The town of Weiser in southern Idaho is a quiet little community of just 5,365 residents. It’s easy to overlook this rural destination when searching for places to visit since it may seem like there’s not a lot to see in this quaint town. However, you’d be dead wrong. It turns out that Weiser is home to a highly-acclaimed Fiddlers Festival that takes place every year. Thousands of people come out to this little town just to see The National Oldtime Fiddle Contest and Festival, and it’s a must-see event for any music-lovin’ Idahoan. Be sure to mark your calendars because this is one music festival you don’t want to miss out on.
There's a reason Weiser has earned the nickname of "The Fiddling Capital of the World." Home to the annual National Oldtime Fiddlers’ Contest and Festival, this small town does not mess around when it comes to fiddling and putting on a good time.
Fiddling contests are no new occurrence. They've been happening in our country since the 1700s, and it was in 1953 that Weiser held its very first annual fiddle contest. Today, it's recognized as one of the most prestigious fiddler contests in the world.
The festival has changed quite a lot since its first year over 60 years ago. Today, over 200 fiddlers compete in eight divisions and thousands of people come out to see them. Weiser, a town of just 5,000 people, expands rapdily during the festival to become one of the most hoppin' places in the state.
Winning the fiddlers contest is a big deal, and watching these world-class musicians perform is definitely a treat. Each fiddler is allowed just four minutes to play three songs, including a hoe-down, a waltz, and their tune of choice.
Fiddling is obviously a big portion of the festival, but that's not all this event has to offer. Festivities also include a carnival, street vendors, a parade, and other family-friendly activities.
Jam sessions are also a huge part of the festival's culture. You'll often see groups of people huddled around outside, jamming for hours on end and filling the town with the sound of lively music.
Considering the National Oldtime Fiddlers' Contest and Festival is considered a world-class fiddling event, it should be every Idahoan's priority to see it for themselves. The festival takes place during the third full week of June every year so be sure to mark your calendars. More information can be found at their website.
Have you been to this epic Fiddlers Festival in Weiser? It just goes to show that you should never underestimate Idaho’s rural communities! If you enjoyed learning about this one-of-a-kind event, be sure to check out our list of 6 Tiny Towns In Idaho Where HUGE Things Happened.
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