The Tar Heel State has some pretty spectacular harvest festivals, and the watermelon harvest season just may be one of our favorites. Who among us can resist a slice of a freshly harvested, plump, dripping with juice, watermelon? That being said, it’s easy to see why the folks in the tiny town of Murfreesboro (population 3,203) go wild for four days each August in celebration of the succulent fruit. Trust us: if you love watermelon, then this is one festival you won’t be able to pass up.

The 2018 NC Watermelon Festival kicks off on Wednesday, August 1, and includes a variety of activities that are fun for the entire family.
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But the community starts preparing early. For weeks in advance, everywhere you look, you'll see signs of anticipation for the upcoming festival.
Facebook/Town of Murfreesboro
In addition to a midway with carnival rides, games and food, there is also an annual parade (Saturday 10:00) in downtown Murfreesboro.
Facebook/Town of Murfreesboro
And when watermelon is the theme, as it is for this festival, you can almost imagine how fun and colorful the floats and other parade entrees are. The watermelon barrel train, filled with local kids, is an annual tradition guaranteed to put a smile on your face.
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Another annual tradition? Comparing who has the biggest melon. Looks like a tie in this case. Give them both a blue ribbon!
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From the Little Miss and Little Mister Farmer contest to...
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the annual 5K run (yes, that's spiderman in that photo)...
NC Watermelon Festival
and the annual seed spitting contest... the North Carolina Watermelon Festival is one that belongs on your calendar so you can get in on the action for a day or two of fun-filled activities.
Facebook/NC Watermelon Festival
Come hungry! From fair fare, to juicy watermelon, there is guaranteed to be plenty to eat!
Facebook/NC Watermelon Festival
The Annual North Carolina Watermelon Festival is a fun, wholesome, family event the entire crew will love.
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The 2018 event takes place August 1 – 4 in Murfreesboro, North Carolina. The main festival entrance is on Sycamore Street, just off of Main Street, behind Centura Bank. Learn more on the official website for the North Carolina Watermelon Festival.

Another fun event, but taking place on the other side of the state, is the limited-time art exhibit by world-renowned glass artist, Dale Chihuly. His is the first-ever art exhibit taking place in the beautiful gardens at the Biltmore Estate in Asheville. Get the scoop in this previous article.

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