First Annual Hermiston Melon Fest Coming to Festival Street Aug. 17

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Bathtub races on Festival Street will be part of the fun at Saturday's first annual Hermiston Melon Fest. (File photo)

The inaugural Hermiston Melon Fest will sprout up in downtown Hermiston on Saturday, Aug. 17 with a day full of games, activities and contests that celebrate the region’s iconic watermelons.

The fun can be found on the Festival Street from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. with free face-painting, games and a waterslide for kids, plus food, craft vendors and a photo booth.

Main events include:

  • The Splash and Dash 2019 Bathtub Races, 11 a.m. Teams of three will compete on a closed course with a bathtub on wheels full of water. The winning team will receive a pizza party for six and a trophy. Register for free at Hermiston City Hall or the Hermiston Community Center by Thursday, Aug. 15.
  • Watermelon Seed Spitting Contest, noon. Test your seed-spitting skills against challengers from the watermelon capital of the world. No sign-up necessary.
  • Watermelon Costume Contest, 1 p.m. Come with your best watermelon-inspired costume for the chance to win $300 for first place, $200 for second place or $100 for third place. Open to all ages.
  • After-Party at Maxwell Pavilion, 6 p.m. The day ends with a 21-and-older event at the Maxwell Pavilion at the corner of S. First Place and W. Orchard Ave. Live music will perform from 7-10 p.m.

For more information, call the Hermiston Parks and Recreation Department at 541-667-5018.