Abingdon Fiddler's Convention returns for second year

Violins are seen in the workshop of Martin McLean near Cookstown, County Londonderry, Northern Ireland on January 22, 2020.. – Carving amber wood and …

Violins are seen in the workshop of Martin McLean near Cookstown, County Londonderry, Northern Ireland on January 22, 2020.. – Carving amber wood and plucking at delicate strings in his rural Northern Ireland studio, violin-maker Martin McClean compares the EU to his patron — a patron with whom he will part ways when Brexit happens on January 28. The EU paid for half of McClean’s £50,000 (Euros 60,000) garden studio outside the town of Cookstown — stacked with slender glinting tools and precious timber he collects with a magpie-like intensity. (Photo by PAUL FAITH / AFP) / TO GO WITH AFP STORY BY JOE STENSON (Photo by PAUL FAITH/AFP via Getty Images)

by: Ben Gilliam

Posted: Mar 22, 2023 / 12:25 PM EDT

Updated: Mar 22, 2023 / 03:29 PM EDT

ABINGDON, Va. (WJHL) – The Town of Abingdon is set to host one of the region’s largest bluegrass and old-time music competitions for the second time.

According to a release from the Washington County Fairground’s board of directors, the Abingdon Old-Time & Bluegrass Fiddler’s Convention (Fiddlin’ At The Fairgrounds) is set to return on June 9 and 10.

$7,500 in prizes have already been pooled for the weekend’s music competition, and additional prizes from local business donors will be given out as a drawing for all competitors.

From food trucks and vendors to informal jam sessions scattered throughout the two-day event, organizers said the event promises something for everyone. Campsites are available for attendees and competitors, and organizers hope it will lead to a closer musical community.

“Within the campsite jams you may come across flat foot competitions,” the release stated. “Or find a professional musician taking the time to play music with a young child that is just starting out.”

Competition in the event is free, and attendance prices are broken down below:

-Friday: Adults $10, Youth $3
-Saturday: Adults $15, Youth $3
-Full Weekend: Adults $20, Youth $5

For more information on vendor participation, event schedules and camping reservations, visit the event’s website.