Smithville Fiddler’s Jamboree Celebrating 50 Years In-Person

The Smithville Fiddler’s Jamboree will celebrate its 50th anniversary in-person this summer.

Director of Marketing Shan Stout said the two days of music and dance competitions begins on July 2nd.

“Our board has voted and made a unanimous decision to move forward with the Jamboree, and we have received the blessing of our city government leaders,” Stout said. “And, we are working very closely with our emergency responders and the government in how to do that the most safely.”

Stout said the festival’s biggest addition this year is a brand new stage. Stout said thanks to state grant funding, it has new audio technology and is large enough to socially distance performers.

“We’re having a brand new stage built with some new advancements, and that will also help with some social distancing,” Stout said. “And helping our performers have a great place to be able to perform and compete on this national platform.”

Stout said since the stage will also be ADA compliant, a new inclusion category has been created. Stout said performers with disabilities now have the chance to compete.

“One good thing that is happening that we have actually never had before is the virtual jamboree last year opened up a new group for a special needs category,” Stout said. “We have an inclusion category that we have now received additional grant dollars to be able to have handicap accessible approved ramps.”

With last year’s event being virtual only, Stout said she expects a large turnout. As a response, Stout said the event has different guidelines to facilitate a safe event.

The number of contestants will be limited and seating will be socially distanced by groups. Stout said a total number for performers has yet to be set, but guidelines will become official closer to the event date.