The 61st Canadian Open Old Time Fiddle Championship takes place here Aug. 3 to 7.
Sponsored by the Rotary Club of Shelburne, with partners Dufferin Mutual Insurance Company and the Town of Shelburne, the event features Canada’s top fiddlers in competition for over $17,000 in prizes.
Besides championship fiddlers, this year’s event will include a concert by Louis Schryer, step dancing, jam sessions, parade, beer garden, Battle of the Bands, a pork barbecue, a non-denominational church service, a Bon Jovi tribute band, Trooper with The Eagles tribute band, open air market, lots of entertainment and food at the Legion, camping and more.
On Aug. 4 at 7:30pm, the Rotary Club welcomes back eight time Canadian Open Old Time Fiddle Champion and four time Canadian Grand Masters Fiddle Champion Louis Schryer. Joining the show will be his daughters, Chelsey and Kaitlyn, energetic step dancers.
The Canadian Open Old Time Fiddle Championship play downs happen on Aug. 5 at 1 and 7pm at the Shelburne arena. Classes that will compete in the afternoon include the young (age 9 and under, and 10 to 12) and the young at heart (56 and over). The evening features the remaining classes.
The contest finals are on Aug. 6 at 6:30pm and will feature entertainment by fiddling and step dancing groups the Jenish Sisters, and Rittmai. A judges’ showcase will also be part of the Saturday night entertainment, featuring Doug McNaughton, Karen Reed, and Schryer.
There is a wide variety of ticket packages available. Ticket outlets include Holmes Appliances and Music Shop, 147 Main Street West, Shelburne, or by phone at 519-925-8620.
For more information visit shelburnefiddlecontest.on.ca.
