Listen and learn

You can choose to put a banjo on your knee or just watch others do it at Saturday’s Banjo and Fiddle Contests. Free workshops on mountain dulcimer, fiddle, and banjo might get you in a competitive mood for the contests starting at noon. Musicians of all ages and levels will compete for cash prizes and trophies. Sept. 11 from noon-6 p.m. (workshops start at 10 a.m.). Free (donations are welcome; pre-registration for contestants is recommended). Boarding House Park, 40 French St., Lowell (rain location is Lowell High School Auditorium). 978-970-5000. www.nps.gov/lowe