Contests

Poetry Slam

On fertile borders, near the stream,
Now gaze with pleasure and delight;
See loaded vines with melons teem–
‘Tis paradise to human sight.
– George Moses Horton, “On Summer”

We are proud to dedicate the poetry contest to George Moses Horton, Chatham County’s historic poet laureate, who lived from 1797-1883. Horton was a black man born into slavery. He sold love poems to college students at a farmers market in Chapel Hill. Learn more about George Moses Horton.

Congratulations to Matthew Kornberg, 1st place winner from Fall 2007!

Speak out on stage and share your talent to win ribbons, cash prizes, festival merchandise, and free tickets to future festivals!

  • 1st place: $100 and a chance to speak your truth on the Meadow Stage
  • 2nd Place: $75
  • 3rd place: $50
  • 4th place: $25
  • 5th place: festival t-shirt and travel mug full of coffee/tea

Free passes to the next Shakori Hills GrassRoots Festival will also be awarded for:

  • Most original poem
  • Best poem that celebrates peace
  • Best poem that celebrates another poet
  • Best poet who got robbed by the judges

Be brave!­ Speak out! Share your poetry in our Poetry Contest!

Old Time, Bluegrass Contest

Fiddle, Banjo, Guitar, Mandolin! The instrument contest is a fun and growing part of the festival, showcasing the great talent and originality of Shakori Hills folks. Come compete to win your 15 minutes of fame, fiddler’s convention style!

  • Acoustic instruments only
  • Sign-ups start half an hour before the contests behind the Grove Stage
  • All places receive ribbons! 1st place $50, 2nd place $25, 3rd place Festival t-shirt.

Grassroots Band Contest

Come play a song or two, all instruments welcome! Register under band name half hour before contest begins. 1st place gets $100 and the chance to perform Sunday, 2nd place receives free tickets to the Spring Festival, 3rd place wins festival t-shirts for band members.