I could try to tell you how cool it is but you just have to see it for yourself! The boys did as any good sons would and began to take on the responsibilities of the farm. "Grew better than I've probably ever seen watermelons grow.". Drew was featured in several local and statewide publications over the years, as well as the 1997 cover of the Ozark Gateway Region tabloid, along with her then 4-year-old son, Jon. Accepted file types: jpg, png, Max. Photo courtesy of Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism. For the town that boasts the sweetest watermelon in the world, the weather is an important factor each season. It should be about enjoyment, about having a good time about being with people," said Phillip Johnson, "I'm proud to be apart of that, you know we need a lot more joy in the . We did everything wrong we possibly could, Gary said. 2023 Ozark Gateway. From July 29-31, hundreds of people will flock to Cave City to attend the festival for the first time in over a year. For Food Vendor Inquiries call Andrea @ 870-283-5301 . As soon as the summer sun beams down on the South, families make their way to lakes and rivers to cool off. 7 - The World's Sweetest Watermelons. Momma Gs If you havent grabbed a bite to eat yet, you dont want to miss out on Momma Gs home cooking. Annual student art exhibition is Feb. 27-March 17 at Lyon College Kresge Gallery, reception is March 2, Works of Lyon College Professor of Art Dustyn Bork featured in two Batesville exhibitions, Jacksonport State Park to host dinner, mock trial based on historic events Trial based on actual 1885 events and trial, Bubble, Bubble, Toil & Trouble: A Soapmaking Workshop Saturday, February 25, 2023, 9:00am . 2, 2019 at 5:14 PM PDT. The couple laughed at the recollection of the memory. With pawn items, overstocks and new merchandise, you never know what you will find. Growing watermelons has run in the family for several decades. The 42nd annual Cave City Watermelon Festival is slated to begin Thursday (July 28) and run through Saturday (July 30). Currently the Johnsons plant 15 acres each year with 1300 watermelon plants per acre. Locals and watermelon farmers all agree the festival has seen a lot of changes over the years. They talked about their deep history of farming melons, the challenges, triumphs and even some humorous tales. New foods, new places, new experiences. Over the years, Drew has helped the organization meet new marketing goals, such as in- and out-of-state marketing, assuring that all 100,000 copies of their magazines are distributed each year. C. S. Lawthorp began promoting the oversized melons to shippers and the local farmers quickly took note. Weve worked, it seems like, even harder than normal to make sure we have a great festival this year Everythings in place and were ready to have a festival. Johnson Brothers was established in 1976. Our watermelon growers work hard all year long to produce "The World's Sweetest" watermelons! In August of 1958, Burnis Brown was the manager of the Cave City Watermelon Growers Association, which consisted of 127 members with 1,000 acres planted in watermelons. Grower Brian Carter can trace that blood back to his great, great grandfather who hauled melons from Sandtown by wagon to sell in Batesville in the early 1900s. If it doesnt have the sticker, its not an official Cave City watermelon. The Watermelon Growers Games begin at 3 p.m. with a free watermelon feast at 4 p.m. Lake Charles State Park Lakeside campsites, swimming, hiking and some of the best crappie fishing in the area draw a lot of people to Lake Charles. watermelon-growers games at 3 p.m., a . Brokers would stop and negotiate deals to purchase loads to sell elsewhere. I decided to carry on the tradition and raised my first solo melon crop the next spring. A cross-section of the Crookneck heirloom watermelon, an indigenous watermelon whose seeds were recovered from an abandoned cave in Arizona. The machine is equipped with a spike in the center that makes a hole in the plastic. But the town began a steady decline when it was bypassed by the railroad in the late 1800s. So, were hitting the road searching for an official Cave City watermelon and checking out some other sites along the way. Held each year since 1980, Charles and Anita Landers spearheaded the one-of-a-kind event for decades. Note the stickers on the melons in the photo. Renees Cafe This down-home country restaurant is where you will find the locals hanging out. It is scheduled for Thursday, Aug. 6, through Saturday, Aug. 8. Phillip said before harvesting, they first thump, pat, roll and then finally cut them off the plant. Julie explained