This event alongside the Berkeley Saturday Farmers Market is part of the Old Time Music Convention, a five-day celebration of bluegrass, folk, klezmer and similar traditional music that draws devotees from around the world. Saturday's contest pits 20 string bands against each other for $275 in Farmers Market gift certificates. It's free to enter, free to listen, and warmups begin at dawn. Check the website for info on the other festival events.
