The 26th Annual Granville Heritage Day drew crowds this past weekend, featuring the new Uncle Jimmy Thompson National Old Time Fiddlers Competition, one of Middle Tennessee’s largest antique car shows, and tours of historic sites.
The fiddlers competition, a new addition for 2025, welcomed competitors aged 4 to senior adults. Grand Champion Fiddlers in each age category will be inducted into the National Old Time Fiddler Hall of Fame Museum. The overall fiddle-off champion earned a pre-show performance on the Plaza outside Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium, often referred to as the Birthplace of Bluegrass. WSM Radio broadcast live from the event, which included a special appearance by country music star Bill Anderson. Other entertainment featured live bluegrass bands, cloggers, a magician and a ventriloquist.
The festival also hosted one of Middle Tennessee’s largest Antique Car Shows, with 63 entry classes. Trophies were awarded for first, second and third places, along with “Best of Show” (Production and Modified), “Granville Choice Award” and “Furthest Driven Award.” Car drivers received free festival admission. An Antique Tractor Show honored Ralph McKee of Milton, Tenn., for 2025. Awards included “Oldest Tractor,” “Oldest Exhibitor” and “Ugliest Tractor (Must Run).”
Visitors could tour Granville’s historic sites, including the T.B. Sutton General Store, Granville Museum, Decanter Museum and Pioneer Village. Many museums highlighted the “1920s: Decade of Change.”
A Music Pathways Marker was unveiled in honor of Uncle Jimmy Thompson, a Granville native, coinciding with the 100th anniversary of his performance on the Grand Ole Opry. The day also included a Granville Memorial Service at 11 a.m. at Granville United Methodist Church, honoring community members who had passed away.
Festival Director Randall Clemons highlighted the event’s broad appeal, describing it as a celebration of Granville’s music, stories, and history. He noted that the town comes alive with the spirit of the past and the sounds of Appalachia, offering something for everyone, from bluegrass fans and history buffs to those new to the culture. Clemons also pointed out the antique car and tractor show, along with great food and artisan vendors, ensuring enjoyment for all ages.
Attendees browsed food and craft vendors offering traditional country cooking and artisan crafts. Jay Frankenfield demonstrated hand-thrown pottery. Parking proceeds benefited local non-profit organizations.
