Plan Your Visit to the Pageland Watermelon Festival

When the heat of July rolls in, so does one of the juiciest traditions in the Olde English District: the Pageland Watermelon Festival, happening July 17-19, 2025. This iconic Chesterfield County celebration, held each July, pays tribute to the region’s beloved crop and delivers a weekend packed with family fun, Southern charm and enough sweet slices to keep you cool no matter how hot it gets.

What is the Pageland Watermelon Festival?

Known for more than 70 years as the “Watermelon Capital of the World,” Pageland pulls out all the stops for this three-day event. Whether you’re a local or visiting from out of town, the Pageland Watermelon Festival delivers a lively taste of small-town South Carolina tradition.

Top Things to Do at the Festival

Expect an old-fashioned mix of a parade, carnival rides, crafts, live music, rodeo, and the ever-popular watermelon-eating and seed-spitting contests. The Melon Mile 5K gets your blood pumping at 8 a.m. on July 19. The festival’s annual car show features classic and custom vehicles along McGregor Street. There’s something here for all ages and interests.

What to Eat (Besides Watermelon)

Pro tip: Arrive hungry. In addition to endless watermelon, the festival also features food vendors serving up summertime favorites like funnel cakes, barbecue and fresh-squeezed lemonade. In addition to the food vendors on site, you can always grab some grub at one of the town’s restaurants.

Live Music & Entertainment

This year’s musical lineup includes performances by regional acts that bring a high-energy soundtrack to the festivities. Incorporating an array of genres, there’s no shortage of tunes to keep you dancing between slices. Check the Watermelon Festival Facebook page and Bandsintown for lineup announcements.

Explore More of Chesterfield County

If you’re visiting from outside the area, be sure to explore more of what Chesterfield County and the Olde English District have to offer. Take a hike at a state park, stop by a local farm stand or find a spot to cool off and unwind. And while you’re at it, browse our Things to Do and Events Calendar for even more summer adventures.

For more than 70 years, the Pageland Watermelon Festival has been a summertime staple, offering small-town charm and plenty of fresh watermelon. First-timers and longtime festivalgoers alike will tell you — it always hits the spot.

Start planning your visit by checking out the Pageland Watermelon Festival event page.