Fiddler's Gathering This Weekend

A Fiddler’s Gathering featuring some of the best musicians from the region is scheduled this weekend at Meadowcreek near Fox.

The event, which features the Arkansas State Old-Time Fiddle Contest, is organized by the new Ozarks Old-Time Fiddle Association. The weekend begins Friday at noon with music jams all day, and a concert in the barn 7-9 p.m. with music by Harmony and Herbin’ League.

The fiddle contest begins Saturday at 11 a.m. with fiddlers of all ages competing for the title of state champion.

Youth (ages 11 and under) and Juniors (ages 12 – 16) will begin the competition at 11 a.m. In the afternoon, Seniors (ages 60 and up) and Adults (ages 17 – 59) will begin playing at 2 p.m., with the Grand Championship round following the presentation of the Senior and Adult awards.

Judy Kent, chair of Old Time Ozark Traditions, says that the competition will follow rules and procedures that have been used in previous years at the Ozark Folk Center State Park.
There is no charge for audience admission to the event. Attendees are encouraged to bring a chair and a picnic lunch and drinks.

More information on the contest is available at OldTimeOzarks.com/fiddle-contests.
Gathering organizers have created a dance floor in the historic Meadowcreek barn and it will be put to use in a barn dance beginning at 7 p.m. Kim Lansford, LillyAnne McCool, and David Scrivner will provide music, with caller Allison Williams.

Sunday will feature more jams and workshops until 2 p.m.
Portable toilets will be available at the campsite and the barn. Primitive camping spots with potable water may be rented for $10.

Meadowcreek is located southwest of the Fox community. Turn at Fox Post Office and follow signage along six miles of county road, most of which is gravel but is traversable by passenger car. More specific directions are posted on the event Facebook page.

Funding for the Fiddler’s Gathering and contest is provided by Arkansas Folk and Traditional Arts, Ozark Traditional Arts, Old Time Ozark Traditions, Meadowcreek Inc., Arkansas Arts Council, Ozark Highlands Radio, Mountain View Music and others.