BERKS FIDDLE FEST 2006
It’s shaping up to be an incredible year for Berks Fiddle Fest, with exciting new programming and unforgettable performances added to the 2026 lineup!
New this year, the festival will feature a special headliner concert by Nyke Van Wyk, an internationally recognized violinist known for blending classical and Celtic traditions with contemporary energy. His appearance offers a rare chance for our community to experience world-class artistry in an accessible, hometown festival setting—and it’s a performance you won’t want to miss.
Opening the festival’s featured concert is Midnight on the Water, weaving traditional fiddle tunes into pop, jazz and R&B songs. Their performances and educational work across the country reflect the very heart of Friends of Fleetwood Parks’ mission—honoring tradition, fostering cultural preservation, and bringing people together through music.
In celebration of America’s 250th Anniversary, Berks Fiddle Fest will also welcome the Brandywine Colonials Fife & Drum Corps. Their stirring music and historic pageantry provide a living connection to our nation’s past and add a powerful, patriotic moment to this year’s festivities.
With these three exciting additions—and so much more planned—Berks Fiddle Fest 2026 promises to be one of our most memorable festivals yet. Mark your calendar, spread the word, and get ready to celebrate music, history, and community all in one place! See you September 20th!
SPECIAL EVENTS FEATURED AT THE 2026 FIDDLE FEST
SPECIAL HEADLINER CONCERT WITH NYKE VAN WYK
Nyke Van Wyk is a talented violinist known for his innovative approach. With his signature style and captivating stage presence, Nyke has wowed audiences worldwide with his electrifying performances. Blending his classical and Celtic training with contemporary flair, Nyke brings a unique sound and energy to the world of violin. Whether on stage, in the studio or in the classroom, Nyke’s passion for music and his violin continues to inspire and captivate audiences everywhere.
SPECIAL SALUTE TO AMERICA 250
SPECIAL PERFORMANCE OF BRANDYWINE COLONIALS FIFE & DRUM CORP
A living, breathing tradition, an ensemble of fifers, drummers, and flag bearers who proudly carry the sound and spirit of the American Revolution into the 21st century. Rooted in Topton, Pennsylvania, most of our members were alumni of the Brandywine Heights High School Fife and Drum Corps.
SPONSORSHIP
BECOME A SPONSOR
Whether you’re a corporation, small business, or individual, join the growing list of sponsors and supporters who help make the Berks Fiddle Fest possible—bringing outstanding music, family-friendly entertainment, cultural traditions, and community pride to thousands of visitors each year.
It's not too late to become a sponsor of the Berks Fiddle Fest! Join the growing family of businesses, organizations, and individuals who help preserve this beloved tradition while bringing outstanding music, cultural heritage, and family-friendly entertainment to thousands of visitors from across the region.
$2,500
MAINSTAGE SPONSOR
Listed as a Sponsor of the event on all Announcements and Printed Materials
Name announced from the stage at Competition breaks as the specific event sponsor
Listing on the Berks Fiddle Fest Sponsor Banner
Listed on website & newsletter as a Sponsor of the specific event
Company Banner on the Mainstage
Name on Program Cover
$1,000.00
THE MORNING CONCERT SERVICE BAND SPONSOR
FIDDLE COMPETITION SPONSOR
THE JAMMIN’ AREA SPONSOR
F.I.R.E. COMPETITION SPONSOR
OPEN MIC STAGE SPONSOR
Listed as a Sponsor of the event on all Announcements and Printed Materials
Name announced from the stage at Competition breaks as the specific event sponsor
Listing on the Berks Fiddle Fest Sponsor Banner
Listed on website & newsletter as a Sponsor of the specific event
Opportunity to hang your own banner at the event
Name on Program Cover
$500.00
MUSICIAN WORKSHOP SPONSOR
HEADLIINER BAND SPONSOR
SOUND PACKAGE SPONSOR
Listed as a Sponsor of the specific event on all Announcements and Printed Materials
Listed as a Sponsor of the event on all Announcements and Printed Materials
Listing on the Berks Fiddle Fest Sponsor Banner
Listed on website & newsletter as a Sponsor of the specific event
Opportunity to hang you own banner at the event
Name on Program Cover
$250.00
OPEN MIC SPONSOR
Listed as a Sponsor of Open Mic on all Announcements and Printed Materials
Listed as a Open Mic Sponsor on all Announcements and Printed Materials
Listing on the Berks Fiddle Fest Sponsor Banner
Listed on website & newsletter as an Open Mic Sponsor
Name on Program Cover
$100.00
FIDDLIN’ FRIEND SPONSOR
Listing on the Berks Fiddle Fest Sponsor Banner
Listed on website & newsletter as a Fiddlin’ Friend Sponsor
Name on Program Cover
ALL DONATIONS ARE TAX-DEDUCTIBLE. EIN #: 26-0759138
Click the link below to become a donor today or download the sponsor form.
