Murfreesboro, TN - Time reshapes tradition—and in Middle Tennessee, no event exemplifies that metamorphosis quite like Uncle Dave Macon Days. Once a modest banjo contest born from the local Homegrown Days celebration, it’s now transformed into a vibrant music and arts experience, with a soul rooted firmly in Rutherford County’s heritage.

The Journey Began in 1978

On July 8, 1978, the festival kicked off with the Uncle Dave Macon Banjo Pickin’ Contest on the Murfreesboro town square. It was envisioned by pharmacist Jesse Messick, who collaborated with Ramsey Macon, the grandson of the legendary banjoist, to honor Uncle Dave’s legacy on the very courthouse steps where he once performed.

Growing Crowds, Growing Legacy

The event’s popularity soared, and by 1986, Congress had officially recognized it as the National Championships site for Old-Time Banjo, Clogging, and Buck Dancing. The move to Cannonsburgh Village in 1989 gave the growing audience room to celebrate—and the festival thrived there for decades.

A New Era Begins
After a pandemic-induced pause, the festival entered a new chapter. Its current home at Hop Springs—just across from where Uncle Dave once lived and operated his mule-drawn freight service—feels like more than coincidence. Nearby sits Coleman Cemetery, where Uncle Dave is buried beneath a headstone that reads: "Known to his friends as 'Uncle Dave Macon,' the world's most outstanding banjoist".

The Man Behind the Music

Uncle Dave wasn’t just a local star—he was a national pioneer. Dubbed the “Dixie Dewdrop,” he recorded more than 170 songs between 1924 and 1938, blending old-time string music with vaudeville flair. His recordings helped legitimize country music as a commercial force, and his influence continues to ripple through generations of artists.

Preserving the Sound of America

Led by longtime historian Gloria Christy, the newly rebranded Roots Rendezvous Festival—presented by Uncle Dave Macon Days—continues its mission to preserve and perpetuate America’s roots music. Set for September 19–21, 2025, the festival will once again fill Hop Springs with music, storytelling, and community.

Hammer Down for Habitat Joins the Fun

Adding to the festivities is Rutherford County Habitat for Humanity’s 17th annual Hammer Down for Habitat Poker Run on Saturday, September 20, 2025. With a 100+ mile route through scenic Middle Tennessee, the run welcomes cars and motorcycles, launching from the Habitat ReStore at 8:00AM and ending with the celebration at Hop Springs.

• Poker Run Fee: $35 driver, $15 per passenger
• Festival Admission: Free and open to all

Executive Director Terri Shultz emphasized the partnership’s purpose, “We’re teaming up with Uncle Dave Macon Days for Roots Rendezvous—expect music, art, dance, and loads of family fun. Even if you don’t ride in the poker run, come enjoy the day with us at Hop Springs.”

Put Sept. 19-21, 2025 On Your Calendar

Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind celebration that pays tribute to a Tennessee legend while embracing the energy of today. Roots Rendezvous 2025 is more than a festival—it’s the heartbeat of a heritage still resonating across generations. Click HERE to learn more.