As you would expect in the “Watermelon Capital of Alabama,” the annual Franklin County Watermelon Festival in Russellville is a roaring good time with the county’s bumper crop taking center stage. Held over two days in August, the festival attracts more than 20,000 people with its live music, watermelon contests, 5k run, antique car and truck show, tasty foods, arts and crafts vendors, and fun festival rides for all ages. Taking place along Jackson Street in the heart of Russellville Aug. 16-17, the festival exudes old-fashioned, downhome fun for the whole family. Aside from sampling lots of juicy, sweet watermelon, a crowd favorite is the watermelon seed spitting contest with town bragging rights on the line!
Sweet, Juicy Fun For Everyone
Every third weekend in August, Franklin County transforms into a watermelon lover’s paradise with a two-day celebration in Russellville in North Alabama. Voted Best Adult’s and Children’s Events in the Tennessee Valley in a reader’s choice poll conducted by the Franklin County Times for the past four years, the festival attracts thousands from near and far for this carnival like experience taking place along Jackson Avenue, the quaint main street of the town. This loved community event is powered in part by the Franklin County Junior Leaders. These dedicated high school Juniors from across the county cheerfully volunteered throughout the weekend wearing watermelon red t-shirts.
To kick off the festival, the 2024 Watermelon Queen Miss Annie Willis cut the first watermelon of the 43rd Franklin County Watermelon Festival. Watermelon royalty runs in the family—her mother Heather Willis was crowned the Watermelon Queen in 1998.
Winner, Winner [Watermelon] Dinner
The competitive spirit is strong at the Franklin County Watermelon Festival. Crowds line up to partake in and spectate the numerous watermelon-themed contests. From the competitive watermelon seed spitting to the largest weighing melon, best tasting melon, most unusual melon, and even the best-dressed melon, these contests are a beloved tradition that showcase creativity and community spirit.
Live Music Fills The Air
In addition to the contests, live music delighted the crowds from the main stage throughout the weekend. Friday night kicked off with energetic performances by Tremayne and Lover: An Eras Tour Experience, setting the tone for a fun-filled evening. Saturday’s lineup was packed with talent, starting with the nostalgic sounds of Rewind of the Shoals. Austin Bohannon followed with his engaging set, and the day wrapped up with a crowd-pleasing performance by Colin Stough, capping off a memorable weekend of music at the Franklin County Watermelon Festival.
There’s More Than Watermelon
On Saturday of the festival, the annual 5K race in the morning drew runners eager to kick off the day with a healthy start. For car enthusiasts, the truck and car show was a must-see, featuring a dazzling display of vehicles for all to admire. Throughout the weekend, attendees enjoyed sample food from a variety of vendors and a bustling Kids Zone offering loads of fun and entertainment for kids of all ages.
Southern Hosptality Served One Slice At A Time
Of course, the main attraction of the weekend is the abundance of watermelons, ensuring that everyone can enjoy a taste of summer’s sweetest fruit. Whether you’re competing, listening to music, or just strolling through the festival, the Franklin County Watermelon Festival is a lively celebration that captures the essence of Southern hospitality and summertime fun.
Photos by Juergen Beck, Freedom Light Productions
