Tennessee Valley Old Time Fiddlers Convention

Known as the Gradddaddy of MidSouth Fiddlers Conventions, the TVOTFC attracts some 15,000-20,000 old time music enthusiasts to the campus of Athens State University the first weekend in October each year. Competition categories include: Harmonica, Mandolin, Bluegrass Banjo, Dobro, Dulcimer, Old Time Singing, Beginning Fiddler, Finger Picking Guitar, Senior Fiddler, Old time Banjo, Classic Old Time Fiddler, Flat Picking Guitar, Bluegrass Band, Junior Fiddler, Old Time Band and Buck Dancking. $11,870 in cash prizes are awarded to the five finalist in each category, with the Fiddle Champion receiving $1,000 and a loving cup trophy. An Arts and Crafts show is held in conjunction with the musical competition. Proceeds go toward scholarships and other campus projects.