Festival of American Music and Craftsmanship at Silver Dollar City 2004

Silver Dollar City’s Festival of American Music and Craftsmanship will be held at the theme park from September 9 through October 30, 2004. From the sound of the blacksmith’s hammer to the beat of a bluegrass banjo, the Festival offers an opportunity to feel, taste, and touch the very best of American tradition.

In addition to Silver Dollar City’s normal complement of craftsmen, over 100 visiting craftsmen and juried artists will be showcased throughout the festival, demonstrating pewter smithing, pottery, weaving, watercolor and bentwood furniture making. New craftsmen for 2004 include a stone mason trained in Italy, a Native American flute maker, a hat felter, and a antique quilt, jacket maker to mention a few.

The festival will feature the artistry of at least 300 visiting musicians performing on 12 stages throughout the park. A brand new fall show, “Can’t Stop Dancing” will be held in the Opera House 5 days per week, September 9 – October 10. It features nearly twenty dancers perform traditional American dances, Latin dances, elegant ballroom styles, and good old Rock’n’ Roll.

On the 200th anniversary of their historic expedition, the adventures of Lewis and Clark will play a prominent part in a portion of this year’s festival. Bass Pro Outdoor World presents “Lewis and Clark’s Musical Journey,” a new musical and visual presentation showcasing the route, experiences and extraordinary discoveries made by the famous explorers. In the Carousel Barn, you’ll see authentic dioramas, taxidermy and primitive campsites, a large scale interactive map with storytellers, and enjoy music performed by the “Discovery String Band” depicting the travels of “Lewis and Clark”. Also included are demonstrations of making a dug-out canoe and an extensive “Lewis and Clark” photo gallery.

Among other events on the Square and new in 2004 will be “Sheep to Shawl” demonstrations, natural dying, homemade gardening tools, goat milking and sheep shearing. Also see an antique mini-tractor parade, with 6 tractors, twice a day and “Ducks on Parade”, as trained ducks take a stroll around the park on cue! 2004 will be the last year for the “Mule Jump” with its exciting finale!