Gathering to feature top string bands
Comet staff report

The 35th-annual Indiana Fiddlers' Gathering will be June 22-24 at the Tippecanoe Battlefield Park in Battle Ground.

Held annually since 1973, the gathering is a nationallyrenowned traditional acoustic music festival. The show will feature some of the finest old-time, bluegrass, Irish and folk musicians assembled on one stage.

This year's headline acts will include Portland-based Foghorn Stringband and The Forge Mountain Diggers from Ashville, N.C. French- Canadian group Nightingale will return to perform this year along with a rare appearance by the old-time duo of Rayna Gellert (of Uncle Earl) and Susie Goehring.

Bluegrass group The Wright Sisters will make their professional debut at the gathering.

Concerts will be held rain or shine Friday at 8 p.m., Saturday at 2 and 8 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m.

Free events include a children's concert Saturday at 10 a.m., musicians workshops Saturday and Sunday at 9:30 a.m., square and contra dance with Nightingale at 5:30 p.m. on Saturday and a gospel sing Sunday at 10 a.m.

Members of the public may also sign up for open stage to be held Saturday and Sunday at noon.

Regional artists will also have crafts on display and the Tippecanoe Battlefield Museum will be open.

Food and musicians' supplies will be available on the grounds. Musicians are encouraged to bring their own instruments. A limited number of primitive camping sites are available during the event for a fee.

The weekend of entertainment is produced by Indiana Fiddlers' Gathering Inc., a non-profit organization, in cooperation with Tippecanoe Historical Association and Tippecanoe County Department of Parks and Recreation.

Tickets may be purchased in advance for a discount or at the gate. Family and youth discounts are available. Call (765) 742-1419 or visit www.indianafiddlersgathering. org to purchase tickets in advance or for more information.