SPONSORSHIP DEADLINE: August 13, 2026. AFTER THIS DATE, WE CAN NOT GUARANTEE YOUR NAME WILL BE INCLUDED IN ANY PRINTED MATERIAL FOR THE FESTIVAL.
Questions: berksfiddlefest@gmail.com
Make checks payable to: Friends of Fleetwood Parks
THE FIDDLE COMPETITIONS
THE FIDDLE COMPETITIONS
The festival features three fiddle competitions in three categories for people to take part in. Listed below are the rules for competing along with the registration forms and requirements.
This is an amateur competition. Everyone competing should be considered of “amateur” status and does not make their primary living as a fiddle player and/or teacher.
1. Two Tunes recommended each one is 50% of your score. By only playing one tune, you will only receive 50% of highest possible total. Classical Violin pieces may be played but will not count in the overall score.
2. Six-minute time limit - Any fiddle style is permitted.
3. Playing “Orange Blossom Special” is NOT allowed.
4. Three age groups: Group 1- up to 12 years; Group 2 - 13 to 17 years; and Group 3 - 18 years and up.
5. If desired a single accompanist may be provided, if available, or you can use your own. No more than one accompanist, none on the fiddle, and only the fiddle contestant may play the melody. The accompanist may only play basic backup with no lead or solo playing.
6. No sheet music or electronic instruments allowed during the contest.
7. Contestant MAY NOT announce the name of the tune before playing. The Emcees will announce the tune.
8. Contestants are NOT allowed to say their name, any previous awards in any fiddle contest, or whom they took lessons from. They will be given a number for the judges to use in the contest. Names WILL NOT be announced on the stage at any time during the competition.
9. The contest will start at approximately 1:15pm with Group 1. Each group will be followed by approximately a 30-minute break, Cash awards can be mailed, other awards will not be mailed and must be picked up day of festival or by special arrangement with festival officials.
10. We do ‘blind’ judging. Our three judges are not facing the stage.
11. A third Tune should be planned in case of a “Fiddle-off’.
EVENT SCHEDULE
2026 BERKS FIDDLE FEST SCHEDULE
Please note: Schedule is subject to change.
9AM - 6PM - FIDDLER CRAFT ROW
Over 40 vendors of crafts and more open throughout the entire day.
FIDDLER CRAFT ROW
9AM - 6PM - JAMMIN AREA
Grab your instrument and jam with other fiddlers all day long or just listen to the music.
JAMMIN AREA
10AM - GOSPEL SERVICE
The annual tradition kicks off the festival.
MAINSTAGE
10AM - SCOTTISH FIRE QUALIFIER
Fiddlers compete to qualify in Scottish Fire Competition.
FIRE/OPEN MIC STAGE
10:30AM - MIDNIGHT ON THE WATER
Weaves traditional fiddle tunes into contemporary sounds.
MAINSTAGE
11:30AM - NYKE VAN WYK WITH BRET ALEXANDER
Enjoy this special 90-minute headliner concert for the day!
MAINSTAGE
1PM - SALUTE TO AMERICA
A special salute to our country celebrating 250 years featuring the BRANDYWINE COLONIALS FIFE & DRUM CORP.
MAINSTAGE
1:30PM - OPEN MIC HOSTED BY PHIL STAHL
Grab your instrument and enjoy the artists at our Open Mic Stage.
FIRE/OPEN MIC STAGE
1:15PM - 5:00PM
THE FIDDLE COMPETITION
AGES 12 and UNDER
AGES 13- 18
AGES 18 and OVER
With Special Music breaks provided by Meadowood Music Students
MAINSTAGE
5:15PM - FIDDLEMANIA, AWARDS AND SWING LOW FINALE
MAINSTAGE
VISIT FIDDLER CRAFT ROW
Take a stroll through Fiddler Craft Row and discover one of the most popular parts of the Berks Fiddle Fest! Featuring more than 40 artisans, crafters, community organizations, and specialty vendors, Fiddler Craft Row offers something for everyone to enjoy throughout the day. Browse handcrafted jewelry, woodworking, folk art, specialty foods, and unique gifts while meeting the talented people who create them. Local nonprofits and community groups will also be on hand to share information about their programs and services.
Whether you're looking for the perfect handmade treasure, supporting local artists, or simply enjoying the festival atmosphere, Fiddler Craft Row is a wonderful place to explore between concerts, workshops, and jam sessions. It's a celebration of creativity, community, and the rich traditions that make Berks County such a special place.
Come shop, discover, and connect with the people who help make the Berks Fiddle Fest a true community celebration!
