Join us in Vincennes, IN for a juicy celebration of Knox County's thriving watermelon industry. The 2025 Watermelon Festival returns Friday and Saturday. Featuring two full days of summertime fun, including delicious fair food, live music, arts and crafts vendors, and more.

Pageants:
We're thrilled to welcome back the Watermelon Pageant as part of this year's festival. The pageant will feature three age categories:
Baby/Toddler: Ages 0-4 years
Tiny/Teen: Ages 5-15 years
Queen Pageant: Ages 16-18 years

Pageant Details: 
Entry Fee: $30 per child - includes a commemorative t-shirt (distributed during Saturday check-in).
There will be an opportunity to attend a rehearsal for all Tiny/Teen and Queen contestants on Wednesday, July 30th at 6 PM at Patrick Henry Square (weather permitting).
 
Pageant Schedule: 
Baby/Toddler Pageant: 
Begins at 10:00 AM
Festival Stage (Check-in to the left of the stage; 15-20 minutes early)
Tiny/Teen and Queen Pageants:
Begin at 3:00 PM
Festival Stage (Check-in to left of the stage; arrive 15-20 minutes early)

Antique Tractor Show: Sponsored by Organ Battery and Electric Co.
Bring out the whole family for a day full of fun at the Knox County Watermelon Festival, and don't miss the Antique Tractor Show - Free to participate in and open to ALL tractor enthusiasts.

Tractor Participant Info:
Unloading Location: Main Street between 1st and 2nd Street
Tractors must be in place by 10:00 AM ET
Register: Call the Knox County Chamber of Commerce Office
(812) 882-6440
Trailer Parking: Rendezvous Grounds, 301 Willow Street, Vincennes, IN)
If your tractor is drivable, please plan to drive it from the Rendezvous Grounds to the show site

Saturday:

5K Color Run and Walk
Lace up your running shoes and join us for the Watermelon Festival 5K Color Run/Walk - a fun, family-friendly event welcoming runners and walkers of all ages and experience levels.
Whether you're chasing a personal best or enjoying a casual morning stroll with friends, this 5K is the perfect blend of fitness, fun, and community spirit.

The Route:
Take in the beauty of historic downtown Vincennes as you make your way through scenic streets, past charming landmarks, and finish in the heart of the Watermelon Festival on Main Street. It’s a refreshing and picturesque way to start your festival day.
Take a look at the updated race route, and additional race directions to your right.

Registration Details:
Cost: $30
Start Time: 8:00 AM ET, Saturday, August 2nd
Location: Patrick Henry Square, Vincennes IN
Start at the Vincennes Riverwalk, and end on the Vincennes Riverwalk Trailhead.
Pre-registration is now open, but day-of registration is also available.
Please note: T-shirts and finisher medals are not guaranteed for day-of registrants

Event Highlights:
Best Dressed Costume Contest - Get creative with your watermelon-themed outfits or gather your group for a fun costume twist.
Finish Line Festivities, Sponsored by Sarah's Family Footwear - Celebrate your accomplishments with refreshments, awards, and juicy slices of watermelon.
Festival Activities - Stick around after the race for a full day of Watermelon Festival Fun.

Click Here For Registration Information