Looking for an enjoyable way to spend a summer afternoon and evening? At the top of that list of possibilities should be attending the Alleghany County Fiddlers Convention. This family oriented event is scheduled for July 21st and 22nd in Sparta, North Carolina at the Alleghany County Fairgrounds. Here are five reasons you should plan to attend:
#1 Be a part of a longstanding mountain tradition. String music and fiddlers’ conventions are an integral part of Appalachian culture. These gatherings give neighbors opportunities to get together to share tunes and reestablish old friendships. Toss in some friendly competition and you have a fiddlers convention. As you wander through the campground, you will be treated to a variety of very fine old-time and bluegrass music. Do you play or are you a budding musician? Most jams are welcoming to newcomers. Keep in mind there is usually informal etiquette that may vary from group to group. General jam etiquette can be found here.
#2 This is a fundraising event. The proceeds raised benefit our community. This event is one of the primary fundraisers for the Sparta-Alleghany Volunteer Fire Department. Entrance fees go to help this group of dedicated volunteers keep our community safe. Once inside the gates, the Sparta Lions Club offers delicious hamburgers and hotdogs. And there are a host of other vendors who pour their resources back into the community.
#3 Enjoy a cool mountain evening. While much of the south is simmering in oven-like temperatures in mid-July, Alleghany County evenings can be quite cool, averaging in the low 60s. You may consider bring a sweatshirt or light jacket just in case!
#4 You will feel welcomed. From the volunteer firefighter who helps you with parking to the lady serving a made to order funnel cake, you will experience a sense of belonging to our community. In fact, this welcoming atmosphere is often given as the number one reason people return year after year.
#5 It’s fun! The stage show gives musicians of all skill levels a chance to perform. There is a dance area where everyone is welcome to practice their favorite steps. If you don’t know how to dance, there are folks who are always looking for a partner and will be more than happy to lend you a hand.
The Alleghany County Fiddlers Convention is more than a music event. Music and dance help balance culture and erase class boundaries. This event is a place where new friendships are formed and old ones strengthened. It has a “come as you are” air that is a unique part of mountain life. Who would want to miss that?
For complete information about the Alleghany County Fiddlers Convention, visit their website here. Photos were retrieved from this site.
For information on lodging, restaurants, and other retail needs, visit the Alleghany County Chamber of Commerce’s website here or call them at 336-372-5473.
The videos were retrieved from the YouTube channel, Lovin’ Bluegrass by Carol McDuffie. Visit her channel for more great videos.
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