Roswell Roots Festival 2025 to feature Reuben Studdard and Atlanta Community Symphony Orchestra

The Roswell City Council's recent meeting on January 27, 2025, highlighted the upcoming Roswell Roots festival, which is set to be the largest Black History Month event in the Southeast. This annual celebration aims to honor and recognize the contributions of the Black community in Roswell and beyond.

The festival will kick off in February with a series of events designed to engage and educate the community. Notably, the Atlanta Community Symphony Orchestra will perform a concert titled "Rooted" on February 8 at Pleasant Hill Church, Roswell's oldest Black church. This concert will feature gospel spirituals and special guest cellist Ismail Akbar from Spelman College, emphasizing the influence of Black musicians on classical music. The event is free, making it accessible to all community members.

Another highlight of the festival is the performance by Reuben Studdard, the winner of American Idol Season 2, who will headline the event at the Roswell Cultural Arts Center on February 7. Known for his soulful sound, Studdard's concert promises to be a memorable experience for attendees.

Additionally, the festival will include a guided tour at Barrington Hall on February 1, focusing on the Black experiences in Roswell from historical perspectives. This tour aims to shed light on the untold stories of enslaved individuals and their significant contributions to the community.

The meeting also addressed other upcoming events in Roswell, including a community training session on active shooter response, hosted by the Computer Museum of America, and adult cooking classes designed for couples and friends. The Roswell Library will also host a winter book sale on February 8, providing an opportunity for residents to support local literacy initiatives.

Overall, the discussions during the meeting underscored Roswell's commitment to celebrating its diverse heritage and fostering community engagement through educational and cultural events. As the city prepares for the Roswell Roots festival, residents are encouraged to participate and explore the rich history and contributions of the Black community in Roswell.