Fiddlers’ Conventions
The community gatherings that have kept old-time and bluegrass music alive for nearly a century — and where you can hear them yourself.
A Century of Community Music
Fiddlers’ conventions are the heartbeat of Appalachian music. They are part competition, part reunion, and part campground jam — places where families return year after year, where a teenager’s first fiddle tune is heard beside a master’s, and where the music is taught the way it has always been taught: by ear, in person, late into the night.
The oldest and most famous is the Galax Old Fiddlers’ Convention, held every August since 1935. But the region hosts many others, from Fries and Grayson County to Mount Airy and the North Carolina highlands.
Regional Conventions
The oldest and largest old-time fiddlers’ convention in the world, held each August in Galax since 1935.
Full guideA community fiddlers’ gathering in the mill town where the New River Trail begins.
Details coming soonA county convention celebrating Grayson County’s deep old-time fiddle tradition.
Details coming soonA major annual convention just across the state line in Mount Airy, North Carolina.
Details coming soonA North Carolina highlands convention preserving Alleghany County fiddle traditions.
Details coming soonAn Ashe County, North Carolina gathering of old-time fiddlers and string bands.
Details coming soonA memorial convention honoring Henry Reed, the legendary fiddler whose tunes were recorded by Alan Lomax.
Details coming soonA Rockbridge County convention along the Maury River.
Details coming soonA Washington County convention in the historic town of Abingdon.
Details coming soonA Southwest Virginia county convention preserving Tazewell fiddle traditions.
Details coming soonPlanning Your Convention Visit
Camping
Most conventions offer camping, and the campground jams are half the experience. Reserve early — Galax fills up months ahead.
Competitions
Categories include fiddle, banjo, guitar, mandolin, bluegrass band, and old-time band. Spectators are welcome at all stages.
Getting There
Galax and Fries are an easy drive from the New River Trail. Combine a convention with a day of cycling or hiking along the river.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a fiddlers’ convention?
A fiddlers’ convention is a gathering where old-time and bluegrass musicians compete, jam informally, and celebrate traditional music. The oldest and largest is the Galax Old Fiddlers’ Convention, held every August since 1935.
Do I need to play an instrument to attend?
No. Most attendees are listeners. Conventions welcome spectators, campers, dancers, and families. Many also host informal jam sessions anyone can join.
Can I camp at the conventions?
Many conventions offer on-site or nearby camping. The Galax convention in particular is famous for its campground jam culture. Check each convention’s website for camping reservations and rules.
Are fiddlers’ conventions family-friendly?
Yes. Conventions are community events with food vendors, crafts, and a welcoming atmosphere. Children are welcome, and many young musicians compete.
Did You Know?
- The Galax Old Fiddlers’ Convention has run nearly every August since 1935, pausing only for World War II.
- Fiddlers’ conventions are judged by peers who know the regional styles intimately — not outside critics.
- Many conventions predate commercial recording of the music they celebrate.
Combine Music and the Outdoors
Plan a trip that pairs a day on the New River Trail with the living musical heritage of Southwest Virginia.