of Dr. Dwight Andrews, Pastor of First Congregational Church and Emory University’s Professor of Music.

Southern Soul Fixins, a Roswell Roots Soul Food Cook-Off, 12:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Feb. 10 at the Bill Johnson Community Activity Building, 10495 Woodstock Road (Free)

Savor the rich and soulful flavors of Roswell’s most talented cooks. Community members are invited to participate in the competition by preparing a meat-based side dish, vegetarian side dish, bread, or dessert. Those interested in participating as a taste tester are welcome to attend this parade of culinary arts.

LIVE! In Roswell Presents: Ranky Tanky, 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Feb. 16 at the Cultural Arts Center at 950 Forrest Street ($30 per person; $25 for seniors, students and military members)

Translated loosely as “Get Funky,” Ranky Tanky performs their interpretation of the timeless music of the Gullah culture – from playful game songs to heartbreaking spirituals and delicate lullabies – updated with gospel vocals, jazz trumpet solos, and an R&B rhythm section. To purchase tickets please visit RoswellCAC.com.

Third Annual Roswell Roots Arts Festival, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Feb. 23 at Roswell Double Tree Hotel, 1075 Holcomb Bridge Road (Free)

Discover heritage and culture through the artwork and creativity of black artists and creatives from Metro Atlanta. Original art and handmade items will be available for purchase.

For a full list of Roswell Roots events, visit www.roswellroots.com.

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