Locals came out to visit with the current queens, kings and contestants for the Hope Watermelon Festival Pageant.

Watermelon-themed refreshments were served to attendees; the cutest cupcakes, and cookies, fruit pie along with dips, crackers, sausage balls and even watermelon punch. 

Our very own April Lovette from SWARK.Today held a fun live drawing with the stunning beauty queens and kings, announcing the giveaway of two concert tickets to see the Lead singers of Classic Rock, Jason Scheff and Tommy DeCarlo, at the Watermelon Festival. The giveaway will take place tomorrow morning at 10 AM live on SWARK.Today. You must comment your favorite thing about the festival for a chance to win. 

Director of the Little Mister & Miss Watermelon Pageant, Gigi Bradshaw talked about the pageant and today’s coffee, “I believe this is the 19th year for the pageant, and I’ve been involved for about the last 10 years. This year, we have 28 girls entered, along with a few boys. We’re hosting the coffee this morning to introduce all of the contestants to the community. The pageant will take place Tuesday, August 5th at 6 p.m. at Klipsch Auditorium inside City Hall, and admission is completely free.

"Contestants range in age from newborns to 18 years old.”

The morning was filled with smiles, snapshots, and plenty of hometown pride as community members came together to support this beloved local tradition. With just days to go until the pageant, excitement is building for what promises to be a memorable evening.  Be sure to mark your calendars and come cheer on this year’s contestants as they take the stage and help kick off one of Hope’s sweetest summertime celebrations.