The Hampton County Watermelon Festival is back.The 80th annual event will be held June 20-25 at various locations throughout the county.The longest continuing festival in South Carolina took a two-year break due to the COVID-19 pandemic.Below is a list and schedule of events set for this week in the Lowcountry. For more information, visit the Festival website at https://hcmelonfest.org/Monday, June 20Youth ParadeLine up at 6 pm, Parade starts at 7 pm Held in VarnvilleSponsored by -- Beaufort Memorial Harrison Peeples Health Care Center Opening Ceremony7:30 pm at the Varnville gazebo following the Youth Parade. The Grand Marshals, Town Queens, and dignitaries will be present. Taste of Hampton County(a local food truck event)Sponsored by -- Town of VarnvilleThis event will be from 11 am until 8:30 pmTuesday, June 21Taste of Hampton County(a local food truck event)Sponsored by -- Town of VarnvilleThis event will be from 11 am until 8:30 pmChildren's Day in the Park Two hours of fun filled entertainment specifically designed for young children up to 12 years of age. There is face painting, games, bounce house and other activities. It's lots of fun and a great opportunity for kids to enjoy being part of the Watermelon Festival. Come join other families at Lightsey Park in Hampton from 10:00 am to 12 noon.Sponsored by -- Town of HamptonWednesday, June 22Lake Warren Fishing Contest Held at Lake Warren State Park6 am until 12 pmSponsored by -- Lowcountry Medical LinensThursday, June 23Pet ShowHeld at Lake Warren State Parkstarting at 4:30 pmSponsored by -- American LegionBattle of the TownsHeld at Wade Hampton High School football fieldBegins at 7 pmAdmission $4 (children under 6 free)Sponsored by -- Bug BustersArts and Crafts Vendors check-inBegins after 5 pm -- Hampton CourthouseFriday, June 24Arts & Crafts VendorsTee Shirt SalesFood VendorsStreet DanceMen of Distinction and Josh Hilley Band performing live on the main street in Hampton Sponsored by -- Ace Hardware/Brunson Building Supply, Hampton Regional Medical Center, Palmetto State Bank, Palmetto Rural Telephone Cooperative Inc (PRTC)Saturday, June 255K RunWatermelon Judging ContestArts & Crafts & Food VendorsTee Shirt SalesParadeWatermelon Eating Contest / Free slices