Grab a banjo, a lawn chair or both. The 97th Annual Old Fiddler's Picnic returns to Hibernia County Park on Saturday, Aug. 8, offering a full day of free bluegrass, old-time and gospel music in one of Chester County's longest-running community traditions.

The event runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the park, located at 1 Park Road in Coatesville. Gates open at 8:30 a.m. Admission and parking are free. While Hibernia Park sits in Coatesville, the picnic draws families from across Chester County, including West Chester and the Goshens.

Hundreds of musicians and music lovers are expected to fill Fiddler's Cove, the wooded area where informal jam sessions spring up throughout the day, according to myChesco. Guitars, banjos and mandolins are all welcome. Children and beginners are encouraged to watch, listen and talk to performers in what organizers describe as a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere.

Anyone who wants stage time can sign up at the registration table starting at 9 a.m. The House Band opens the main stage at 10 a.m.

The Chester County Department of Parks and Preservation, which organizes the picnic, has packed the grounds with activities beyond the music: food trucks and craft vendors (accepting cards and cash), free wagon rides, yard games, inflatables, face painting and Bubbletopia. Free tours of the historic Hibernia Mansion run at 1 p.m., 2 p.m. and 3 p.m.

Guests should bring lawn chairs and blankets. Tents and canopies are not permitted in Fiddler's Field. Alcohol is prohibited. Leashed pets (six feet or shorter) are welcome.

The picnic traces its roots to roughly 1929 or 1930. The event goes on in light rain, with an official rain date of Sunday, Aug. 9. More details are available at the county's event page.

Coming up

  • Saturday, Aug. 15: Look Around Music & Arts Festival at the Elks Lodge in West Chester (5th year, all-ages, featuring ONYX&HONEY., MCRAD, New Kings of Rhythm)
  • Friday, Aug. 21: Uptown! Knauer Performing Arts Center Pop-Up Beer Garden, 5 p.m., with the Meghan Carey Duo (free, outdoors)
  • Saturday, Aug. 29: Free bird walk at Applebrook Park in East Goshen, 8:30 a.m.