Each year in August, the Watermelon Capital of Alabama gears up for al two-day celebration centered on summertime’s favorite sweet, juicy treat. Held in Russellville, Ala., the Watermelon Festival offers arts and crafts, a variety of watermelon contests, car and truck show, tractor show, food vendors, children’s activities, games, and musical entertainment, along with free samples of watermelon.
Contests centered on watermelons are a highlight each year and include watermelon seed spitting, the largest melon, best tasting melon, and most unusual and best-dressed melons. Over 100 vehicles are expected for the Car and Truck Show, and additional activities held in conjunction with the Watermelon Festival consist of a 5K run and 1-mile fun run, Kiwanis 65- and 35-mile bike ride, WGOL’s Northwest Alabama Country Showdown, S.P.A.N. Kruzin’ for Kids Motorcycle Ride, a barbeque cook-off sponsored by Pilgrim’s Pride, character guests to entertain the children, a beauty pageant and the Extension Office contests.
All activities take place along Main Street (Jackson Avenue). Hours are 6 to 10:30 p.m. on Friday and 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturday.
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