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Athens Today
By the People, for the People
Athens Old Fiddler Reunion celebrates 95 years of East Texas tradition
The annual event brings together fiddlers of all ages to honor the rich history of the musical genre in the region.
Apr. 18, 2026 at 3:48am
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The 95-year-old Athens Old Fiddlers Reunion celebrates the enduring tradition of fiddling in East Texas with a vibrant, community-driven musical celebration.Athens TodayThe Athens Old Fiddlers Reunion is celebrating its 95th anniversary, bringing together fiddlers from across East Texas to honor the long-standing tradition of the musical style in the region. The event features numerous competitions and jam sessions, and has grown to become the biggest fiddling competition in the state. For the foundation board members who have watched it evolve over the decades, the event has become a beloved community tradition and family reunion.
Why it matters
Fiddling has deep roots in East Texas, with the genre tracing its origins back over a century. The Athens Old Fiddlers Reunion was established during the Great Depression as a way to bring the community together and provide some joy during difficult times. The event has endured for nearly a century, serving as a celebration of the region's musical heritage and a gathering place for multiple generations of fiddlers and music lovers.
The details
The 95th annual Athens Old Fiddlers Reunion is taking place on April 17, with the main events happening on April 18 at the Henderson County Courthouse square. The event features numerous fiddling competitions, as well as jam sessions and other activities celebrating the genre. The reunion has grown to become the biggest fiddling competition in the state, drawing participants from across the region.
- The Athens Old Fiddlers Reunion was established during the Great Depression.
- The 95th annual event is taking place on April 17-18, 2026.
The players
Traci Wilkes
A board member of the Athens Fiddler Foundation, which organizes the annual reunion.
Mary Ensign
A board member of the Athens Fiddler Reunion Foundation and the event historian.
What they’re saying
“It's happy music, it's very heartwarming.”
— Traci Wilkes, Athens Fiddler Foundation board member
“Keeping the tradition, keeping it going. We will have people coming through and say 'oh my god, I can't believe it's still going on. My granddaddy fiddled here a long time ago', and it means a lot.”
— Mary Ensign, Athens Fiddler Reunion Foundation Board Member and event Historian
What’s next
The 95th annual Athens Old Fiddlers Reunion will continue on Saturday, April 18, 2026 with additional competitions, jam sessions, and celebrations of the region's fiddling heritage.
The takeaway
The Athens Old Fiddlers Reunion has endured for nearly a century, serving as a beloved community tradition and a celebration of the rich musical history of East Texas. The event's longevity and continued popularity demonstrate the deep-rooted importance of fiddling in the region, and its ability to bring people together across generations.
