2027 National Flat Picking Championships
Early Registration Continues Thru...
Friday, September 10th, 2027 at 5pm!
Eligibility
You may compete in the 2027 Walnut Valley Festival Championships unless:
- You are a billed or paid entertainer or workshop leader at the 2027 Walnut Valley Festival.
- You won 1st Place in that same championship during any of the previous five years (2022-2026).
Previous champions may still compete in other championships they have not won within the last five years.
Example: A recent National Bluegrass Banjo Championship winner cannot enter that contest in 2027, but may enter other championship contests.
Contest Capacity Limits
Limited to 40 contestants
- International Autoharp Championship
- National Mountain Dulcimer Championship
- National Mandolin Championship
- Walnut Valley Old Time Fiddle Championship
- National Hammer Dulcimer Championship
- National Bluegrass Banjo Championship
Limited to 50 contestants
- International Finger Style Guitar Championship
- National Flat Pick Guitar Championship
Selection Process
For limited-entry contests:
- Contestants are accepted in registration order.
- Names are called 30 minutes before the contest begins.
- Only the first contestants present and answering their names (40 or 50 depending on the contest) will compete.
Recording and Livestream Policy
By appearing on an official Walnut Valley Festival stage, you consent to:
- Livestreaming
- Audio recording
- Video recording
- Photography
The Walnut Valley Association may use these recordings and images to promote the festival and championships.
Registration Dates
- Early registration closes: Friday, September 10 at 5:00 PM
- On-site registration opens: Thursday, September 16 at 8:00 AM
- Location: Contest Registration Trailer on the festival grounds
Payment Methods
Accepted on-site:
- Cash
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
Practical takeaway
If you’re entering a limited-field championship, arriving early for the 30-minute pre-contest roll call is critical. Even if you’ve registered, you must be present when your name is called to secure one of the available competition spots.