FOOD AND DRINKS AVAILABLE THROUGHOUT THE DAY
There will be plenty of food and beverages available for purchase throughout the festival. Friends of Fleetwood Parks will be serving burgers, hot dogs, homemade vegetarian vegetable soup, drinks, and other festival favorites from their concession stand along with Freddy Bears Smokin' Hot BBQ & Pop's Malt Shop. Additional food vendors and community organizations will also be on-site offering a variety of delicious options, ensuring there is something for everyone to enjoy throughout the day.
GUITAR RAFFLE
GRAB YOUR CHANCE TO WIN A GUITAR!
PURCHASE TICKETS FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN A NEW ORANGEWOOD GUITAR
Enter now to win one of two Orangewood Parlor size guitars. The first ticket draw gets their choice of guitar. Second ticket drawn gets the other guitar.
TICKETS: 1 ticket for $5.00 or 5 tickets for $20.00.
Winners will be picked at the end of the Berks Fiddle Fest on September 20th in the Fleetwood Park. You need not be present to win. Guitars donated by Richmond Street Music Lessons, Fleetwood.
TICKETS AVAILABLE AT ALL FLEETWOOD BANK LOCATIONS starting August 1, AT THE BERKS FIDDLE FEST OR YOU CAN PURCHASE TICKETS ON-LINE AT THE ACTION BUTTON BELOW.
On-Line tickets must be purchased by September 13, 2026.
FESTIVAL INFORMATION
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ON THE FESTIVAL
FLEETWOOD PARK
The Berks Fiddle Fest takes place at Fleetwood Park, located on 333 W. Main Street in Fleetwood, Pennsylvania. The park features 33 acres of beautiful green space, mature trees, and a mainstage amphitheater that serves as the centerpiece of the festival. Clean, modern restroom facilities are conveniently located within the park and are fully handicapped accessible, helping ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all festival attendees.
FESTIVAL HOURS
The festival runs from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM and features a full day of live concerts, workshops, jam sessions, demonstrations, and competitions. Be sure to check the event schedule for a complete lineup of activities.
PARKING
Free parking is available in the designated parking area at Fleetwood Park. The Fleetwood Volunteer Fire Company assists with parking and traffic management during the event. Additional street parking is available nearby, and a pedestrian bridge located at the corner of Arch Street and Maple Street provides convenient access to the festival grounds. Additional parking is in the borough municipal building parking lot (next to the pool) at the end of W. Vine St.
ADMISSION
Admission to the Berks Fiddle Fest is free for everyone. As a community event, the festival is made possible through the support of sponsors, volunteers, and donations. Friends of Fleetwood Parks gratefully accepts donations during the festival to help offset production costs and ensure the event remains free for all attendees.
ADDITIONAL QUESTIONS
For more information about the festival, please contact us at berksfiddlefest@gmail.com
THE HISTORY
BERKS FIDDLE FEST
The Berks Fiddle Fest is one of Pennsylvania’s premier celebrations of Americana, bluegrass, folk, and traditional acoustic music. For more than four decades, the festival has brought together musicians, families, and music lovers to honor the rich heritage of fiddling and old-time music while creating new traditions for future generations.
The festival traces its roots to the early 1980s when it began as the Lyons Fiddle Fest at Lyons Community Park. Held annually on the third Sunday in September, the grassroots event grew from a small gathering of musicians into a beloved regional tradition that attracted thousands of visitors each year. Following a two-year interruption caused by severe flooding at the park and the COVID-19 pandemic, the festival returned in 2021 with a new name—the Berks Fiddle Fest—and a new home at Bear Creek Mountain Resort. The move allowed the event to continue growing while welcoming a broader audience of musicians and festivalgoers.
In 2024, the festival found its current home at Fleetwood Community Park, where expanded grounds, a permanent amphitheater stage, and ample space for jam sessions provide the perfect setting for a day of music, community, and tradition.
At the heart of the Berks Fiddle Fest is its renowned fiddle competition, featuring divisions for musicians of all ages and skill levels. Over the years, the competition has helped launch the careers of talented young performers, with past champions going on to perform at the Grand Ole Opry and share stages with nationally recognized artists. Beyond the competition, the festival is famous for its spontaneous jam sessions, where fiddlers, guitarists, mandolin players, banjo pickers, and other musicians gather in circles throughout the park to play together and celebrate the spirit of traditional music.
Today, the Berks Fiddle Fest, under the direction of Chairman Larry Ross, features live concerts, workshops, competitions, craft vendors, food stands, and family-friendly activities, all while preserving the welcoming atmosphere that has defined the festival since its beginnings. More than just a music festival, it is a celebration of community, heritage, and the enduring power of acoustic music to bring people together.