Experience the Magic of the Galax Old Fiddler’s Convention

The Galax Old Fiddler’s Convention is more than a music festival—it’s a week-long immersion into Appalachian music and culture.

Each August, Galax, Virginia, becomes a gathering spot for musicians, families, and music lovers. Visitors arrive by the thousands to soak up the music, meet old friends, and make new ones. They come from across the USA and a handful of foreign countries. Two pursuits dominate the week—music and camaraderie.

The music begins as the campers fill up Felts Park on Sunday morning. As soon as RVs and tenters settle in, the instruments come out. They’re not put away until the week’s winners are announced in the wee hours of Saturday night.

Whether you’re a picker, a listener, or a curious first-timer, the Galax Old Fiddler’s Convention offers an experience that will stay with you long after the last note fades.

A Tradition Spanning Generations

2025 marks the 88^th year of the Convention since its inception in 1935. (Two were missed due to WWII and Covid). In 1935, deep into the Great Depression, the newly formed Moose Lodge #733 began the fundraising event. Over the decades, it’s grown into one of the most famous events of its kind, drawing thousands of attendees and performers each year to Felts Park.

Despite its growth, the Convention has retained a down-home vibe. Walking through the Park, you’ll hear music from all corners of the 28-acre Park, from the main stage to impromptu jam sessions over by the Recreation Center.

Inclusive Competitions for All Ages

One of the defining features of the Galax Old Fiddler’s Convention is its inclusivity. With competitions for musicians of all ages, it’s a place where everyone, from shy beginners to seasoned regulars, can shine.

While fiddle and banjo remain at its heart, the Convention has expanded to include guitar, mandolin, mountain dulcimer, autoharp, dobro, singing, and flatfoot dancing competitions.

Youth Competitions: For those under 16, the Monday night youth competitions provide some on-stage experience. These young musicians take the stage with fiddles, banjos, guitars, and mandolins, showcasing their budding talent. Their performances confirm that the future of Appalachian music is in good hands.

Adult Categories: For adults, the competition gets crowded quickly. Behind the Main Stage is an enormous yellow tent where musicians tune up and line up for their turn to play. Some have crossed State and National borders to show their skill at Galax. This is where a win can boost an aspiring musician’s career. Each performance is a showdown, with musicians vying for coveted awards.

Band Competitions: The band categories bring a special energy to the event. Whether it’s an old-time string band or a high-energy bluegrass group, these performances are guaranteed to get your toes tapping.

Daytime: A Family-Friendly Affair

Competitions don’t start until 6 PM, so you’ll have time to visit the Park’s vendor booths and community tents. As you wander through the Park, you’ll find impromptu jam sessions, giving the family a close-up look at musical teamwork—how songs are chosen, what key to play them in, and the order of the solos. The laughter and fun of these sessions are hard to miss.

Veteran Galaxers sometimes like to get out of the Park for a bit each day, if only to stretch their legs and explore. Downtown Galax is just a few blocks away, with lots to see and do along Main Street. On hot days, nothing beats a cool dip in the community pool next to the Park. The Chestnut Creek School of the Arts (CCSA) in Downtown’s center has a gallery, a gift shop, and family-friendly activities. The Farmers Market, just north of the CCSA, offers fresh produce, homemade treats, and crafts on Thursdays and Saturdays. Chapters Bookshop has a children’s book section, and (for adults) a wine tasting (Fridays and Saturdays). Of course, take some time to explore a town full of mom-and-pop shops, restaurants, and galleries.

Nighttime: A Haven for Musicians

After the competitions, the Galax Old Fiddler’s Convention takes on a new energy. While the daytime activities are relaxed, the nighttime scene shifts into a celebration of musical brotherhood.

Everywhere you look, musicians gather for impromptu jam sessions. Under the glow of camping lanterns and string lights, fiddles and banjos blend with guitars and mandolins, creating a lively sound. These late-night gatherings are where the magic happens—lifelong friendships are formed, and the music flows freely.

For the musicians, it’s a chance to unwind, experiment, and connect with others who share their passion. For listeners, it’s an opportunity to experience traditional music’s raw, unfiltered beauty in its purest form.

Planning Your Visit to the Galax Old Fiddler’s Convention: A Snapshot

Here’s a snapshot if you’re ready to experience the Galax Old Fiddler’s Convention. The Moose Lodge provides more detailed information for performers and visitors on their Fiddler’s Convention website.

Event Basics: The Convention takes place in early August, with the 2025 dates set for August 4–9. Felts Park, two blocks south of the Galax Historic District on Main Street (Rte. 89), provides the perfect backdrop. Seating is available in the covered grandstand. There’s also space in front of the performance stage if you wish to bring a lawn chair.

• Restrooms, port-a-potties, and showers are available.
• Food and merchandise vendors are scattered along the midway.
• Camping in the Park is available on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Performer registration is required. See the Convention website for details.
• It’s a two-block walk to Downtown, where you’ll find restaurants and shops.

Tickets: Tickets must be purchased at the gate and are cash only. No advance ticket sales are offered. In 2025, day tickets run $10-$15, but discounted multi-day tickets are available. All current prices are listed on the Fiddler’s Convention website.

Accommodations: Galax offers a range of lodging options. From hotels to bed-and-breakfasts and campgrounds, there are lots of options. On-site camping is popular for those looking to fully immerse themselves in the convention experience. Hookups are available for RVs, but no electricity or water is available at tent sites.

What to Bring: Comfortable clothes and sunscreen are essential. August days in the mountains can get hot, but nights are cool, so take a jacket and rainwear.

A Celebration Worth Experiencing

Whether you’re traveling with family, seeking musical inspiration, or simply looking for a memorable experience, the Galax Old Fiddler’s Convention has something to offer. Pack your bags, grab your instrument, and prepare to be swept away by the magic of Galax—where tradition and progress coexist, and the music never stops.

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Wayne Jordan is a Galax-based writer and storyteller. His Scots-Irish ancestors settled in the Blue Ridge Mountains in 1760, and he has deep roots there. The author of four books, Wayne is a retired Senior Editor for WorthPoint Corporation, a long-time columnist for Kovels Antique Trader Magazine, and a contributor to regional newspapers and travel publications. He blogs at BlueRidgeTales.com.