Posted in Mississippi Attractions August 03, 2017 by

This Small Town Mississippi Festival Is Too Charming For Words…And You Don’t Want To Miss It

Mississippi’s summer temperatures and outdoor activities normally don’t mix. However, if there were ever a reason to make an exception, it’s the Watermelon Carnival in Water Valley. The annual event is held over a 2-day period and offers fun for the entire family (in addition to plenty of watermelon, of course). This small town fest is just too charming for words…and you don’t want to miss it. Take a look:

During these uncertain times, please keep safety in mind and consider adding destinations to your bucket list to visit at a later date.
For nearly 50 years, the Watermelon Carnival has been bringing people together for a weekend of music, crafts, great food, and more.
Water Valley Area Chamber of Commerce/Facebook
This year, it will take place August 4th and 5th.
With a name like Water Valley, you expect the town to put on one charming festival…and that’s exactly what you get with the Watermelon Carnival.
Water Valley Area Chamber of Commerce/Facebook
A major event in the southeast, the carnival attracts people from near and far.
The 2-day event includes all sorts of watermelon related activities, such as seed spitting, melon eating, and throwing melons.
Water Valley Area Chamber of Commerce/Facebook
There’s also a "Biggest Melon Contest," allowing local growers to show off their most prized melons.
Water Valley Area Chamber of Commerce/Facebook
And as a way to "beat the heat" ice cold watermelon slices are handed out for FREE.
Water Valley Area Chamber of Commerce/Facebook
Though watermelon is the star of the carnival, it’s not all you’ll find. There's lots of live music…
Water Valley Area Chamber of Commerce/Facebook
…as well as several booths with all sorts of merchandise for sale.
Water Valley Area Chamber of Commerce/Facebook
With inflatables, a rock climbing wall, bungee jumping, and train rides, kids are practically guaranteed to stay entertained.
Water Valley Area Chamber of Commerce/Facebook
And people of all ages will surely enjoy the carnival's most recent addition - the Pet Parade.
Water Valley Area Chamber of Commerce/Facebook
Other activities include: a car show, street dance, race/walk, and FREE trolley rides to downtown shops and galleries.
In addition to activities and entertainment, you’ll find lots of good food. There’s even a BBQ Cooking Contest on the second day of the event.
Water Valley Area Chamber of Commerce/Facebook
Stay until dark and you can enjoy a spectacular fireworks display - a picture perfect ending to the small town carnival.
Water Valley Area Chamber of Commerce/Facebook

Remember, the 48th Annual Watermelon Carnival will be held August 4th – 5th in Water Valley’s City Park. Click here for more information.

Looking for more small town fests to add to your bucket list? Check out “The 12 Best Small-Town Mississippi Festivals You’ve Never Heard Of.“