Contests are open to anyone except those who are performing as a billed or paid entertainer or workshop leader at the 2022 Walnut Valley Festival. Those who have been the First Place Winner within the past five years – specifically the years 2017 through 2021 are not eligible to compete in 2022. However, previous winners may enter and win contests which they have not won within the last five years. For example, a First Place Winner in the National Bluegrass Banjo Championship in the last five years may enter and win any or all of the other championships.

Only 40 contestants may compete in the International Autoharp, the National Mountain Dulcimer, the National Mandolin, the Walnut Valley Old Time Fiddle, the National Hammer Dulcimer, and the National Bluegrass Banjo Championships. This is the first 40 answering when their names are called from the chronological registration lists, one-half hour before the contest begins. 

Only 50 contestants may enter in the International Finger Style Guitar and the National Flat Pick Guitar Championships. This is the first 50 answering when their names are called from the chronological registration lists, one-half hour before the contests begins.

Contestants MUST HAVE A VALID / PURCHASED FESTIVAL TICKET for the day of the contest.