95th Annual Athens Old Fiddlers Reunion & Contest

Celebrate nearly a century of music, tradition, and community at the 95th Annual Athens Old Fiddlers Reunion & Contest, one of the premier Texas fiddle contests in the state. This historic event brings together master fiddlers, rising stars, and multi-generational families for two days of incredible live music, lively jam sessions, and authentic Texas culture. The fiddle contest at the Texan Theater features all-ages divisions ranging from "Junior Junior" and "Junior" to "Senior," "Accompanist," and the prestigious Lone Star Fiddle Championship (Open). With more than $10,000 in prize money on the line, the contest draws talented musicians from across Texas and beyond, making it a must-see event for music lovers and visitors to Athens, Texas.

Beyond the competition stage, the Athens Old Fiddlers Reunion fills the entire downtown square with activity, music, and family-friendly entertainment. Visitors can experience the excitement of the Street Dances on the Courthouse Square featuring live music from Jody Nix and his Texas Cowboys and The Craig Howell Band. As the sun sets and the dance floor fills, the square comes alive with classic Texas dance tunes and an atmosphere that captures the spirit of small-town celebrations.

New this year, festivalgoers can enjoy Armadillo Races, adding a fun and uniquely Texas twist to the weekend's festivities. Car enthusiasts will appreciate the Bacon Auto Ranch Classic Car Show, showcasing vintage and custom vehicles that line the streets around the square. Families can stop by the St. Edwards Academy Family Fun Zone, where kids can enjoy games, activities, and interactive entertainment designed especially for younger visitors.

Throughout the weekend, the Food Truck and Community Market offers a wide variety of local cuisine, sweet treats, handcrafted goods, and artisan merchandise from area vendors. Musicians can be found jamming on street corners, under shade trees, and around every gathering spot, creating a soundtrack of fiddles, guitars, and laughter that echoes through downtown Athens.

Whether you come for the competition, the dancing, the food, or the fellowship, the Athens Old Fiddlers Reunion is a celebration of Texas heritage and community spirit. Bring your lawn chair, bring your friends and family, and enjoy a weekend filled with unforgettable music and hometown hospitality. Join us in Athens, TX as we continue the tradition and celebrate the countdown toward our historic 100th anniversary.

401 S Palestine #184
Athens, TX 75751

Traci Wilkes
info@athensfiddlersfoundation.org
https://www.athensfiddlersfoundation.org/

The Athens Old Fiddlers Foundation's mission is to preserve and celebrate the rich heritage of traditional music and fiddle music through community engagement and cultural initiatives. We aim to foster a deeper appreciation for this timeless art form, support local talent, and ensure its legacy for future generations by organizing live performances and music education programs.

Established as a Texas nonprofit corporation on June 13, 2024, the Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization based in Athens, Texas. It plays a central role in organizing the annual Athens Old Fiddlers Contest & Reunion, the longest-running fiddle contest in Texas, dating back to 1932. This free, family-friendly event features fiddling competitions, street dances, arts and crafts, classic car shows, and workshops, drawing musicians and fans from across the country.

Through its efforts, the Foundation ensures that the tradition of fiddling continues to thrive in East Texas and beyond.

This release was published on openPR.