Hope, AR – July 2026 – Get ready to dig in and show off your watermelon-eating skills! The Watermelon Eating Contest is back as part of the 50th Annual Hope Watermelon Festival – Golden Jubilee, and it's open to participants of all ages.

This juicy competition will take place on Saturday, August 8, 2026, at 12:00 PM on the Hope Public Schools Stage at Hope Fair Park.

Participants will compete in three age divisions, with 1st through 3rd place awards presented in each division. One contestant will also earn the title of Grand Champion, awarded to the fastest watermelon eater of the day.

This longtime festival favorite is free to enter and always attracts a lively crowd of spectators. Whether you're competing for the title or cheering on your favorite contestant, it's a fun-filled event you won't want to miss.

For more information about the Watermelon Eating Contest or the 50th Annual Hope Watermelon Festival, contact the Hope-Hempstead County Chamber of Commerce at (870) 777-3640 or email [email protected].

Come hungry, bring your game face, and help us celebrate one of the sweetest traditions of the Golden Jubilee Hope Watermelon Festival!