The Annual Festival, sponsored by Toe River Arts and now in its 33rd year will honor Betty Smith. Betty was born in Rowan County, grew up in Guilford, and now resides in Madison County and is recognized as one of their best-known musicians. She learned her skill on the fiddle, guitar, autoharp, psaltery (similar to the dulcimer) and mountain dulcimer by practicing and playing by ear. Also, a highly respected ballad singer, she has performed widely at festivals and more recently has taken on the role as an award-winning author and performer.