Every year, the Tennessee Valley Old Time Fiddlers Convention attracts history buffs and music lovers alike to the Athens State University campus. These visitors arrive ready to dive deep into Alabama’s rich tradition of folk music at a gathering some fans describe as profoundly spiritual. This evocative celebration of the Cotton State’s fiddle tradition proves that music is the best equalizer around, and one-time visitors tend to become life-long devotees. If you’re looking to explore one of Alabama’s oldest festivals, then the Old Time Fiddlers Convention belongs on your bucket list. Attend this year on October 4-7!
Since 1967, Athens State University has hosted scores of fiddle fans and folk artists who gather for the Fiddlers Convention. Over 56 years, the celebration evolved leaps and bounds from its original venue in the college gym.
Nowadays, over 200 musicians of all ages descend on the small town of Athens to compete in a series of competitions over four consecutive days of play. Their award? The coveted Tennessee Valley Fiddle Championship!
Historians have long considered Alabama's musical tradition to be particularly rich. In the 19th century, Scots-Irish and African peoples created dynamic folk styles that took deep root in regional religious customs, community entertainment, and labor practices.
When folksong collectors and talent scouts visited the state in the 20th century, they discovered communities and artists with deep reservoirs of home-grown songs.
Music has no language or geographic barriers. Still, local traditions like those preserved by Alabamian fiddlers can help define what makes a community unique. With over 15,000 annual attendees, clearly the music performed at the Fiddlers Convention continues to resonate with Alabama residents.
Besides the competition, visitors can also peruse a local craft market with over 150 vendors for artisanal goods. Hungry? Delicious eats are within walking distance of the festivities.
The event strives to be inclusive to all merry-makers. For adults, the cost of admission is $20 per adult, $25 per adult for a weekend pass, and children under 12 may enjoy the celebration free of charge! Wednesday and Thursday night concerts are free for all people to enjoy.
