Chiefland Watermelon Festival
Held on the first Saturday in June, the Annual Watermelon Festival is perhaps the biggest event in Chiefland during the year, drawing thousands of visitors from all parts of the state. The one-day event began in 1954, as the City of Chiefland wrapped up the completion of new sidewalks and streets. The Chiefland Civic Club decided there was a definite cause to celebrate! It was summer and the watermelon season was drawing to an end, so farmers donated their last watermelons for the celebration. Today, farmers continue to donate watermelons, which are served ice cold and delicious for all visitors to enjoy. With time, the festival has grown, and now showcases arts and crafts exhibits from around Florida and neighboring states. There are plenty of children's activities, including a watermelon seed-spitting contest! The watermelon parade, auction, weighing-contest, and the Watermelon Queen contest are just some of the festival highlights that draw spectators from all around the area. The tradition has carried on through 50 years, maintained by the Chiefland Women's Club. Hopefully, it will continue on for at least another 50! For more information about the Watermelon Festival or to obtain a vendor or parade application please visit www.chieflandwomansclub.org.