Hammons Family Fiddle & Banjo Contest + World Class Jam
Experience the Hammons Family Fiddle and Banjo Contest Festival
Festival Dates
Friday, Sept 26 – Kick things off with a lively square dance at the Opera House, 7–9 PM, featuring The Nightcrawlers & Friends and legendary caller Lou Maiuri.
Saturday, Sept 27 – Discovery Junction hosts banjo and fiddle contests.
Contest
Compete in Old-Time Banjo, Bluegrass Banjo, and Fiddle contests—first place wins $500, second place $200, and third place $100. Ribbons are awarded to the top five finishers and in the youth categories.
Music Lineup
- Lonesome River Band
- Michael Cleveland & Cody Looper
- The Bing Brothers featuring Jake Krack
- The State Birds
- The Black Mountain Bluegrass Boys
- Jesse Smathers & Corbin Hayslett
- Modock Rounders featuring Bobby Taylor
- Robin & Dan Kessinger
- Mudhole Control
- The Nightcrawlers & Friends
Jam Hosts
Mike Bing • Tessa McCoy • Richard Hefner • Michael Cleveland • Tim Corbett • Jake Krack • Jesse Smathers • Cody Looper • Trevor Hammons • Steven Casto • Corbin Hayslett • Mary Sue & Mike Burns • Chandler Beavers • Robin & Dan Kessinger • Tim Bing • Jesse Milnes • Emily Miller • Robert Russell • Junior Loudermilk • Cody Jordan • Kim Johnson • David O Dell • Dave Bing • Andrew Dunlap • Todd Sams • Ryan Krofcheck • Will Carter • Robert Shafer • Joanne & Rick Davidson • Will & Pearse Marschner • Bob Lieving • Dan Wilson • Jake Stover • Edwin McCoy • Myra Morrison • Gerry Milnes • Bobby Taylor • Sammy Shelor • Mike Hartgrove • Adam Miller • Kameron Keller • Michelle Wallace • Tim Robinson • Chris Nickell
Festival Location
Discover Junction. 3rd Ave & 9th St, Marlinton, WV 24954.
Camping Available
Stay close to the action at Stillwell Park. Call (304) 799-7386 for details.
Masters of ceremonies
Bobby Taylor and Gerry Milnes
Contest Judges
David O’Dell, Dave Bing, Mike Hartgrove, Tim Bing, Todd Sams, and Sammy Shelor.
Volunteer Opportunities
Join us as a volunteer and be a part of this amazing festival. We are looking for enthusiastic individuals to help us make this event a success.
About Hammons Family Fiddle and Banjo Contest + World Class
The Hammons Family
The Hammons family from Pocahontas County, celebrated for their musical and storytelling heritage, have been cultural guides since the 19th century. Their collection of fiddle tunes, banjo repertory, ballads, and stories encapsulate a unique blend of Appalachian influences. As symbols of the early Appalachian frontier, the family has inspired and connected generations of musicians and admirers.
The Fiddle & Banjo Contest
Witness remarkable performances from varied fiddle and banjo talents as they vie for sought-after awards in two divisions: All-style Fiddles, and Traditional and Bluegrass Banjos. The event boasts the largest cash prize in West Virginia: $500, $200, and $100 for the gold, silver, and bronze spots respectively. Besides, ribbons up to fifth place in each category will be distributed, along with notable accolades for the young prodigies.
The World Class Jam
This event is not just about competition; it's a true celebration of music and community found in the heart of Marlinton, West Virginia. With world-class jam sessions resonating throughout the town, musicians, both local and visiting, gather in various spots to create enthralling harmonies that engage and delight residents and visitors. These genuine, impromptu jam sessions have become essential to the event's charm and spirit, transforming the streets and corners of Marlinton into lively, musical hubs. Beyond the contest lies a deeper purpose, showcasing the unity, diversity, and shared love for the authentic and enduring essence of music.
Pocahontas County’s Unbroken Chain
Check out this featured article in Wonderful West Virginia written by Stan Bumgardner
