Fiddler's Picnic adds competitions to annual event

There is something about outdoor music that livens up the atmosphere. The organizers of the annual Fiddler's Picnic know this, and each year they endeavor to bring the sounds of fiddles, banjos, bass, and more to New Holland.

As is tradition, this year's picnic will be held on Labor Day, Monday, Sept. 4, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. in the New Holland Community Memorial Park, which is located in the 400 block of Jackson Street, New Holland. Live music will begin at 10 a.m. Musicians are encouraged to arrive early to reserve a slot on the park stage.

Sue Noll, secretary/treasurer of the New Holland Summer Arts Program (NHSAP), said that a new feature for 2023 will be fiddle and banjo contests. The banjo contest will be held at noon, and the fiddle competition will be held at 2 p.m. "I came up with this idea (for the contests) off the top of my head," said picnic organizer Ron McVey, who will judge the fiddle contest. "I thought we would try it and see what happens." The banjo contest will be judged by Keith Kupp. McVey hopes the competitions will draw more musicians and attendees to the event. Cash prizes will be awarded for first, second, and third places for both contests. Those wishing to compete may sign up at the event.

In addition to string players, individuals who play the accordion, harmonica, or keyboard may visit the park to join in on well-known favorites such as "Rocky Top," "Foggy Mountain Breakdown," "Orange Blossom Special," and "Golden Slippers." Country and bluegrass tunes are staples of the musical program.

The picnic portion of the event is supplied by the New Holland Lions Club, which brings its food trailer and offers items for purchase. Traditionally, club members serve the hot ham sandwiches for which the Lions are known in the area, along with barbecued chicken, chicken corn soup, hot dogs, sides, and beverages. NiCE SiZE FRiES and Schaatz Ice Cream will be on-site, as well.

NHSAP, which organizes a number of concerts in the park each summer, is an all-volunteer organization that has existed in New Holland for more than three decades. "We are still in need of volunteers in a big way," said Noll, who noted that help is especially needed with setting up prior to concerts and clearing the park afterward. Volunteers to accept freewill offerings for NHSAP during intermissions are also needed.

No admission is charged for NHSAP events, but freewill offerings are received. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs. To learn more about NHSAP, visit http://www.newhollandsummerarts.com or search for "New Holland Summer Arts Association" on Facebook. Those interested in volunteering may email through a link on the aforementioned website, send a Facebook message, or call 717-355-9795.