The Watermelon Capitol of the World is preparing for the 73rd Annual Watermelon Days Festival.
The festival is a long standing tradition in the city of Cordele, the theme this year is “Getting sweeter with time since 1949.”
City representatives are excited to continue that legacy saying, “this festival is just a great tradition that people come from all over for and it’s just a great thing that up grandparents and parents pass along to their children,” said Tamala Mathis, Vice President of Marketing and Special Projects for Cordele-Crisp Chamber of Commerce.
The month-long event means a lot to the community, but not just for the fun activities, watermelon have a large economic impact on the city.
Experts say the city grows and ships over 200 million pounds of melons each year.
Local watermelon farmer Jordan Carter says the popular fruit is the gem of the area.
"Leger & Son does about 3,000 loads annually. We ship our product up and down the east coast and in the Midwest. As far as Crisp County, it’s very rich in agriculture. Watermelon just happens to be the star of the show, ”said Jordan carter, Director of Sales and Marketing for Leger and Son, Inc.
The fruit is having its day in the spotlight June 24th and 25th.
Friday June 24th the festivities will begin with hot air balloon rides.
Saturday morning, June 25, the city will hold a watermelon parade. The fun will wrap up Saturday night with the official festival.
With arts and crafts, food vendors, and live entertainment, the chamber of commerce is inviting all to come and enjoy.
FESTIVAL INFORMATION:
Friday March 25th
- 8:00 a.m. STEM Media Flights from Various Schools in Crisp County
- 5:00 p.m. Hot Air Balloon Launch from Georgia Veterans State Park
- 4:00-8:00 p.m. Hot Air Balloon Tether Rides (weather permitting) from Georgia Veterans State Park
- 8:00 p.m. Hot Air Balloon Glow at Georgia Veterans State Park
Saturday, March 26th
- 7:30 a.m. Hot Air Balloon Launch from Georgia Veterans State Park
- 4:00-8:00 p.m. Hot Air Balloon Tether Rides (weather permitting) from Georgia Veterans State Park
- 5:00 p.m. Hot Air Balloon Launch from Georgia Veterans State Park
- 8:00 p.m. Hot Air Balloon Glow at Georgia Veterans State Park
Sunday, March 27th
- 7:30 a.m. Hot Air Balloon Launch from Georgia Veterans State Park