52nd Annual Fiddlers Convention
The Tennessee Valley Old Time Fiddlers Convention is set to return to Athens State University on October 4 – 6 for a fun-filled weekend the whole family can enjoy. With an entertainment line-up featuring bluegrass superstars Flatt Lonesome, Rhonda Vincent & The Rage, and Ricky Skaggs & Kentucky Thunder, this year’s Fiddler’s Convention is shaping up to be one of the largest in the event’s 52-year history.
Originally, this annual gathering of bluegrass enthusiasts was held solely in the gymnasium at Athens State University. As years passed, the convention continued to grow. Now the event spans the entire campus as hundreds of contestants come from near and far to compete for an Alabama State Champion title in nearly 20 different categories of competition. Food trucks, arts & crafts vendors, and other attractions have become an event staple, with this year’s convention also hosting an Airstream Special Event Rally for the first time. The rally will take place from October 2-7, giving bluegrass fans from across the country a chance to come together and share their love of the craft.
Athens native, Bradley Walker, will kick off the convention with a tribute to honor Muscle Shoals’ beloved bluegrass musician and song-writer, Jake Landers. Walker is known for his amazing singing talents, and despite being unable to walk since birth, has prevailed in making his dreams and aspirations a reality. Walker’s performance will be held at McCandless Hall on Thursday, October 4 at 5:30 PM. Bluegrass group Flatt Lonesome will perform on the Alabama Farmers Cooperative Main Stage at 7:00 PM following Walker’s performance. Both shows will be free and open to the public.
On Friday, October 5, Rhonda Vincent & The Rage will take the Alabama Farmers Cooperative Main Stage with performances at 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM, followed by the beginning of competitions. Bluegrass legend Ricky Skaggs & Kentucky Thunder will perform on Saturday, October 6 at 6:00 PM, after which the competitions’ finals will commence. The cost to attend either of these concerts is included within the price of general admission.
With friends, family, and fans joining to support and enjoy the highly anticipated music and entertainment, this year will certainly be one to remember. The cost of admission is $15 per adult for Friday, $15 per adult for Saturday, or $20 per adult for a weekend pass. Proceeds will help support student scholarships and a variety of University projects. For more information or to obtain tickets for the event, please visit http://www.tvotfc.org. We look forward to seeing you!
This project is made possible in part by a grant from the Muscle Shoals National Heritage Area.