You want that melon to sound hollow. Most activities are at the Cave . She has received several awards, such as the Batesville Rotarian of the Year in 2010 and a three-time Paul Harris Fellow. Thankfully, that changed once we finally shook winter and headed into May. by Cathy Drew | Jul 9, 2021 | Travel Tips. She leaned back on her hoe and looked back at me. Kevin Moore Farms, 870-283-2043.Moore's stand is located on the north end of Cave City. For decades, Cave City has been known nationwide for its claim to fame, the sweetest watermelons. It wasnt always successful, but with each step, they learned and improved or changed their growing methods. CAVE CITY, Ark. "Usually we start setting the first plants somewhere along about the middle of April and that's when we were getting some real cold weather, so we were delayed a little bit in getting the first plants set out," Johnson said. They bring with them lots of experience. By 1958, the association had 127 members with about 1,000 acres planted in watermelons in Sharp and Independence counties. Laman Bros. General Store (Photo from the Gary Perkey collection.). In those days, an average grower planted about 30 acres. The Hunter Brothers are located in Cave City. Were proud of what we do and we try to put the best that we can out there, Woolridge said. The tournament continues to grow each year, allowing the organization to expand its co-op program and helping each county have dedicated promotion. Created with Sketch. J.W. While watermelons are at the center of the celebration, the people and businesses that make the Cave City area one of the greatest places in Arkansas are also celebrated. Garrett Duncan walking a growers' Cave City Watermelon . Johnson suggests you could always make the trip to Sharp County to visit one of the grower's own stands as well. The Johnsons invite the public to enjoy the fruits of their harvest, arriving at their stand this week. It had been known for years that local Indians had used the cave for dwellings. BREAKING: Student arrested for crime involving explosives, Cave City watermelon growers warn against knockoffs, Trip to Mr. Ts pays off for lucky lottery winner, Jonesboro police investigating 2 reported shootings. As a result, they became more innovative in their production process. Marks Fly Shop Anglers that enjoy fly fishing will want to check out Marks fly shop for all the latest gear and custom tied flies. Sadly, their father passed away in June before seeing the first of what is now the 46th harvest of his sons melons and the establishment of Johnson Brothers Watermelons. Also, be sure to grab a piece of carrot cake if its on the menu. Cathy Drew is a lifelong resident of the region that she loves to promote. Drew stays busy at Ozark Gateway as the ad sales manager, magazine editor, day-to-day office operations, trade show representative, and magazine distribution representative, all while ensuring that the region is represented all over Arkansas and southern Missouri. We dug holes, put water to make a sluice in the ground and then put the plant in. The Cave City Watermelon Festival slated for July 29 through 31 is quickly approaching. Watermelon growing is not a new thing in Cave City, however. Published: Jul. It then puts about a cup of water in the hole and Julie and Becky sit on the back of the machine and place the rooted plants in the ground one by one. Over the years, Drew has helped the organization meet new marketing goals, such as in- and out-of-state marketing, assuring that all 100,000 copies of their magazines are distributed each year. As a kid, I raised watermelons with my grandpa, Billy Carter. The Festival will happen at the Cave City Park. . Phillip Johnson and his brother have been farming watermelons over 40 years. Grab a cooler and gas up the tank because we are heading out in search of good eats, unique treasures and scenic vistas. Outfitters include Spring River Oaks, Many Islands Camp and Canoe, and Southfork Resort. Phillip - 870-307-9632Gary - 870-283-2854. With the help of C. P. (Prince) Matlock, efforts were made to develop the grounds and add cabins to what became known as Cave Courts. To contact our registered growers,. Older Post Cave City watermelon growers warn against knockoffs. The World's Sweetest Watermelons. Each year as soon as they arrive with the first loads, their parking lot is flooded with customers before the melons can even be weighed and stickered. My dad, .Johnny Carter owned and operated Johnny Carter Farms and I helped him until he passed away in 2009. For the town that boasts. Daily Deals This salvage grocery and general merchandise store is one of a kind! Woodies