Carolina Hills Fiddle Fest results with photos

This run down of the results from the resurrected fiddlers convention in Union Grove, NC – with a huge gallery of photos – is a contribution from Bethany Prevette. Photos were taken by Katie Lohff.

The first annual Carolina Hills Fiddle Fest took place this past Memorial Day Weekend, celebrating 100 years of music in the Grove. Anniversary shirts were on sale, as well as a set of vintage records from previous Fiddler’s Grove conventions held at the property. There are still a few shirts and record sets available at the new Country Store on the property.

The Fiddle Fest started off with the Carolina Hills Band and Carolina Detour, setting up the stage and warming up the crowd for Lonesome River Band. Lonesome River Band played through the rain, with good attendance considering the weather.

Competition began Friday with a great youth turnout. Gabriella Rogers taking home the youth best of fest Mansfield Prevette Memorial Award – taking home a crystal trophy and $250 cash prize. Competition continued Saturday in the adult categories, taking a short break for a thunderstorm before resuming. There was a good turnout for adults as well, including Lois Shumaker who used to attend the previous conventions, who took home first place autoharp. Charlie Tolbert took home the adult best of fest award, the Doris Rigby Memorial Award.

A fun time was had by all, and plans are in the works for another festival Memorial Day Weekend, 2025.

And the 2024 winners are:

Youth Band