The Washington County Fairgrounds Board of Directors is proud to announce the return of its Third Annual Abingdon Virginia Old Time, Bluegrass and Bluegrass Gospel Fiddlers’ Convention, Fiddlin’ At The Fairgrounds, June 21-23.
For the third year, another day of competition is being added to the schedule. Not only will there be the traditional old-time and bluegrass band and individual competitions; this year the convention is adding a Bluegrass Gospel Band Competition following the Fiddlers’ Fellowship Bluegrass Service on Sunday, June 23.
With the support from local government, regional businesses, and numerous music enthusiasts, this event has been created to bring people from across the country to Washington County for a week of Fiddlin’ fun, fellowship, and to compete with other old-time, bluegrass and bluegrass gospel musicians for more than $8,500 in prize money and prizes.
One of the prizes the winner of the Bluegrass Band Competition will receive is one free day of recording at Hendersonville, Tennessee,-based Billy Blue Records.
In addition, there will be other incentives for competitors to win door prizes donated from local
businesses, allowing everyone a chance of winning, regardless of skill level.
More than a competition, you will be able to walk through the campground to find heritage music being played throughout the contestants’ and spectators’ campsites. Within the campsite jams, you may come across flat foot dancing or find a professional musician taking the time to play music with a young child that is just starting out. There will be educational opportunities for those wanting to improve their skills throughout the weekend by well-known musicians. Numerous vendors will be set up selling local goods, promoting their businesses, and organizations. A Fiddlers’ Convention is not complete without good food. Local food trucks will be selling their tasty treats.
The Convention is a fundraiser for the Fairgrounds to raise money for capital improvement projects of the property and create opportunities to host more community events throughout the year at the Washington County Fairgrounds. Additionally, a youth scholarship is being created to help further music education to our next generation.
Ticket prices are $10 for adult and $3 for youth on Friday; $15 for adult and $3 for youth on Saturday and $5 for adults and $3 for youth on Sunday. Weekend bands are $25 for adults and $5 for youth. Kids under 12 are free and competition is free. Dry RV camping is $35 and tent camping is $10 per tent.
