Pioneer Days is an annual festival that was established in 1967 and is held in Marlinton the second full weekend of July each year. Festival fun includes free nightly musical entertainment, parades, contests, pageants, a car show, carnival, arts and crafts, and more.
Pioneer Days is also home to a growing event that attracts old-time mountain music players from all over the country: the Hammons Family Fiddle & Banjo Contest. The contest begins at 10 a.m. Saturday, July 13, at Marlinton’s unique outdoor stage, Discovery Junction. For those in the know, the Hammons family of Pocahontas County is world-renowned for their musical and storytelling heritage. Their interpretations of fiddle and banjo tunes, ballads, and stories—in some cases the only known versions—are a unique blend of Appalachian influences. Symbols of the early 19th century expansion and settlement of the Allegheny Mountains, these legendary Pocahontas County residents have inspired generations of musicians and admirers.
As part of the contest celebration, jams will be hosted by well-known players in the old-time community throughout the town and bring lively music to the ears of ambulating attendees. For those who love to square dance, local legends Mud Hole Control will play tasty old tunes July 12, Friday night, 7:30–9:30pm. And Pioneer Days doesn’t stop with the old-time string bands! A variety of music will be available on the Southern States Stage as well as Discovery Junction throughout the festival. Pioneer Days is a haven for good old American leisure and fun with a horseshoe pitching contest and Fireman’s and Grand Parades as well as a Pet Parade and a look-alike contest. Classic car lovers will be in carvana at the annual Antique Car Show. If that’s not enough, there is also an Old-Time Spelling Bee and West Virginia History Knowledge contest as well as a Flea Market, Youth Block Party, and Bicycle Decorating Contest. For a full list of events, visit the Pioneer Days Association on Facebook.
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