"the People's Paths!" Cherokee News Path - National Holiday Fiddlers Contest

TAHLEQUAH, OK — The Fiddlers Contest at the 56th Annual Cherokee National Holiday is a great place to enjoy the sounds of some of the area’s most talented fiddlers. The contest will be held on Saturday, August 30, at 1 p.m., in the gymnasium of Talking Leaves Job Corp.

“The Fiddle Contest is a great way to enjoy some good music,” said Jerry Bigfeather, event coordinator. “Our competition is held in an air-conditioned facility, with good seating, good food and great entertainment.”

The contest will include four categories: a junior division for participants 17 years of age and younger, an old timers division for fiddlers 65 years of age and older, an open division with no age requirement and a no holds barred division that is open to fiddlers of all ages to play one tune of any tempo or style.

All contestants in the junior, old timers and open divisions must play a hoedown, waltz, and a tune of the fiddler’s choice. Cash prizes will be awarded in each category. The entry fee is $5 per contestant, per division. Written rules will be available at registration. Registration will be from 10 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. Admission is free to the public. Door prizes will be awarded.

The Cherokee National Holiday has been held since 1953 in tribute to the signing of the 1839 Cherokee Constitution. It has grown into one of the largest events in Oklahoma, attracting more than 90,000 visitors from across the world.

Each year a theme is chosen for the Cherokee National Holiday that celebrates Cherokee Nation’s rich heritage and culture. The 2008 theme is "di ni yo tli u na li s de lv do di, Planting the Seed Corn for our Children's Future."

“In this theme, we honor all the Cherokee parents and grandparents whose everyday actions are dedicated to establishing strong, self-sufficient children and communities. Cherokee community members have great respect for these individuals who care and plan for the Cherokee Nation’s leaders of tomorrow,” said Smith.

For more information about the fiddlers contest contact Jerry Bigfeather, phone: 918-453-5123.