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44th Annual Carytown Watermelon Festival

August 4, 2025

The Carytown Watermelon Festival returns for its 44th year with 80 musicians, 100+ exhibitors, one of the largest kids’ areas on the East Coast, and all the classic Carytown charm. The Carytown Watermelon Festival has grown into Virginia’s biggest one‑day festival. Families can enjoy live music on multiple stages, great food from local vendors, plenty of shopping, and—of course—tons of watermelon!

Details


Location: From entrance of Carytown to Byrd Theatre

Date/Time: Sunday, August 9th from10am-6pm. 

Cost: FREE admission; The Shriners will have five units of Shriners selling watermelon by the bowl for $2. Look for the men in red fez’ on the north side of Cary Street, who are supporting our local community in need by selling slices of sweet, juicy, red watermelon. Bring cash for watermelon bowls and other street vendor specials.  ATM’s will be on site.


Important Info


Parking: Park on side streets surrounding Carytown. You can also look for parking decks located within the area. Please be aware of NO PARKING SIGNS in the area and DO NOT PARK in the Kroger Parking lot located near the entrance of Carytown. Towing will be enforced.

What about pets? We love pets but encourage you not to bring them as the pavement is just too hot for them.


What to Expect


🎢 Live music all day on the various stages.  Times are posted at each stage and are subject to change.

πŸ‰ Sweet slices and delicious watermelon creations

🎑 Giant kids’ area

πŸ›οΈ Unique finds from over 100 local exhibitors

🌞 FREE and fun for the whole family!

🐢 Pet-friendly