The 58th Panhandle Watermelon Festival

Matt Boster

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Posted by: Matt Boster
Date: May 30 2014 3:15 PM

Washington County, FL — On the heels of last year’s record breaking festival attendance, the Panhandle Watermelon Festival has once again lined up a group of performers to ensure this year’s festival will continue to offer thousands a jam packed two day music and family experience like no other locally.

The 58th Panhandle Watermelon Festival proudly welcomes CMA award winner and Grammy nominated country legend, John Anderson, as this year’s Friday night concert headliner. In addition, fans can look forward to country music star, Jeff Bates whose career has included seven chart singles on the Billboard country charts.“Holding to tradition, Panhandle Watermelon Festival consistently spotlights legendary music acts coupled with family oriented activities making this two day festival unlike any other offered in the area,” states Chairman Colby Peel, “Our goal remains to bring the highest quality entertainment to this community while ensuring this event is free to everyone who attends.”

Made possible in large part by presenting sponsors, McDonalds, Community South Credit Union, Tobacco Free Florida, Northwest Florida Community Hospital, and Wilbur Smith Law Firm, visitors can experience this year’s Friday night music acts while kids participate in one of the many kid centered activities located on the festival grounds including a bounce house and slide sponsored by longtime supporter, Community South Credit Union and the traditional watermelon contests hosted by our own Northwest Florida Community Hospital all of which will be conveniently located at Pal’s Park.

Come hungry and feast on fare that goes hand in hand with Friday night Watermelon including hamburgers and hotdogs prepared by the Chipley Fire Department.

Saturday’s events commence early with the annual 5,000 meter Hot Trot Run at the Washington/Holmes Technical Center. At the same time, spectators can head over to the Shrine Club for the traditional Pancake Breakfast.The family favorite Watermelon Parade is scheduled for 10am. Participants will organize at the Chipley High School Football Stadium and continue east on Hwy 90 through downtown to the delight of hundreds of eager faces.

Festivities will begin immediately following the parade at the Ag Center with gospel group Crossroads kicking off another talented lineup of musicians. The time-honored introduction of queens and the watermelon contest and auction, hosted by Auctioneer David Corbin, round out the lunchtime activities. The Fine Arts Show, hosted by the Washington County Arts Council will be on display in the east wing of the Ag Center. This show will feature artwork from local artists as well as noted artists from the Northwest Florida region.

Back by popular demand, Grammy award winning bluegrass group and crowd favorite, Dailey and Vincent, will again cap off Saturday’s musical lineup.

Numerous food and arts and crafts vendors will be scattered throughout the Ag Center grounds and visitors can drop by the Kiwanis table and pick up a complimentary slice of Watermelon (while supplies last).

 

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