70 years of tradition
Luling Watermelon Thump
Get ready for a juicy celebration at the upcoming Luling Watermelon Thump in Luling, Texas! This beloved festival has been a summer tradition since 1954, bringing together locals and visitors to honor the town's watermelon heritage.
How it started
In 1954, Hermon Allen, the principal of Luling Elementary School, proposed the idea of a celebration to promote the local watermelon market and honor the growers. The name "Thump" comes from the practice of thumping a watermelon to check if it's ripe - a hollow sound means it's ready to eat.
Over the years, this small-town event has grown into a major four-day festival that draws roughly 30,000 visitors to Luling, which only has a population of 5,500 people. The annual Thump has become an important part of Luling's identity and agricultural heritage.
The Seed-Spitting Contest of 1974
Can't-Miss Thump Events
The seed-spitting contest: Competitors try to spit watermelon seeds as far as they can. The world record of 68 feet 9 1/8 inches was set here in 1989 by Lee Wheelis, a local man.
The watermelon weigh-in: Growers compete to see who can produce the biggest watermelon. The largest melon in the festival's history weighed a whopping 141 pounds!
The Thump Queen pageant and parade: A festival queen is crowned each year and presides over the giant Watermelon Thump Parade.
The festival also includes live music, carnival rides, food booths, and craft vendors.
Thump Dates: June 27-30, 2024
Head to Luling for Summer Fun
The Watermelon Thump allows visitors to experience small-town Texas culture, learn about the area's agricultural history, and enjoy delicious watermelons. It has even gained national attention, with past champions appearing on shows like The Tonight Show and Nashville Now.
When you visit Luling for the Thump, don't forget to check out the town's famous watermelon water tower. This 154-foot-tall structure, painted to resemble a giant watermelon, stands as a year-round symbol of Luling's pride in its signature crop.
Mark your calendars for June 27-30 and head to Luling for a slice of pure Texas fun at the Watermelon Thump. It's a sweet way to kick off summer and experience a unique piece of Lone Star State heritage!