Watermelon weigh-off

On Saturday, September 1, the Hope-Hempstead County Chamber of Commerce in cooperation with the Old Washington Farmer’s Market, The Blending Eras EHC Club, and the City of Washington will host an official watermelon weigh-off site for the Great Pumpkin Commonwealth in Washington, Arkansas. The Great Pumpkin Commonwealth provides official venues for growers to weigh several varieties of fruit and vegetables, including watermelons, across the country. They then give prizes for the largest weighed item of its type across the country.

This official weigh off event will be for watermelons ONLY. Prizes totaling $1,000 will be given out for the top three largest watermelons. Farmers of watermelons should begin registering their entries by 9am. Only one official entry will be considered per farmer or team. Preregistration is not required for the event. The official weigh-off will begin around 11am. The event will take place behind the City Hall of Washington, Arkansas across the street from Williams’ Tavern Restaurant of Historic Washington State Park. For more information on the weigh-off contact Josh Williams at 870-703-8256 or at joshuawilliams14@hotmail.com.

In addition to the Watermelon Weigh-Off , the Old Washington Farmer’s Market and the Blending Eras EHC Club are encouraging other area farmers to come and sell any produce they may have and also are encouraging any potential vendors of homemade goods that would like to participate in the event. For more information to register as a vendor contact Shaye Fields 870-826-1572 or at blendingeras@gmail.com.

The events of the day for the general public on September 1 will begin at 9am and conclude around 3pm. Handmade Crafts, produce, and kids games will be part of the day for anyone that would like to come out and enjoy a great Saturday event. Music will also be provided by the local bluegrass band, The Hempstead County Melody Boys.

Washington, Arkansas is located on Hwy 278 West just eight miles north from Exit 30 at Hope on US Interstate 30.