Harpers Ferry World Fiddle Day / May 16-17, 2025

Welcome to Harpers Ferry World Fiddle Day! This event is inspired by "World Fiddle Day" that began in Ireland, and has spread to various cities and countries. Harpers Ferry World Fiddle Day is organized in partnership with the Harpers Ferry-Bolivar Historic Town Foundation. Proceeds will benefit the revitalization of the First Zion Community Center, an historic building being renovated for use as a cultural center.

On Friday May 16 -Saturday May 17, you'll have the opportunity to hear exemplary musicians from the region who are specialists in traditional fiddle playing, the music of Appalachia, and beyond. Experience jam sessions, workshops, and concerts in the charming location of historic Harpers Ferry, WV. All events will be within walking distance of each other. There is lodging in town, and at nearby hotels.

SCHEDULE & DETAILS

FRIDAY MAY 16, 8pm-10pm. KICK-OFF PARTY with live music at The Barn of Harpers Ferry, 1062 W. WASHINGTON ST. Neo-traditional band Kate MacLeod's Mind the Gap (Kate with Paul Hammerton, and John Bryant) will be hosting the night, with special guest musicians. $5-at door (and a tip jar) all going to the musicians. You can reserve in advance at this site, or donate at the door.

SATURDAY MAY 17 - Events All Day
Seating at events is "General Seating"

10am-12:30pm: Morning music at Snallygaster's Cafe, 1102 W. Washington St. Free (tips for musicians encouraged)

12noon-5pm: Music Jam Session, for musicians. Held at the Light Horse Inn, 1084 W. Washington St. Free

1pm-3pm: WORKSHOP-Irish and Scottish Fiddling. Donation at door: $10 per/Adult. 16 and under Free. You can reserve in advance at this site, or donate at the door. Musicians leading tis workshop are Joe DeZarn (fiddle), Pat Egan (guitar) and Kate MacLeod (fiddle).

3pm-5pm: WORKSHOP-Old Time and Bluegrass Fiddling. Donation at Door, $10 per/Adult. 16 and under Free. You can reserve in advance online at this site, or donate at the door. Musicians leading this workshop will be Dave Van Deventer, and others TBA.

7:30pm: EVENING CONCERT. An event designed to bring to light the cultural significance of the music. Advance ticket purchases are recommended in case the event sells out. $25-per Adult/Advance Purchase. $30-per Adult/At Door. 16 and under free, please notify organizers of the number of children you will bring ([email protected]) so that we can reserve seats. This concert will be held at the Camp Hill-Wesley United Methodist Church, 601 Washington St, Harpers Ferry, WV 25424. Musicians performing in this concert are Morgan Morrison, Dave VanDeventer, Joe DeZarn, Pat Egan, and others TBA.

The Barn of Harpers Ferry is open until 11pm for after-hours revelry.

As a fundraiser, additional donations are welcome.

For questions concerning this event, contact Kate at: [email protected]

Host or Publisher Shanahy