Fiddles, banjos, and other stringed instruments are the thing at this year’s Berkeley Old Time Music Convention.

Dust off your straw boater and wind up your Victrola, because it’s time to jig to the sweet cacophony of that old timey music. The Berkeley Old Time Music Convention brings together the premiere talents in Appalachian gut-plucking, square dancing, string bands, and all brands of good ol’ traditional Americana music. Featured artists include folk balladeer Jim Kweskin, banjo maestro Jerome Paxton, West Virginia string band powerhouse the Modock Rounders, local Bay Area string sensation Crooked Jades, and many more.

The festival features concerts, workshops, string band contest, stuff for kids, and ample opportunity for joining in the jams. The night before the convention kicks off, early visitors can attend a pre-BOTMC Cajun dance at 8 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 17, at Ashkenaz Music & Dance Community Center with music by David Greely, founding fiddler of Steve Riley & the Mamou Playboys, and Eric & Suzy Thompson. Admission $15 at the door.

Wed.-Sun., Sept. 18-22. The convention and most events are free, but certain events require tickets. A three-day pass covering all paid events is $56 in advance or $61 at the door. Music occurs at various locations. BerkeleyOldTimeMusic.org.