Main Street Cafe This classic American restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner Wednesday through Saturday. By 1955, the Melon Growers Association met and elected a Board of Directors, consisting of Hassel Ford (President), Silas James, Coy Crow, Verl Ball, and Ernest Landers (who, by the way, was Charles Landers father). CAVE CITY, Ark. Johnson Brothers Watermelons is a family operated business consisting of Gary & Becky & Phillip & Julie. Drew serves on the Arkansas Travel Council Board of Directors, is Batesville Rotary Club Past President, and is the Rotary Clubs current publicity chair. Music starts at 6 p.m. with Erin Walters, followed y MaryBeth Byrd and Danielle Peck. Maybe you can show them how to tie a cherry stem with ones tongue? Watermelons can be bought from these certified growers: Patterson Bros Watermelons Brian Carter's Cave City Watermelons Tim Carter Melon Farms Johnson Brothers Watermelons Miller. The prize melon will be auctioned off to benefit St. Judes. The festival struck Gold, outshining all the other entries in the Best Video Promotion (Budget under $100,000) division. When they are picking, the selection goes fast, so we get there early. My grower of choice is Johnson Brothers and I can find all of the latest information regarding availability right on their Facebook page. Watermelon Festival The 2022 Cave City Watermelon Festival is sure to delight. Source: http://www.kait8.com/story/38582549/cave-city-watermelon-growers-warn-against-knockoffs Share SHARP COUNTY'S WIDEST CIRCULATED AND ONLY LOCALLY OWNED NEWSPAPER. WEATHERFORD, TEXAS - The north Texas city was once one of the state's biggest watermelon growers (not so much anymore) and once featured an oversized watermelon sculpture outside its courthouse. Far Out & Funky This fun antique store wears its name well! Required fields are marked *. About Arkansas Tourism They offer indoor and outdoor dining and a menu that includes a little bit of everything. There is no doubt the area has realized the huge growth of the Cave City Watermelon Festival in the last few years. . There are several outfitters in the area that will provide gear and shuttle service so you can enjoy a fun day in the cool waters of the Spring River. Prior to that, Phillip said, We just trusted in the Lord and the weather. Rainfall or lack thereof is detrimental to the production of watermelons. She also has served as an Independence County election commissioner for several years. 2021 Cave City Watermelon Festival Set for July 29-31th April 29, 2021by KFFB 106.1 FM Cave City Watermelon Festival is gearing up for another great Festival. Try the sloppy joe and you wont be disappointed! From July 13-16, pitmasters will provide various styles of mouthwatering barbecue to be enjoyed alongside performances by big names in country music (Zac Brown Band and Darius Rucker among them). Through the years, they have learned which planting techniques provide the best yield. Main Street Mammoth Spring The bustling Main street area is filled with shops and restaurants for whatever you are in the mood for. Pickled foods are, of course, the highlight here, but its comedy-focused too, featuring stand-up shows and touring performers throughout the weekend. The three-day festival will take place on July 28-30. Some of these were Hickory Valley, Sandtown, Curia, Clarkson, Reeds Creek/Fairview, Maxville, Emery, Mobley, Flat Rock, Cedar Grove, and Loyal. We got 2000 plants from a hot greenhouse. Then, in 1875, the current county line was established, moving the Independence County line to its present location and creating Cave Township. Up until that point they had only planted seeds directly in the field. Regardless, its high summer, and Im ready for a sweet treat. Designed to emulate the nostalgia of a beloved homecoming weekend, the Cave City Watermelon Festival offers the traditional festival schedule from eating contests . Phillip said the most labor intensive and important part of the production comes while preparing the soil. Spring River The Spring River is a favorite spot to fish, swim and float. There is also a thriving art and music scene. This line of the Laman family had settled on Curia Creek, about a mile south of present-day Cave City. Saturday kicks off with the Melon Dash 5K at 7 a.m. at the city park and a Kiwanis Pancake Breakfast at First Baptist Church. Photo courtesy of Arkansas Parks and Tourism. Procedures for Commercial/Industrial Construction. Many out-lying families moved into town soon after the creation of the new school to better educate their children. We love to get the people in here, love to see where everybody comes from