The oldest such event in the Northwest Hills, the competition provides an ideal backdrop for a delightful New England summer afternoon and evening for all the family.

This year the proceedings kick off at the earlier time of 2PM when amateur and professional musicians and bands will pick up their fiddles, mandolins, banjos and guitars to perform for a crowd of up to 3,000 people.   At stake? The honor of winning one of the many categories and total prize money of $3,200 (generously donated by the Union Savings Bank).

To many the highlight of the day is the playoff between the individual winners, which is always entertaining and fun.

All the proceeds benefit the Roxbury Volunteer Fire Department and the contest is the department’s biggest fundraiser, enabling them to carry on their work saving lives, homes and property throughout the area.

Contestants can register beginning at 1.30PM and are judged in the following categories: old time fiddle, old time banjo, mandolin, trick and fancy fiddle, finger pick guitar, flat pick guitar, and bluegrass banjo.   Bands play between the individual categories.

Due to the nature of the event no electric instruments (except bass) are allowed and sadly our canine friends cannot be catered for.

Should you not have time to pack a picnic there will be plenty of food vendors to satiate the most ravenous of appetites, together with local artisans selling their crafts, vendors galore and a playground for younger visitors.

ONE highly recommends Roxbury Pickin’ n’ Fiddlin’ contest, which not only provides entertainment and relaxation for all, but raises money for the most worthwhile of causes.

Details:

Saturday, July 9, 2010 from 2PM

Rain Date: Sunday July 10, 2010 from Noon

Hurlburt Park, 18 Apple Lane, Roxbury, CT 06783

Admission: $10. Under ten years: Free

Free Parking.

(860) 354-5921

http://pickinnfiddlin.com/

www.roxburyct.com

All illustrations are by, and copyright, B. Steers.