The 39th annual Winterville Watermelon Festival is coming up August 22-25th, 2024 and it's going to be bigger and better than ever! This year's festival will feature all of your favorite events, including the Watermelon Eating Contest, the Watermelon Parade, and the Saturday night Watermelon Jam concert featuring Grand Funk Railroad. There will also be carnival rides and games, flea markets and commercial vendors, and a variety of food vendors offering watermelon treats alongside the classic festival snacks!
On Friday, start off at the Opening Ceremony by the Winterville Chamber of Commerce and Town Council at 6:00pm. Following the Opening Ceremony, there will be carnival rides and live music from the Ashley LaRue Band at 6:30pm, and The Earth Wind & Fire Tribute Band at 8:30pm.
On Saturday, expect an action-packed day! Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and drink lots of water! The festival will open with a craft show at 8am, with the Watermelon Festival Veterans Appreciation Parade following at 10:00am. Save room for lunch and enter the Watermelon Eating Competition at 12:00pm at the Amphitheatre Stage! At 5:00pm, head over to the Watermelon Jam to listen to some awesome music to close out the day!
On Sunday enjoy your last chance to enjoy the carnival with wristband day, and make sure to stick around for live music from Brian Burke at 1:00pm!
How to make the most of your trip to the Winterville Watermelon Festival:
Plan to eat lots of watermelon!
Bring sunscreen, as it can get hot during the day.
Drink lots of water to stay hydrated.
Be prepared for a lot of fun!
If you have any more questions, check out the Watermelon Festival FAQ.
The Winterville Watermelon Festival is a great event for the whole family. It's a fun and festive way to celebrate the end of summer and the delicious homegrown watermelon that Winterville, North Carolina is known for.
Watermelon Jam Info!
The Watermelon Jam will be Saturday night from 5:00pm - 11:00pm! Seating is first come, first serve. Lawn chairs are allowed in general admission, but there is only standing room in the pit! Make sure to check out the beer garden while inside!
Gates open at 5:00pm
Bryan Meyer at 6:00pm
Maggie Baugh at 7:30pm
Grand Funk Railroad at 9:00pm
Purchase early bird tickets here, prices will be higher at the gate.
Carnival Info!
Insider Tip: If you want to beat the crowds, the carnival will be open starting Thursday, August 22nd, from 6:00pm-10:00pm, before the official festival opening on Friday!
Thursday: 6:00pm - 10:00pm
Friday: 6:00pm - 11:00pm
Saturday: 11:00am - 11:00pm
Sundy: 1:00pm - 6:00pm
Wristbands are available for purchase for $25 on Thursday and Sunday.