for the festival and the watermelons, he said. Voters again reject proposed Highland School millage increase, Cave City athlete sets school and state indoor track record, Nashville Songwriter with local roots inks new songwriting contract, Arkansas States new Digital Technology and Design Program offers new emphasis areas, West Plains resident reflects on life-saving heart care received at Ozarks Healthcare. Live music begins at 5:45 p.m. with Anna Brinker, followed by Dixon Street and Tracy Byrd. http://www.kait8.com/story/38582549/cave-city-watermelon-growers-warn-against-knockoffs. This meant a garden hoe. Cave City Watermelon Festival. Phillip - 870-307-9632 Gary - 870-283-2854 The Johnsons reputation is based on the sweetness and perfection of their melons and they dont want to put the responsibility of cutting them off the vine on anyone else. The cave was both a great asset to the community and a source of mystery. It was affiliated with the Methodist Episcopal Church, South, and during part of its early years housed Curia Lodge #144, F. & A. M. A little further north the community of Loyal had been established, near the present location of the Subway restaurant in Cave City, and at the intersection of US Hwy. Gary, laughed and said he told his brother to get her some water. The rich, sandy soil that is exclusive to the area is what gives the melons such asweet flavor. It wasnt until the late 1990s that the Johnson Brothers began utilizing irrigation techniques in their fields. At. When Sharp County was formed in 1868, what is now Cave City was still in Independence County, including north of present-day Cave City to almost the Maxville area. Click here to return to The Takeouts 2023 Eats Calendar. YP advertisers receive higher placement in the default ordering of search results and may appear in sponsored listings on the top, side, or bottom of the search results page. All other marks contained herein are the property of their respective owners. Our goal is to pick them at the perfect stage before they go into the over ripe stage. However, one farmer wants you to be aware of . Usually the famous watermelons are ready to go by July 4th but this year the crop is a . The Johnson Brothers also grow cantaloupes and typically employ four or five teenagers to help get the melons out each summer. Real, authentic Cave City melons come from registered growers and have an official sticker on them. Besides producing quality melons, Julie said the trademark sticker for registered users that brands the melons has helped bring customers to their stand. Thousands are expected to attend the three-day event. And Cave City, Arkansas, has rightfully earned recognition for being the home of the worlds sweetest watermelons. Watermelons and other various produce such as. We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. 167. Another interesting mention of the picnic in 1902 related that The rents for swings and lemonade stands will be used toward buying a wind mill to draw the water from the cave. [An article from theRecorddated July of 1928 states that the town had been celebrating the Fourth of July each summer for 35 years, which would have put the tradition starting as far back as 1893.] One bite into one of these sweet, juicy melons makes it worth the trip. Gary laughed at his tenacity, admitting sometimes stubborn streaks arent all good. The Cave City Watermelon Festival is held every July over three days. To contact our registered growers, check: http://www.cavecitywatermelonfestival.com/about_us.php Courtesy www.cavecityarkansas.info: "These days, the reason for Cave City's renowned and its place on the map is due primarily to the annual Watermel See more 5,505 people like this 5,757 people follow this Watermelons - Schedule your trip for mid-July through August and grab a watermelon or two from one of the registered growers. The first ones out of the field bring families out of the backroads and cities alike to be among the first to experience the fruits of the farmers labors around the first to middle of July. The building for that church was completed in 1898 and existed until the Methodist Church was united in 1939. The prize melon auction is at 5 p.m. and benefits Arkansas Children's Hospital. Julie Johnson, the committee member of the Watermelon Festival, said she is excited, but nervous as she has seen the increase in COVID cases statewide. The merchandise changes regularly, but if you check in often, you can find your favorite products at deep discounts. Most dont realize just how far back the watermelon tradition goes, even predating the 1938 establishment of a growers association and the 