Alleghany County Fiddlers Convention

The Alleghany County Fiddlers Convention will be held Friday and Saturday, July 17 and 18 in Sparta, N.C., at the Higgins Agricultural Fairgrounds on U.S. 21.

The convention, now in its 15th year, has competition for bluegrass and old time musicians in band, individual, and youth categories, along with dance for adults, juniors and children. Special music, cloggers, plenty of food vendors and camping are also featured. Seats are available in the ample grandstand, or bring a folding chair to set in front of the stage.

Highlights include performances by Big Country Bluegrass on Friday evening and a dance workshop free to convention attendees at 2 p.m. on Saturday.

A total of $2,850 in cash prizes will be awarded to contest winners. Emcees are Sonia Joines and Harold Mitchell. Camping is available beginning at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, July 15.

Admission is $6 for Friday, $7 for Saturday, or $10 for both days. Children under 12 free with adult. Camping spaces are $12 per night per space, with or without hookup, and are first come, first served.

For more information, see www.alleghanyfiddlers.com.