One of the most eagerly-awaited events of Bear on the Square weekend each year is the Live Country Auction. The auction takes place in the large Mainstage Tent in Hancock Park on Friday night, the opening night of the festival.

The items to be auctioned will be available for viewing at 5:30 p.m. with music provided by the Georgia Mudcats, a premier old time music and bluegrass band from North Georgia, starting at 6 p.m.. Then, at 7 p.m., the spirited bidding will begin with professional auctioneer Sam Williamson in charge of proceedings.

Each year, the auction features the work of area folk artist Billy Roper, along with the work of other talented local artists and juried artists taking part in Bear on the Square's Mountain Marketplace. There will also be bidding on gift baskets, services and other products from the local business community.