On Saturday, Aug. 12, Chester County Parks + Preservation welcomes all musicians and music lovers to celebrate traditional music at the 94th annual Old Fiddler’s Picnic. The event runs from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Hibernia County Park.

At 9 a.m., groups and individuals may register to play on the main stage on a first-come, first-served basis.  Solo acts are allotted 10 minutes and up to 20 minutes for groups. 

Beginning at 10 a.m., visitors can enjoy the stage shows and can stroll through the Fiddler’s Cove to watch and listen to musicians play bluegrass, old-time and gospel tunes using a variety of instruments, including guitars, banjos, mandolins and, of course, fiddles. Children and those new to string instruments are encouraged to learn by observing, and talking to the musicians in the relaxed, music-filled atmosphere.  

At 2 p.m., a fiddle-off contest will take place on the stage, with prizes for the top three winners. The first 10 entrants that register for the contest will take part, and registration begins at 9 a.m.   

The Old Fiddlers’ Picnic also features craft and novelty vendors and food trucks.  Tours of the 19th century Hibernia Mansion are offered throughout the afternoon beginning at 1 p.m. A $3 donation per person is requested for the Mansion tour.

Lawn chairs and blankets are encouraged. Canopies, tents, and alcohol are not permitted. Pets are welcome but must be on a six-foot lead.

Parking and admission for the Old Fiddler’s Picnic are free, and the rain date for the event is Sunday, Aug. 13. 

Camping at Hibernia Park during the Old Fiddler’s Picnic weekend is available on a first-come, first-served basis by registering online at www.chesco.org/parks.    

Hibernia County Park is located in Wagontown, four miles north of Coatesville off the Route 82 exit of the Route 30 Bypass. The park address is 1 Park Road in Coatesville.  For more information, go to www.chesco.org/parks, or email [email protected].