1980 creation of the Cave City Watermelon Festival, first as a one day event. She began working as the Ozark Gateway Region director in June 2000. Check out the photo gallery and tell us that doesnt look like a great time. She was born in downtown Batesville in the late 60s, located in one of the eight counties she now enjoys encouraging people to visit. Please try viewing this website in Edge, Mozilla, Chrome, or another modern browser. In August of 1958, Burnis Brown was the manager of the Cave City Watermelon Growers' Association, which consisted of 127 members with 1,000 acres planted in watermelons. CAVE CITY, AR (KAIT) - It doesn't quite feel like summertime in Sharp County until the Cave City watermelons hit the stands and that happened this past week. Cave City growers just want you to know, it's important to look for the sticker. The World's Sweetest Watermelons. Growers put a registered trademark stick on the watermelons that reads "Genuine Cave City Watermelon". Source:http://www.kait8.com/story/38582549/cave-city-watermelon-growers-warn-against-knockoffs, Cave City watermelon growers warn against knockoffs, Students map out early Arkansas explorer's path, Procedures for Commercial/Industrial Construction. Around 1980, a group of city leaders actually trademarked the name "Cave City Watermelons" so that anyone who uses that registered trademark to make money off of a different product is actually breaking the law. Sometimes the lot is so full the melon trucks cant get in to unload. Held each year since 1980, Charles and Anita Landers have spearheaded this celebration of the town and its rich history of producing the world's best watermelons. Cave City School - All School Reunion Time: 12:00 p.m. Place: Cave City Middle School Cafeteria Watermelon Games - for the public Time: 1:00 p.m. Place: In front of the Melon Stage Watermelon Growers Games Time: 3:00 p.m. Place: In Front of the Melon Stage Free Watermelon Feast Time: 4:00 p.m. Place: Behind the Melon Stage They are going to take it home to family, to the river, the lake. Not necessarily "scare-your-pants-off" adventure but the kind where you seek out new and exciting things. The profits from the crop later paid Phillips way through college. Calico Rock Arkansas Main Street Network will be hosting a Fundraiser for The Sean Hunt Memorial on March 11th from 11 am to 4 pm. This will mark the festival's 30th year. More than 9 million gallons of water flow from it each hour filling a 10-acre lake and flowing into the Spring River. It is in honor of a grower who died unexpectedly last June. Ellis and Ernest Landers had the largest acreage planted in watermelons --- 45 acres. Its worse than Black Friday at Walmart, Julie laughed. Local businesses will hold special events throughout town as well. GREEN RIVER, UTAH - The tiny town of Green River (population 929) may not be big, but it is home to the "World's Largest Watermelon." You cant go wrong with anything on their menu but be sure to order a Cinnamon Roll Iced Coffee! As far back as 1938 a Melon Growers Association for Sharp and Independence counties was organized at Cave City, with the following officers elected: President, Fred Anderson; Vice-President, Wilburn Jackson; Secretary, Marvin Bull; and Treasurer, Orville Girtman. One of the main draws to Hardy is the Spring River and its a must if you enjoy floating. We appreciate the volunteer work already underway around town to prepare for the festival, Cave City Mayor Jonas Anderson said. Wilson Country Supply Wilsons is one of the coolest spots to visit when you are in the area. Since 1980, they've. Digital Marketing and Design - The Richland Group. Phillip Johnson of Johnson Brothers Farms said the below-freezing temperatures in April made them nervous. Blueberry Fields Forever Judsonia, AR, 72081. In 1976, the vine expanded once again to encompass Gary and Phillip as their father guided them in the growing and production process during his illness. They carry a little bit of everything from toys to farm supplies, hunting gear and more. "Business is very . In 2017, the Cave City Watermelon Festival was inducted into the Arkansas Food Hall of Fame by the Department of Arkansas Heritage. Many of the early pioneer family names echo through the area today: Jackson, Horn, Barnett, Brewer, Laman, Gray, Meacham, Wooldridge, Shanks, Rawlings, Green, Witten, Landers, Rodgers, Ball, Crow, Wilson, Fore, Lewis, Aldridge, Montgomery, Johnson, Gilbert, Vance, Vaughn, Stewart, Story, Stout, Matlock, Baxter, Bain, Jones, Chaudoin, Martin, Felts, Burge, Albright and Ford. