1. Contestants must purchase admission ticket.

2. Contestants may compete in up to two individual and one band category, unless providing accompaniment to another individual competitor.  

3. Contestants may compete in EITHER youth or adult categories, but not both.

4. Individuals may not speak before or after their individual performance, as judging is blind. 

5. Any contestants not in line by one hour before category end time, will not be able to cross the stage and compete. 

6. Individuals will perform only one song. Bands will perform two songs. Songs should be limited to three minutes.

7. Only songs from the public domain; no copyrighted music.

8. All vocal entries should be traditional, original, or folk songs. Solo vocalists may play an instrument while they sing, and have one additional string instrument backup. Songs may also be presented acapella.

9. Acoustic instruments only, except electric basses as accompaniment only. Electric basses will not be judged in individual competition. 

10. If a contestant breaks a string while performing, or the sound system malfunctions, they have the option to stop immediately. They will be allowed to replace the broken string and repeat the performance without penalty. 

11. Judge's decisions are final, and will be supported by management.

12. By performing, all contestants agree that the convention and its affiliates may record and reproduce performances free of claim by contestants. 
     

Band Rules

1. To qualify, a band must consist of at least four members including a banjo, guitar, bass, and one of the following: a fiddle, mandolin, or dobro. Bands are limited to seven members. Bands must have the same members in all rounds of competition if applicable.

Junior Rules

1. Junior categories are limited to contestants aged 16 and under. Any contestants 17 and up must compete in adult categories.

2. Youth contestants can choose to compete in adult categories, but will not be able to compete in youth categories if they choose to do so. 

3. Junior bands must have at least three members age 16 and under, and may be accompanied by one adult.

4. Junior individuals may have one accompaniment of any age.