The 77th Annual Rush Springs Watermelon Festival will return on Saturday, August 13.
Easily the biggest day of the year for the “Watermelon Capital of the World,” the town sees its small population of 1,200 expand to greet 20,000 to 40,000 guests at Jeff Davis Park.
So, for those who may be unfamiliar with the festival, here is some of the key information that you need to know.
Festivities begin even before the big day arrives.
On Thursday, August 11, Great Plains Amusements brings the carnival to town. The Rush Springs Rodeo also takes place that night at Rusty Acres Arena, starting at 8:00 p.m.
On Friday, August 12, there is a parade that begins at 5 p.m. on main street. Again, that night, the carnival is available and the second and final rodeo takes place.
Saturday is when everything culminates into the big day that we all look forward to each year.
The Watermelon Festival kicks off very early in the morning, 7 a.m., to be exact, with the 13th Annual Watermelon Run. The 10k begins first, with the 5k following at 7:30 a.m.
During the day, you can expect to find the carnival, Tiny Tot contest, Watermelon Queen coronation, live music, a car show, seed spitting contest, prize melon auction, food, beverages, crafts, and over a hundred vendors selling anything you could possibly imagine.
At 4 p.m. is when the free watermelon feed takes place, a favorite portion of the festival for local residents and visitors alike.
Visitors should also know that free parking is available all over town, with shuttle buses going back and forth on their routes all day long.
If you have never been before, the Rush Springs Watermelon Festival can be a great opportunity to have a fun experience with family and friends.
Rush Springs Gazette 
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