The events at Galax and Clifftop have some competitions, but they are mainly gatherings of large numbers of people who love to play old time music. They get together, play all day and most of the night, and camp out for several days.

WyoWoman, there are Scottish fiddle competitions in various places all summer long. Your friend may have been referring to the Scottish Games at Loon Mt., NC. In the Scottish games, there are competitions in many things, including various instruments, singing, dancing, and traditional Scottish athletics. Lots of people go for fun, watching, jamming, etc., not necessarily competing. If I had money and a car, I might go there myself. I've heard great things about it. The Blue Ridge Mountains are beautiful, although people from your area consider them hills, not mountains.

I hope this helps.