“For over 25 years the weekend following Labor Day — the Roots and Heritage Festival has been a pinnacle of regional diversity providing entertainment & education for all ages. The colorful pageantry of the festival, combined with its high quality offerings of cultural and educational programs,  has earned its recognition as one of the Top Twenty Events in the Southeast by the Southeast Tourism Society and One of the Top Ten Festivals in Kentucky.”

Friday, September 5

Elm Tree Lane | 7 – 11 pm
African American Marketplace
“Shop the diverse vendors along the one mile stretch of the historic open market place!”

Friday Night Headliner: Nellie “Tiger” Travis

Saturday, September 6

Near Short & Elm Tree | 12 – 5 pm
KidsFest
“It’s ALL about the kids! KidsFest is bigger than ever this year with many activities for children to learn play and grow!”

Stage 2
Upstage: Youth Competition
“Ages 17 & younger, this is your chance to shine! Submit your performance info to stage2@rootsfestky.com. Winners recieve a historic performance on Stage 1! Deadline to submit is August 16th.”

4th and Elm Tree Lane | 11 am – 4 pm
Heritage Parade
“The parade begins at 11:00 am at the corner of 4th and Elm Tree Lane and ends just prior to the historic Lyric Theatre. Then join us again at 4th and Elm Tree Lane for the Parade Band Showcase!”

Elm Tree Lane | 11 am – 11 pm
African American Marketplace
“Shop the diverse vendors along the one mile stretch of the historic open market place!”

Saturday Night Headliners: Lakeside and Harold Melvin’s Bluenotes

Sunday, September 7

Lyric Theatre | 1 – 5 pm
Total Praise & Worship
“Come worship and celebrate with us as various singers and musical groups from the community lift up their voices in song.”

Elm Tree Lane | 10 am – 5 pm
African American Marketplace
“Shop the diverse vendors along the one mile stretch of the historic open market place!”