When is the fiddlers convention in galax va

For some this means hundreds of miles of travel, while for others it will be a sort trip from their nearby homes. Mose of these people do not play music and come just for the listening, and renewing of old acquaintances. However, a few hundred come with heir instruments to show their skill and compete for the cash prizes which total thousands of dollars. Most of them would come without the prizes being offered.

They want to see and be seen and hear and be heard. The instruments vary from mount harps in pockets, to bull fiddles strapped on top of cars. Some well-known entertainers have competed in or attended the Convention over the years including Janette Carter, Doc Watson, and Ricky Skaggs. Two conventions were held in but by the last one that fall, the indoor facilities had been outgrown, and the Convention was moved to Felts Park and has been held there each year since, except when weather forced it indoors temporarily.

The Convention was cancelled due to the COVID global pandemic, but members are hoping and planning for the 85th annual renewal to go on this year August In , a Saturday afternoon program was started to relieve the pressure of competition on Saturday night. A few years ago, a Wednesday night performance was added. In , Tuesday night competition was added. With the advent of a new after school traditional music program called Junior Appalachian Musicians JAM in , a youth competition was started that year, which added Monday night to the schedule.

This has become one of the most popular attractions of the Convention. This is America at its best. The Old Fiddlers Convention has grown a lot over the years. What started out as two, seasonal, day-long, indoor conventions has slowly expanded into one, week-long celebratory extravaganza. Musicians come from all over to show their skill and compete for the thousands of dollars in cash prizes. A shrinking minority have been coming here since - most would come even if there were no prizes.

Felts Park includes a covered grandstand but you can also bring a picnic blanket or lawn chair. A wide variety of food and drinks will be available for purchase, along with musical and other merchandise from various vendors.

Old Fiddlers Convention Galax Lodging Many musicians and fans will camp over at the convention grounds throughout the week.