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It’s almost time for Jefferson County’s juiciest tradition. The 74th Annual Monticello Watermelon Festival returns Saturday, May 31 through Saturday, June 14, , with a fresh new lineup of events, updated dates and exciting additions to help celebrate this year’s theme: “In My Watermelon Era” - a tribute to summertime memories and watermelon fun through the decades.
This year’s Watermelon Festival is proudly presented with the support of the festival sponsors: Trulieve, Tajín, All County Property Management and McPherson Construction - whose contributions help make this beloved tradition possible.
Crowning Moments: Watermelon Pageants Take Center Stage May 31
The festival officially kicks off with a full day of sparkle and celebration at the 2025 Watermelon Queen Pageants, sponsored by Bass Electrical Services and Palmer Construction Management, LLC, on Saturday, May 31 at the Jefferson County Schools Auditorium.
The Tiny Miss, Little Miss and Mister, Princess, and Young Miss competitions begin at 10 a.m., showcasing the poise, personality and charm of the youngest contestants. Then at 5 p.m., the spotlight turns to the elegant Teen Miss and Miss Watermelon Pageants, where we’ll crown the young women who will represent our community throughout the year.
Each pageant promises unforgettable moments, heartwarming support from family and friends, and an extra dose of small-town pride. Tickets are on sale now - with reserved seating options available at www.monticellowatermelonfestival.com/2025pageants.
New This Year: Kickoff Block Party and Slice & Savor Cooking Class
The festival week begins with a brand-new Kickoff Block Party on Friday, June 6, in downtown Monticello, sponsored by Monticello Police Department and Kelly & Kelly Properties. The evening kicks off with a Southern BBQ Dinner sponsored by North Florida Abstract & Title and prepared by Leslie and Del Wilkinson at the Monticello Opera House. Dinner tickets went on sale on Thursday, May 22 at www.MonticelloWatermelonFestival.com or get your tickets by calling the Monticello-Jefferson County Chamber of Commerce at (850) 997-5552.
After dinner, head to Mulberry Street for the Festival Awards Presentation, the Ride-On Kids Parade sponsored by Jefferson County Teachers Credit Union, and the wild and wacky Bed Race sponsored by Tallahassee Ford. Then enjoy live music from Southern Brothers, delicious food trucks and a festive community atmosphere that sets the tone for an unforgettable week.
Also debuting this year is Slice & Savor, a watermelon-themed cooking experience led by celebrity chef Jessica McMullen. Hosted on Monday, June 9 at the Chamber, this event features a fresh summer menu including Watermelon Agua Fresca; Watermelon Gazpacho with Feta: Grilled Chicken with Tangy Watermelon Barbecue Sauce (on rice); and Watermelon Mousse, live cooking demonstration, and recipe cards to take home. A portion of each ticket supports local youth summer enrichment programs. Tickets are available at www.MonticelloWatermelonFestival.com or by calling the Chamber.
Don’t Miss the Watermelon Run
The Monticello Kiwanis Club Watermelon Run and Walk takes place on Saturday, June 7. Runners and walkers of all ages are invited to participate in this fun, scenic 5K through historic Monticello.
Street Dance Returns — With a New Name and a Fresh Look
The party continues on Friday, June 13 with the Melon Jam (formerly known as the Street Dance), sponsored by Capital City Bank and Capital City Home Loans. Held in the Watermelon Oasis, sponsored by Caminez & Yeary, P.A., this year’s event features a major layout upgrade — with the big festival tent moved to the center of the food field for better views, more space and a lively new atmosphere.
Vendor Village opens earlier that afternoon at 3 p.m., with local artisans, food trucks, cold drinks, festival merchandise and the Beer Garden sponsored by MLD Architects and Tri-Eagle Sales. The Highway 59 Band will take the stage that evening, turning the field into a full-blown community celebration.
Experience the Magic of Frozen
Presented by Monticello Acting & Dance Company, Frozen: The Musical takes the stage at the Monticello Opera House on Friday, June 13 at 7 p.m., with encore performances on Saturday, June 14 at 11:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. This heartwarming production is sure to be a magical experience for the whole family.
Super Saturday: June 14
The festival’s biggest day is packed with classic favorites and community fun:
- The Watermelon Parade, sponsored by CareerSource Capital Region, begins at 10 a.m. and features floats, marching bands, and entries celebrating this year’s theme, “In My Watermelon Era.”
- Vendor Village, the Antique Car Show, Kids Play Zone, Watermelon Oasis and the Beer Garden will all be open throughout the day.
- Frozen: The Musical returns for two performances at 11:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. at the Monticello Opera House.
“Whether you’ve been coming to the Watermelon Festival for decades or it’s your first time, we want you to step into your Watermelon Era — full of flavor fun and unforgettable memories,” said Festival Co-Director Katie Truelove. “With exciting new events and a fresh twist on the traditions we all love, 2025 is going to be one for the scrapbook.”
For tickets, full schedule and event registration, visit: www.MonticelloWatermelonFestival.com.