May 23-25...  For a weekend of old time and bluegrass music, you just can't beat Fiddler's Grove in Union Grove, NC.  This is the finest family-style festival that we attend, making this our fifteenth (or so) year.  Along with exciting bluegrass and old-time band and individual competetion, the weekend featured concerts by Doc Watson, Robin Warren, Mel Jones, the Trantham Family, Laura Boosinger, Hal Beaver, and Taylor Dunn and more.  The Cockman Family performed each night and closed on Sunday.  Fiddler's grove is America's oldest continuous fiddler's convention, and received the "Local Legacy Award" from the Library of Congress in Washington, D.C.

Harper and Wansie Van Hoy work tirelessly in preparation for this annual event, along with their children and grandchildren.  They make an extreme effort to provide guests with a clean, family-style atmosphere.  Their spirit is received and amplified by the hundreds of musicians and singers in attendance, giving the festival the feel of a big family reunion.  Even though mid-week rains left the roads and camping areas a bit muddied, the weather was almost perfect as we celebrated the 79th continuous year of this special event.  It was a very memorable festival for the Cockman Family, especially when long-time friend Daniel Cross announced his engagement to Crystal Fisher (Kelly's Daughter)!  For more information visit www.fiddlersgrove.com.