Welcome to an article exploring some of the most popular Watermelon Festivals in Texas! If you’re a fan of juicy, sweet watermelons, then you’ll definitely want to check out some of the festivals listed in this article. From summertime celebrations to festivals that focus on watermelon-centric eats, there’s something for everyone.
We list the festivals by region, and give you an overview of the activities and sights that each festival has to offer. If you’re interested in picking your own watermelon, we’ve also highlighted a few festivals that offer that option. Whether it’s for the family, for a date, or just solo adventure, these festivals have something special for everyone to enjoy. So come one, come all, and join in the watermelon festivities!
Festival Summary
Luling Watermelon Thump is held every June, usually on the last full weekend, drawing large crowds of visitors from all over Texas and beyond. This year, the 70th annual event will take place from June 22nd to June 25th, 2023.
The event will feature a range of activities and food for the whole family to enjoy. Live music acts held at the Main Stage will include performances by Flatland Cavalry, La Fiera de Ojinaga, Jon Wolfe and Nicole Padilla. There will also be a carnival and car show. Guests can participate in melon eating contests and seed spitting competitions, as well as enjoy a wide variety of food booths, vendor market and a giant parade.
Tickets are available for purchase, with VIP packages available. Children 12 and under get free admission. The event attracts thousands of visitors each year, making it one of the most popular annual events in Luling and the surrounding areas.
History of this event
The Watermelon Thump, with its catchy name and enticing allure, began in 1954 when Luling Elementary School principal, Hermon Allen, proposed an event to celebrate local watermelon growers. Little did he know, his idea would evolve into a cherished tradition, attracting thousands of visitors annually. The event was named “Watermelon Thump” after a contest won by Luling High School student, Carol Ferguson.
The festival boasts a variety of events, including parades, contests, and entertainment. It has gained recognition by sending champion melons to celebrities and featuring seed-spitting champions on popular TV shows. In 1989, a Guinness World Record was set for the longest watermelon seed-spit at 65 feet, 4 inches, later broken by a local man with a 68 feet, 9 1/8 inches spit.
As the Thump marches on, its legacy stands as a testament to the power of community and the enduring appeal of a fun, flavorful, and slightly quirky celebration held in the heart of Luling, Texas.
The Luling Watermelon Thump is an annual event that has been held in the town of Luling, Texas since 1954. Organized by the Luling Chamber of Commerce, the festivities are held on the last full weekend in June and feature live music, carnival rides, a classic car show, and a variety of contests including watermelon eating and seed spitting.
Discovering the Basics: A Comprehensive Guide for Beginners
The whole festival is lasting from Jun 22nd to Jun 25th 2023, ticket is only required to attend the Luling Watermelon Thump from June 23th (Friday) after 5pm and June 24th (Saturday) after 2pm at $5.
A separate ticket is required to enjoy live music happening on Friday and Saturday- Pre-sale tickets are available at discounted prices of $30 (you can save $5!) until April 30th and include entry to the festival. Children aged 12 and under can enjoy free admission. You can also purchase the VIP package at $200 to get access to the VIP experience which includes side stage viewing, private bar with drink tickets and private restrooms. Guests that purchase tickets are also eligible for the carnival which features rides for all ages, fun games, and refreshments. The car show, melon eating and seed spitting competitions and the auction are free for all guests.
The opening timing for the festival is as below:
– 5pm – 12am on June 22th (Thursday) and June 23th (Friday)
– 10am – 1am on June 24th (Saturday)
– 10am – 6pm on June 25th (Sunday)
Best Time to Visit
If you’re eager to maximize your Watermelon Thump experience, plan your visit carefully. For free admission and live music, Thursday and Sunday are your best bets, with Sunday offering the added bonus of free live performances. Music enthusiasts won’t want to miss the lineup featuring Nicole Padilla, La Fiera de Ojinaga, Abigail Taylor, Emily Nenni, Jon Wolfe, and Flatland Cavalry on Friday and Saturday.
For those who love a festive procession, the Thump Parade on Saturday morning is a must-see event. With so much to enjoy at the Watermelon Thump in Luling, Texas, there’s truly something for everyone!
Live Music, Contest and Activities
The Watermelon Thump offers a four-day celebration filled with exceptional music, family-friendly activities, and more. Kicking off on June 22nd, visitors can attend the Champion Melon Judging and Queen Coronation, marking the beginning of a memorable event.
On June 23rd, enjoy musical performances by Nicole Padilla and La Fiera de Ojinaga, followed by Abigail Taylor, Emily Nenni, Jon Wolfe, and Flatland Cavalry on June 24th. Alamo Attractions presents a carnival experience, featuring rides, games, and refreshments for all ages.
Admission is free on June 25th, and guests can explore the classic car show on Davis Street, displaying over 100 entries. Engage in friendly competition during the Melon Eating Contest on June 24th and the Seed Spitting Competitions from June 23rd to 25th. Additional attractions include the Champion Melon Auction, Tribute to Veterans, and Thump Parade on Saturday.
At least you can also experience the excitement of the carnival with Alamo’s “All You Can Ride” Wristbands, priced at $25, for a day full of fun and adventure.
Three Things you should know before you go!
The 70th Watermelon Thump Festival is taking place June 22nd-25th, 2023 in Luling, Texas, starting on Thursday. The four-day event will feature a line-up of live performances, carnival rides, a classic car show, a parade, and family friendly events like watermelon eating and seed spitting competitions.
The main stage performances are ticketed, but ticket prices are discounted if purchased before May 1st. General admission tickets start at $30 for either Friday or Saturday night, or a VIP experience for $200 per person which includes side stage viewing, private bar, four drink tickets, and private restroom access. The grounds are free to enter Thursday and Sunday, and $5 the rest of the days.
More information can be found on their website.