Labor Day Weekend Free Events

FREE MUSIC THIS WEEKEND:

The Happy Valley Fiddlers Convention is back for its final gathering. The event, known for showcasing of traditional old-time, bluegrass, folk and Appalachian music, is scheduled for Sept. 1 through Sept. 3 at 3590 NC 268 in Happy Valley. This year’s festival includes a lineup of talented musicians; instrument, dance, and band competitions; workshops; storytelling and lots old-fashioned fun. Admission is free. For more information or to register for the Saturday competitions, visit happyvalleyfiddlers.org.

The City of Hickory’s Sails Original Music Series returns tonight with jazz-rock band Mellow Swells performing at 7 p.m. on The Sails Stage in downtown. Prior to the concert on Friday, Lenoir-Rhyne University will host a Paint the Town Red Pep Rally at 6:30 p.m. on Union Square to celebrate LR Athletics and prepare for LR’s football season home opener Saturday. Started in 2012, the City of Hickory’s Sails Original Music Series showcases features free concerts at 7 p.m. every Friday in September.

The Valdese Family Friday Nights Summer Concert series wraps up its season from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. tonight with a free show by New Local. Concessions are available for purchase and proceeds fund various civic groups in Valdese. Concerts are held on Temple Field behind the Old Rock School.