Fiddle Fever

Shindig on the Green
Asheville l July 6, 13 & 20, August 10, 17, 24 & 31
It doesn’t truly feel like summer in Asheville until Shindig on the Green fills Pack Square Park with the refrains of traditional mountain music. On Saturday evenings, bluegrass and old-time string bands welcome newcomers to circle around for jam sessions, while cloggers and square dancers show off impressive footwork. The performers share their talents at Shindig’s sister event, the Mountain Dance & Folk Festival, on August 1-3 at Diana Wortham Theatre. Pack Square Park, Saturdays, 7-10 p.m.; free; www.folkheritage.org

Alleghany County Fiddler’s Convention
Sparta l July 19 & 20
Sparta is in a prime location to welcome amazing bluegrass and old-time players from North Carolina and Virginia. Fiddle phenoms and bands wow the crowds and the best take home cash rewards. The music spreads off-stage with jam sessions breaking out regularly. A dance contest showcases flatfooting, clogging, and buck dancing. Alleghany County Fairgrounds; Friday, 5 p.m.-until, Saturday, 10 a.m.-11:30 p.m.; www.alleghanyfiddlersconvention.com

North Carolina State Bluegrass Festival
Marion l August 15-17
Bring a lawn chair and an instrument and you’re set for three days of bluegrass performances and music workshops. Dry Branch Fire Squad will have a story or two to share between songs. Big Country Bluegrass, Nothin’ Fancy, and Bluebilly Grit are also among the stellar acts scheduled. Awarding-winning vocalist Rhonda Vincent and her band, The Rage, play two sets on Saturday, including the festival finale. Tom Johnson’s Camping Center Rally Park, Thursday, 11 a.m.-9:20 p.m., Friday, 11 a.m.-8:30 p.m., Saturday, 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; prices vary; (706) 864-7203; www.adamsandandersonbluegrass.com