Rush Springs Gears Up for the 79th Annual Watermelon Festival On The Porch

Rush Springs is abuzz with excitement as it prepares to host the 79th Annual Watermelon Festival this weekend.

The cherished tradition, which has grown from a modest harvest celebration to a major community event, is set to attract around 30,000 visitors to Jeff Davis Park.

Audrey Heath, the 2024 Watermelon Queen, came on the Arca Continental Coca-Cola Southwest Beverages Porch ahead of the festival to talk about what makes it special.

Heath said the event started as a simple celebration and has turned into something the town is known for.

"It's just a simple celebration of the end of harvest for our little town, and then it just grew over the years," Heath said.

She said highlights include over 100 arts and crafts vendors, live entertainment, a watermelon feed, and Prize Melon Exhibit.

Attendees can purchase watermelon by the slice throughout the day, with a free slice available at 4:00 p.m.

“We have red, yellow, orange, and all sorts of watermelons available,” Heath said.

The festival also serves as a fundraiser for local high school students who run the food booths.

Event Details

1. When: August 10, 2024
2. Where: Jeff Davis Park, Rush Springs
3. Opening Ceremonies: 9:00 a.m.
4. 10-K Race: 7:00 a.m.
5. 5-K Race: 7:15 a.m.
6. Crowning of Watermelon Queen: 12:30 p.m.
7. Free Watermelon Feed: 4:00 p.m.
8. Closing Remarks by the Watermelon Queen: 5:30 p.m.