On the stage of the Hope Fair Park Coliseum, ribbon was cut to open this year's Watermelon Festival at noon today.

In front of several rows of Watermelon Kings, Queens and volunteers, Mayor Don Still said, "You're all welcome. It's a good crowd, and let's cut the ribbon."

At noon sharp, Christy Burns, Chamber of Commerce Executive Director and lead organizer of the event did the honors.

Vendors and food trucks are doing business and the Kidz Zone is fully set up.

See our Watermelon Festival tabloid for more on what will be happening next.