Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

MURFREESBORO – It’s a local summertime tradition that’s rooted within the fertile soil of the Chowan River basin.

The 37th annual North Carolina Watermelon Festival will be held in Historic Murfreesboro on Wednesday, Aug. 3 through Saturday, Aug. 6.

This festive, four-day event features something for all ages. Along with the traditional huge agricultural parade, there will be fireworks, watermelon eating and seed spit contests, Little Princess Contest, Little Mr. and Miss Farmer Contest, a food fair, craft show, 5K race, nightly plate dinners, and amusement rides.

If you are hankering for a cool, delicious slice of watermelon, they will be available for free throughout the festival.

“The Watermelon Festival is something that our local citizens and those across the region look forward to every year,” said event co-chair Kay Thomas. “It’s a time for life-long friends to reconnect and for new friendships to be made. It’s a fun time for all ages to get together.”

In addition to the traditional features, the Watermelon Festival Committee announces the following bands:

Wednesday, Aug 3 – The Band of Oz (7 pm), Jay Jenkins, WDLZ-FM, as the emcee;

Thursday, Aug. 4 – Martin Terry Band (5:30 pm), Scott Parker as the emcee; Skosh (7:15 pm); and New Band on the Block (8:15 pm);

Friday, Aug. 5 – TBA (5 pm); Smokin’ Hot, featuring Gary Lowder (7 pm); and

Saturday, Aug. 6 – Vintage Cross: Church at the Crossroads (3 pm); Laura Davis (4:30 pm); Pizazz, featuring Kent Zimermann (7 pm).

The Festival Committee also announces a new provider this year for the Midway. Michael’s Amusements (michaelsamusementsinc.com) from Fayetteville will provide an expanded midway filled with amazing rides. They promise to “light up” the Town.

A Car Show will take place following Saturday’s parade with antique cars, hot rods, motorcycles, and trucks.

“We are pleased to have many new features this year and an exciting new Midway. We are proud that this is our 37th year of hosting the event,” Mitchell said.

For information regarding craft and food vendor applications, go to www.ncwatermelonfest.com or call 252-398-7695.