The State Farmers Market in Raleigh will host its annual Watermelon Day on Thursday, Aug. 7, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. The event will offer free watermelon slices, live music, face painting, and recipes for visitors to take home. Vendors at the market will have a variety of North Carolina watermelons available for purchase. Attendees will also have the chance to meet Elizabeth Steinlage, the N.C. Watermelon Queen.
“Watermelon Day is always a highlight of the summer,” said Monica Wood, manager of the State Farmers Market. “It’s a great day to bring the community together to enjoy the summer flavors that are grown right here in North Carolina.”
A contest to find the largest watermelon will begin at noon, with $2,000 in prize money awarded through fourth place. Each grower may enter only one melon, and all entries must be grown in North Carolina. Entries are accepted from 11 to 11:30 a.m., and the winning melon will be displayed at the State Farmers Market Restaurant after the contest. The competition is held in partnership with the N.C. Watermelon Association and the N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.
The State Farmers Market operates year-round and features local produce such as fruits, vegetables, meats, cheeses, and specialty foods from area producers as well as seasonal items from nurseries and greenhouses across North Carolina. Shoppers can visit daily between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., with more details about events available on their website or Facebook page.