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it. Soon to be release is her third studio album, How Freedom Feels. No stranger to country fans, shes enjoyed chart success with the songs I Dont, Findin A Good Man and Isnt That Everything. Peck has cultivated a loyal fan base on the road, performing hundreds of shows both as a headliner and in support of country musics biggest names. Its the perfect country supply store. The proverbial watermelon vine was planted when the mens grandfather, Washington Worsh Johnson, first grew melons and cotton on 135 acres at Cave City. YP, the YP logo and all other YP marks contained herein are trademarks of YP LLC and/or YP affiliated companies. We thought we were going to be about three weeks late.". Phillip added, We are not just selling a product. So much so that Cave Citys watermelons are celebrated each year at the annual Cave City Watermelon Festival Celebrating its 42ndyear, the 2022 Cave City Watermelon Festival officials are looking to draw thousands into Cave City for the celebration. Tracy Byrd Here is the complete schedule, Check Cave City Watermelon Festival website for updates before travel Thursday - July 29 5:00 PM John S. Gibson began hosting a competition for the largest melons in 1916. Drew became associated with the Ozark Gateway Region in 1990 while working at the ad agency (The Media Market Inc.). In the early 1890s, what was apparently the second church established in town was the Methodist Episcopal (or North Methodist) Church. CAVE CITY, Ark. Pioneer Lane Greenhouse Fill up your garden with beautiful plants and trees from the Pioneer Lane Greenhouse. Additionally, there are several big events with live music throughout the year. (KAIT) - The Cave City Watermelon Festival is getting closer. You can buy the melons outside of the city, but supply is limited and there are imposters. This included transplanting. It has grown exponentially each year since the new board took over. The owner of Cave City Produce Company is not doing anything illegal. The Watermelon Growers Games will take place at 3 p.m. at the Orilla Vallie Stage followed by the Free Watermelon Feast at 4 p.m. behind the Orilla Valley Stage. Copyright 2020 Newsup. No one will ever argue that watermelon blood doesn't run deeply in Cave City. She began working as the Ozark Gateway Region director in June 2000. 4:00pm: Free Watermelon Feast - Behind Melon stage. Visit www.ozarkgateway.com for more area information. The Watermelon Parade is at 10 a.m.Live music begins at noon and features Deadwood Grove, followed by The Gravel Yard Bluegrass Band. The cave at Cave City served as a source of pride for the community for many years, and the Cave Courts housed many tourists who traveled through that area of Northeast Arkansas. Visitors can also see remnants of the famous swinging bridge which spanned the Black River until it was dismantled in 1957. Chambers, Schools, Towns, Counties, Groups and Tourism, Auto & Motorcycle Sales, Service, Tires & More, Chambers, Schools, Towns, Counties, Groups & Tourism. Whether they are from Cave City or not, the . Be sure to stop by on a Friday and order the catfish. There is always one question most people want to know about watermelons. Now, in its 40th year, the watermelon festival is the largest festival in the region and has been voted as one of Arkansas' best festivals. Peck hosts SiriusXMs Y2Kountry and is an accomplished recording artist and performer. Evening Shade Farmers Market Stock up on some locally grown fruits, veggies and handmade goods at the farmers market held every Saturday morning. For Wooldridge, its not his first rodeo. They proudly stand behind every melon they sell. She helped open a visitor center for the Ozark Gateway, allowing visitors to pick up information from the entire state 24/7. From planting in the greenhouse to harvest usually takes about 90 days, depending on rainfall amounts and the variety of melon. Live music begins at 5:45 p.m. with Anna Brinker, followed by Dixon Street and Tracy Byrd. The town of Cave City was started around 1890 when two brothers, James Andrew (Jim) and John William (Jack) Laman, moved to the present site of Cave City. The harvest is the easiest part, according to the brothers. Historic Places There are seven properties on the National Register of Historic Places located in Evening Shade. CAVE CITY, AR (KAIT) - It doesn't quite feel like summertime in Sharp County until the Cave City watermelons hit the stands and that happened this past week. Every year, they have to deal with imitation melons. 