Wednesday, June 24, 2026 – Hope, Arkansas – Competitors from across the region are invited to test their strength at the inaugural Melon Strong Arm Arm Wrestling Tournament, taking place on Saturday, August 8, 2026, during the 50th Annual Hope Watermelon Festival. The tournament will begin at 1:00 p.m. on the Farmers Bank & Trust Stage at Hope Fair Park.
Participants may weigh in on Friday, August 7, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., or on Saturday, August 8, from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. A five-pound clothing allowance will be permitted.
Competition divisions include:
Men’s Open – Right & Left Hand
154 lbs.
176 lbs.
198 lbs.
242 lbs.
243+ lbs.
Men’s Amateur – Right & Left Hand
154 lbs.
176 lbs.
198 lbs.
242 lbs.
243+ lbs.
Women’s Open – Right & Left Hand
154 lbs.
155+ lbs.
The entry fee is $25 per arm, per division. Cash payouts will be awarded to first-place finishers in the Men’s Open classes only, and custom awards will be presented to 1st through 3rd place in all divisions.
“We are excited to add Melon Strong Arm to our Golden Jubilee celebration and showcase another fun and competitive event during the 50th Annual Hope Watermelon Festival,” said Christy Burns, Executive Director of the Hope-Hempstead County Chamber of Commerce. “Whether you’re an experienced puller or trying arm wrestling for the first time, we invite everyone to come out and compete or cheer on the athletes.”
For more information, contact:
Cameron at (870) 397-3778
Glen at (870) 826-9726
The 50th Annual Hope Watermelon Festival will be held August 6-8, 2026, in Hope, Arkansas. Join us as we celebrate 50 years of sweet tradition with family-friendly events, entertainment, and unforgettable memories.
