Upcoming

Roswell’s 18th Annual Roswell Roots Festival. In conjunction with Black History Month in February, there will be 20 events, ranging from music and art exhibitions to food and poetry. Fora full list of events: RoswellRoots. com. Selected highlights of this year’s festival include:

■ Jazz Vespers. 4-6 p.m. Sunday. Free. Roswell Presbyterian Church, 755 Mimosa Blvd., Roswell. Experience the ancient liturgy of Vespers, combined with the melodic and harmonic rhythms of jazz, with the 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 CookOff. 12:30-3:30 p.m. Feb. 10. Free. Bill JohnsonCommunity Activity Building (BJCAB), 10495 Woodstock Road, Roswell. 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. 8-10 p.m. Feb. 16. $30/$25 seniors, students and military. Cultural Arts Center, 950 Forrest St., Roswell. 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. Tickets: RoswellCAC.com

■ 3rd Annual Roswell Roots Arts Festival. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Feb. 23. Free. Roswell DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel, 1075 Holcomb Bridge Road, Roswell. Discover heritage and culture through the artwork and creativity of black artistsand creatives from Metro Atlanta. Original art and handmade items will be available for purchase.