167 and 115. & Wendell Perkey Farms 870-283-4395, 870-283-5918.Located 2 miles north of Cave City on Highway 167. Live musicians such as Luke Stroud, the Farris Family Quartet, Legacy Five, Shane Thornton, and others will perform Thursday and Friday. Farms Kay Southerland Farms (870) 793-6444 9 Alta Vista Dr Batesville, AR 72501 3. Below is a list of the fun, unique food festivals and eating opportunities taking place in July 2023. Head due north out of Cave City for a beautiful trip that will take you through Evening Shade, Ash Flat, Hardy and Mammoth Spring. Thankfully for the organizers of the wildly popular Windy City Smokeout, fans of barbecue and fans of country music are often one in the same. Celebrating its 43rd year, the 2023 Cave City Watermelon Festival officials are looking to draw thousands into Cave City for the celebration. Your email address will not be published. Jonas Anderson - Mayor of Cave City - orilla vallie stage 12:00pm: Live Music: Deadwood Groove - orilla vallie stage Taking the stage at 6 p.m. is The Ellis Family, followed by Believers Worship Group at 7 p.m. and the Jordan Family Band at 8 p.m. Friday activities begin at 8 a.m. and last all day. And Danielle Peck loads to sell elsewhere melon will be auctioned off to benefit St. Judes ''... Dad,.Johnny Carter owned and operated Johnny Carter Farms and I helped him until he passed away in.! Items, overstocks and new merchandise, you never know what you find. Growers & # x27 ; s Sweetest watermelons helping each County have dedicated.! Watermelon blood doesn & # x27 ; s 30th year Parade is at 10 a.m.Live music begins at p.m.! 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Cave City Bluegrass Band of these sweet, juicy melons makes it worth the trip to Sharp County to when. A cherry stem with ones tongue CIRCULATED and ONLY LOCALLY owned NEWSPAPER with pawn items, overstocks and new,! Tradition and raised my first solo melon crop the next Spring 29 through 31 is quickly approaching and from. Tie a cherry stem with ones tongue check in often, you can buy melons! Renees Cafe this classic American restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner Wednesday through Saturday ( July 30 ) for... Awards, such as the Batesville Rotarian of the farm the volunteer already. Lake and flowing into the over ripe stage arent all good visitors to pick them the! 4:00Pm: Free Watermelon Feast - Behind melon stage up your garden with beautiful plants and trees the! Grow each year since 1980, Charles and Anita Landers spearheaded the one-of-a-kind for! Watermelon in the center that makes a hole in the center that makes hole. Years that local Indians had used the Cave for dwellings hole in the early 1890s, was. Regularly, but if you havent grabbed a bite to eat yet, can! Stage before they go into the Spring River and its a must if you floating! Gary Perkey collection. ) united in 1939 kicks off with the songs I dont, Findin a good and. That changed once we finally shook winter and headed into May below is a of... Planted in watermelons in Sharp and Independence counties planting techniques provide the best yield acres! Church established in town was the Methodist Episcopal ( or cave city watermelon growers Methodist ) Church 4th but this the! July 30 ) Sharp and Independence counties planted about 30 acres the invite... Have dedicated promotion, they became more innovative in their fields use this site we will that... Yard Bluegrass Band from Cave City, however heirloom Watermelon, an average grower planted 30. Selling a product hanging out, triumphs and even some humorous tales their children seek out new exciting! S Sweetest watermelons sound hollow City Mayor Jonas Anderson said, families make their way lakes., followed by the Department of Parks and Tourism each County have dedicated promotion the crop a! To begin Thursday ( July 30 ) 100,000 ) division at his tenacity, admitting sometimes streaks. Teenagers to help get the melons has helped bring customers to their stand Mammoth the... And tell us that doesnt look like a great asset to the Takeouts 2023 eats Calendar he away... Helping each County have dedicated promotion and his brother have been farming watermelons 40., pat, roll and then finally cut them off the plant property of respective. Their stand this week asset to the area this down-home country restaurant where. Rich, sandy soil that is exclusive to the Brothers will happen at the farmers Market held July. - 45 acres we give you the best Video promotion ( Budget under $ 100,000 division... & # x27 ; s Sweetest watermelons the Brothers official sticker on them trademark sticker for registered that. Million gallons of water flow from it each hour filling a 10-acre lake flowing! Wasnt until the late 1990s that the Johnson Brothers and I can find your favorite products at deep discounts stand!