MOOREFIELD, WV — McCoy’s Grand Theatre & Museum will celebrate Hardy County Heritage Weekend, September 25–26, with a weekend of music, history and film honoring the rich cultural traditions of Hardy County and Appalachia.
From an old-time fiddle and banjo competition to behind-the-scenes tours of the historic theatre and a special documentary film screening, McCoy’s Grand will offer something for everyone throughout the weekend.
FIDDLE FEST
Friday, September 25 at 7:00 p.m.
Adults: $15; Students: $10
Heritage Weekend begins Friday evening with Fiddle Fest, McCoy’s Grand’s Old-Time Fiddle & Banjo Competition. Musicians of all ages are invited to showcase their talents by performing traditional old-time tunes celebrating the artistry, skill and timeless traditions of mountain music. Whether a seasoned competitor or stepping onto the contest stage for the first time, musicians will have the opportunity to share their music, help preserve an important cultural legacy and compete for awards before an enthusiastic audience. Local musical judges will preside over the competition and award over $700 in prize money. Musicians may register in advance or sign up the evening of the event. To sign up, visit mccoysgrand.org. All competitors must report to McCoy’s Grand by 6:00 p.m. and check in at the lobby.
Tickets are available in advance or at the door. Refreshments will be available.
TOUR McCOY’S GRAND
Saturday, September 26 | 10:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m.
FREE
On Saturday, visitors are invited to go behind the scenes and discover the history and transformation of McCoy’s Grand Theatre & Museum. Guided tours of the beautifully restored historic theatre will explore its remarkable journey from a 1928 movie house to one of the region’s community arts centers. Tours will include the 209-seat theatre, backstage areas, McCoy-McMechen Museum, Eunice McCoy Lounge and the new Courtyard Plaza & Gardens. Visitors will hear stories about the theatre’s history, its recovery following the devastating 1985 Moorefield Flood, and the volunteers and supporters who have worked to preserve this Hardy County landmark for future generations. Whether visiting McCoy’s Grand for the first time or returning after enjoying performances there for years, the tours will provide a unique behind-the-scenes look at one of Hardy County’s treasured historic and cultural destinations.
BETWEEN THE STRINGS — FREE MOVIE SHOWING
Saturday, September 26 at 7:00 p.m.
FREE
Heritage Weekend at McCoy’s Grand concludes Saturday evening with a free showing of the feature documentary BETWEEN THE STRINGS. The film captures the heart and soul of the 2025 West Virginia Branch Mountain Bluegrass Festival. More than a concert film, BETWEEN THE STRINGS is an intimate portrait of the musicians, volunteers and community who come together each summer to celebrate the rich traditions of Appalachian bluegrass music.
Filmmakers Billy Keplinger and Robert Isacson take audiences beyond the stage and into the campgrounds, backstage and late-night jam sessions where lifelong friendships are forged and music becomes a shared language. Featuring performances by nationally acclaimed bluegrass artists alongside regional favorites, the film reveals the passion, craftsmanship and enduring spirit that make the four-day festival one of West Virginia’s most authentic musical experiences.
Set against the scenic backdrop of the Branch Mountains, BETWEEN THE STRINGS celebrates heritage, community and the timeless power of music to connect generations. Through memorable performances and candid personal moments, the documentary preserves an important piece of Appalachian culture while inviting audiences to experience the joy found “between the strings.”
Refreshments will be available during the screening.
“Hardy County Heritage Weekend is about celebrating the stories, music and traditions that have shaped our community,” said John Brennskag, president of McCoy’s Grand. “From the musicians taking the stage at Fiddle Fest to the history preserved in our museum and the Appalachian music captured in BETWEEN THE STRINGS, McCoy’s Grand is proud to be a place where our heritage can be shared with longtime residents and visitors alike.”
All events take place at McCoy’s Grand Theatre & Museum, 121 N. Main Street, Moorefield, West Virginia. The theatre is handicapped accessible.
For additional information, advance Fiddle Fest tickets and competition information, visit mccoysgrand.org.
About McCoy’s Grand
McCoy’s Grand is a nonprofit performing arts center serving Hardy County and the surrounding region. The historic venue is home to the McCoy–McMechen Museum, the Eunice D. McCoy Lounge, and the Courtyard Plaza and Gardens. Each year, McCoy’s Grand produces theatrical productions, hosts the Music at McCoy’s Series, presents FiddleFest during Hardy County Heritage Weekend, partners with Missoula Children’s Theatre for an annual youth production, and offers community favorites such as the Veterans Concert and Fall Fest Open House. The organization also awards an annual scholarship to a graduating Hardy County senior and provides ongoing community outreach opportunities.
McCoy’s Grand will proudly celebrate its 100th Anniversary in 2027, continuing its mission to inspire, educate, and entertain for generations to come. For more information and tickets, visit mccoysgrand.org.
McCoy’s Grand Theatre
121 North Main Street
Moorefield, West Virginia
mccoysgrand.org
