Watermelon Fest set for Aug. 5-6

“People look forward to it, and it is a really great way to appreciate the agriculture of Knox County.”

The Chambered-sponsored festival, set for Aug. 5-6 on Patrick Henry Square, is considered to be one of the most-attended events in Vincennes, with estimates of 2,000 people — or more — often making the trip.

Mouzin Farms of Knox County will bring plenty of free watermelon to cut up and hand out, and the Southwest Purdue Ag Center, too, will have on hand different varieties for people to try.

Plenty of fair-style food will be available, including barbecue, ice cream, shaved ice, corn dogs, lemonade shake-ups and funnel cakes. And for the shoppers, vendors will be set up with their wares, things like pottery, jewelry, antiques, art, souvenirs and festival T-shirts.

The Chamber also this year will once again partner with the First City Music Festival to provide a free concert.

Concert-goers should bring blankets or a chair to relax while listing to live music, which starts at 6 p.m. on Aug. 5. To accompany the concert, nearby Vincennes Brewing Company will host a beer garden.

The Watermelon Eating Contest will take place at 7 p.m.

Saturday events commence at 8 a.m. with the Watermelon Festival 5K Run/Walk. Awards will be given to the top overall male and female winners and to the participant with the best watermelon-themed race attire.

Something new this year will be an antique tractor show on Aug. 6.

Neal said it was the Chamber’s desire to show another aspect of agriculture in Knox County, and the tractors will illustrate how long farming has been an integral part. Anyone is welcome, she said, to bring their tractor and set it up by 9 a.m. around Patrick Henry Square.

Trailer parking will be available at the nearby Vincennes Rendezvous grounds.

Then at 10 a.m. on Aug. 6 will be the opening of the Kid Fun Zone, with balloon twisting, sidewalk chalk art designs, face painting and inflatables.

Also at 10 a.m., the infant and toddler pageant will get underway on the main stage. Categories range from newborn to 4 years old for both boys and girls.

And any girls between the ages of five and 18 are eligible to compete for the titles of Tiny, Little Miss, Junior, Pre-Teen and Teen Watermelon Queen.

For more information, contact the Chamber at 812-882-6440, stop by the office at 702 Main St. or visit its website at www.knoxcountychamber.com/watermelon-festival/.