Texas State Championship Fiddler's Frolics
Hallettsville, Texas

Where: The Knights of Columbus Hall in Hallettsville, Texas

When: late April [check for this year's dates]

Let the sounds of "St. Anne's Reel" or "Ashokan Farewell" guide you to the Knights of Columbus Hall, where the 2,345 residents who call Hallettsville home welcomes music lovers each year for a four-day fiddle fest featuring top Texas talent.

Competition: As the saying goes, there are two types of Texans-- those who are born here and those who get here as fast as they can. The self-proclaimed "City of Hospitality" rolls out the welcome mat for those not fortunate enough to be a Lone Star citizen with the Gone To Texas division designed specifically for out of state players. Five judges will determine the winners as they listen to a menagerie of medleys ranging from swing tunes to schottisches.

Continuing the tradition of Texas tunesmiths, 15 semi-finalists will take the stage to perform their self-penned songs in the Songwriter's Serenade Contest. The judges will narrow the playing field down to six contestants, who will vie for the first place title.

As its name implies, imagination is a fiddler's only boundary in the "Anything Goes" competition. After the performers wow the crowd with their bowing tricks, get ready to let the good times roll during Cajun and Bluegrass Fun Night.

Four-string fiddles make way for a six string showcase during the Guitar Accompanist contest. The competition is open to musicians of all ages.

Texas State Championship Cook-Off: While music is food for the soul, taste buds are also in for a treat as cooks battle for bragging rights for the best barbecue, brisket, gumbo, pork ribs and pinto beans during the annual Texas State Championship Cook-Off, held in the BBQ Pavilion.

Other Events: Since its introduction in 1971, music lovers have brought their instruments on opening night for a jubilant jam session. Participants and audience members should gather at the Hall Pavilion-- the free show begins at 6 p.m.

If Cajun and country tunes make your toes tap, shuffle your shoes to the beat of live entertainment during the Saturday night dance.

Legendary musicians are honored during the Texas Fiddler's Hall of Fame ceremony. Held at the Knights of Columbus Hall, music lovers can visit the memorabilia on display each Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. until 11 a.m.

Children's Activities: Future fiddlers might get inspired to pick up a bow after watching their peers perform in the Pee Wee subdivision-- contestants aged 10 and under, and musicians 15 and under in the Forest Craig Freshmen Division. Kids looking for non-musical merriment can enjoy the array of amusement rides at the carnival.

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For more information:

• visit www.fiddlersfrolics.com