The 48-Year History of Uncle Dave Macon Days: From the Square to Cannonsburgh to Hop Springs

Uncle Dave Macon Days has been a cornerstone celebration of traditional music and dance in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, for nearly five decades. Named after the legendary banjo player and Grand Ole Opry star, Uncle Dave Macon, the festival began 48 years ago on the historic downtown square. Local musicians and enthusiasts gathered to honor old-time music, Appalachian heritage, and the Cumberland River Valley.

As its popularity grew from a one-day banjo pickin’ contest, the festival transitioned to Cannonsburgh Village, a living history museum that provided a charming backdrop for the event’s expansion. Cannonsburgh became synonymous with Uncle Dave Macon Days, hosting thousands of visitors, musicians, and dancers annually. The new location allowed for larger space for craft vendors, and a broader array of competitions and concerts, solidifying the festival’s reputation as a premier destination for traditional arts.

In recent years, Uncle Dave Macon Days relocated to Hop Springs embracing a modern venue that blends the festival’s historic spirit with contemporary amenities. The move to Hop Springs has brought fresh energy, new audiences, and more diverse programming while maintaining the traditions that have defined the event for 48 years. From the square to Cannonsburgh Village and now to Hop Springs, Uncle Dave Macon Days continues to celebrate the enduring legacy of American roots music, welcoming visitors from across the nation to experience its vibrant culture.