It’s three A.M. To my left, the sweet, mournful sounds of twin fiddles echo through the air. On my right, a banjo’s dull plunk reminds me I’m alive and breathing. I strum a guitar chord I’ve learned for the first time only moments before. This isn’t Heaven, it’s the annual Appalachian String Band Festival.

“Clifftop,” as it’s known to most, brings together musicians and artisans of all skill levels to provide fun for all ages. Concerts, contests, square dances and impromptu jam sessions fill this five day romp with energy and excitement. There are also daily music workshops and exhibitions to help you to hone your craft.

I highly recommend staying at least one night, and if you do decide to do that, you should have a couple things with you when you arrive:

• An instrument. If you play and NO MATTER your skill level, bring this and you will be a better player by the time you leave, I promise. Also, it doesn’t matter what kind of instrument you play, which is a great thing about Clifftop. In addition to standard old-time instruments there are pump organs, tubas, flutes, harps, bodhrons, and that’s just the tip of the iceberg.
• Comfortable clothing. Do know that if you get there later in the week, you’ll probably end up at the bottom of the hill as it gets incredibly crowded by the weekend. They do provide a shuttle up and down the hill at specific times during the day, but be prepared to walk a lot.
• Your own sleeping arrangements. You really shouldn’t sleep, you’ll miss a lot of music. But if you do want to sleep, you should bring a tent or a car or a sleeping bag to be inside of at night.
• Food and Drink. You could forgo this, given that the Bluegrass Kitchen offers up some great eats while the cafeteria is open, but sometimes your session is going too good to end it for food. This is where your personal stash comes into play. Also, water is a must during the sultry hours of the day.
• Money. Buy something from someone! Most of the vendors and musicians offer up homemade goods and albums that take precious time and labor, SUPPORT THEM!

So, now you want to go, right? The Appalachian String Band Festival runs from July 30th to August 5th at Camp Washington-Carver in Fayette County. The Directions here, the Admission prices here, and the Schedule is here. It’s my favorite time of the year, and soon to be yours too!