Twelve concerts and international artists for only 45€ (presale until 15/04)?
That’s what Roots & Roses is offering for its 15th edition on 1 May.
Just imagine: two magnificent circus big tops, a green site just a stone’s throw from the historic town centre, a line-up bringing together seasoned artists alongside new discoveries and exclusive acts, good food and drink, and all this in a warm atmosphere with people who will welcome you with open arms (thanks to our dedicated volunteers)?
This music festival for bon vivants takes place every 1 May in Lessines (Belgium), the birthplace of René Magritte!
On 1 May 2026, the 15th Roots and Roses festival will bring together artists from six different countries in an intimate setting with the audience.
For its anniversary edition, the festival is focusing on the African roots and Latin influences of Anglo-Saxon and modern music genres such as blues, rock ’n’ roll, soul and Americana…
The very best of the best, such as Robert Finley – one of the last great bluesmen of our time – will be joining forces in Lessines with the cream of the Belgian blues scene, such as Roland from Cabana Belgicana (who once shared the stage with Rory Gallagher or Tim Hardin) and Big Dave, as well as the young prodigy Thomas Frank Hopper.
There will be exceptional voices and bands that have recently won prestigious awards: Jessie Lee, the French Beth Harth, who just won “Best Band of the Year” at the Blues Awards in France, or Dave Reniers, aka Big Dave, who not only won “Best Vocalist” at the 2026 Belgium Blues Awards but also took the Award for “Best Bluesmusician” home. And let’s not forget Connolly Hayes and Eddy Smith, the new sensations from England and Jovin Webb, who has won over millions of (TV) viewers.
Luther Dickinson (four-time Grammy nominee and co-founder of the North Mississippi Allstars), on tour with JD Simo & friends, will be one example of the instrumental virtuosity on offer on the modern blues scene.
Will you be able to resist the temptation of wild boogie or the infectious Latin rhythms on offer? The Animeros (making their European debut and whose reputation has skyrocketed in recent months), The Buttshakers (with their killer grooves) and Cabana Belgicana (with an Americana twist) have one mission: to get you dancing – or even flying high!
Meanwhile, Catalan’s Sergi Estella (1st gig in BelgiumBelgian-born) makes his own instruments,will highlight the earthy side of his music. He will open the festival and is definitely not one to miss! Authentic and powerful…
Roots&Roses stands for guitars, drums, brass, keyboards, harmonica… real instruments played by real musicians. It’s also a chance to discover new albums (several of the bands in the line-up have just released a new album).
Roots&Roses is a musical treat for connoisseurs… or a musical awakening for newcomers.
Bring your friends, as the price is right, but also your children – it’s free for under-12s and 12–18-year-olds only pay 20€.
We also have a separate space on the side with a wide range of entertainment for the young and the somewhat older !
Last but not least, Roots & Roses is renowned for its world cuisine menu (home-cooked using local produce) as well as its regional drinks and beers.
In other words, there’s no real reason why you shouldn’t come down to Lessines on May 1st and enjoy a great day of fun and music!
Looking forward to see you there!