The Fair Bluff Watermelon Festival has a deep and rich history. It began in the summer of 1986 around the last weekend in July with two best friends, Monroe Enzor, Sr. and A.J. Worley, yet the roots of it began as early as 1979, when the two men began comparing watermelons that they grew.

The Fair Bluff Watermelon Growers Association (FBWGA)  is comprised of a group of dedicated individuals whose mission is to preserve heritage and cultivate community. Based out of the small town Fair Bluff in rural North Carolina, the group takes pride in their family roots.

The FBWGA hosts the Big Watermelon and Quality Watermelon contests at the annual Fair Bluff Watermelon Festival. In addition to the contest, the  FBWGA Educational Outreach Program promises to inspire, educate and promote leadership and independence in the youth of the community.

Adult Quality Watermelon Contest:

This division is for individuals who are 18 years of age or older. The judges will place the melons according to sugar content and uniform, non-defective appearance typical of your watermelon’s variety.

Youth Quality Watermelon Contest:

This division is for individuals who are under 18 years of age. The judges will place the melons according to sugar content and uniform, non-defective appearance typical of your watermelon’s variety.

Big Watermelon Contest:

This division is for the biggest watermelons you can possibly grow! The melons will be weighed on a scale and placed accordingly. Be sure to hang around the “old guys” and see if you can get any age old secrets out of them on how to grow the biggest melon!

Watermelon Eating Contest:

We know you know this one! The watermelon eating contests will be divided by age group on the day of. Be sure to look for a sign up sheet so we can get your name! When the judge says “GO!” eat your watermelon slice as fast as you can... but No Using Your Hands!

Schedule of Events:

7:30 am - 9:00 am: Watermelon Registration

10:00 am: Big Watermelon Weigh In and Awards Presentation

10:30 am: Youth and Adult Watermelon Eating Contests

11:00 am: Youth and Adult Quality Watermelon Awards Presentation

12:30 pm: Parade

2:30 pm: Fair Bluff Rotary Club Duck Race