Watermelon Festival
We're bringing the 2026 Watermelon Festival to downtown Vincennes on Friday, August 7th and Saturday, August 8th at Patrick Henry Square. Don't miss two days packed with great food, entertainment, and all things watermelon!
Be sure to follow the official Watermelon Festival Facebook page for live updates, announcements, and event details!
Vendor Applications Now Open!
The Watermelon Fest is home to a variety of vendors - from delicious fair foods and children's toys to unique clothing, handmade goods, and more. We're now accepting vendor applications for this year's festival!
Pageants
About the Pageants
We're thrilled to welcome the Watermelon Pageant as part of the 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
Brought to you by:
Supported by: Orion Renewable Energy Group
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!
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- 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!
Antique Tractor Show: Sponsored by Organ Battery & 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!
About the Festival
Celebrating the huge watermelon industry in Knox County with some summertime fun - the Watermelon Festival is traditionally held on the first full weekend in August. This event boasts with fair food favorites, live music, pageants, and of course, watermelon!
Thank you to our 2026 Sponsors!