Luling ready for the 72nd annual Watermelon Thump
By Anthony Collins
LPR Editor
The town of Luling is once again preparing to welcome thousands of visitors for its beloved annual tradition, the 2025 Watermelon Thump. Running from Thursday, June 26 through Sunday, June 29, this four-day event honors the region’s rich watermelon-growing heritage with a mix of contests, live music, parades, and community celebration.
Festival Schedule:
June 26–29
Festivities kick off on Thursday at 5:00 p.m. as the carnival, food court, artisan market, and beer garden officially open their gates. By 5:30 p.m., judges will be evaluating champion melons, followed at 7:00 p.m. by the Thump Queen Coronation—a cherished local tradition. The evening closes with live music on the Pavilion Stage.
Friday brings excitement for younger participants as the kids’ seed-spitting contest begins at 5:30 p.m. At 8:00 p.m., the main stage lights up with performances from America Cuevas, followed by La Maquinaria Norteña until midnight.
Saturday is perhaps the most jam-packed day, beginning with the grand parade on Davis Street at 10:00 a.m., featuring colorful floats and the newly crowned Thump Queen. By midday, a watermelon eating contest takes place at 12:30 p.m., followed by the champion watermelon auction at 3:00 p.m. At 4:30 p.m., participants from across the region compete in the World Championship seed-spitting contest. That night, live performances include acoustic sets, Ty Myers, and headliner Braxton Keith, running until 1:00 a.m.
Sunday offers a relaxed but meaningful close to the event, starting with a classic car show at 10:00 a.m. Kids show off their mini watermelons at the “Lil Growers” weigh-in at 1:00 p.m., and at 2:30 p.m., the community honors its veterans. Adult seed-spitting finals commence at 3:00 p.m., with the festival officially closing at 6:00 p.m.
This year’s concerts offer a flavorful mix of Texas music styles. On Friday night, America Cuevas performs from 8:30 to 10:00 p.m., with La Maquinaria Norteña taking over until midnight (outhousetickets.com). Saturday night continues the musical momentum with early acoustic performances and a strong lineup capped off by Ty Myers and Braxton Keith from 11:00 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. Over at the Beer Garden Stage, Friday’s entertainment includes Saltflat Blvd, Megan Ashley, and a tribute to Turnpike Troubadours. Saturday welcomes Zydeco Blanco, Jamie Kruger, Velvet, and live DJs. General admission tickets range from $35 (early bird) to $40, with VIP options at $150. Children under 12 get in free.
Beyond the competitions and concerts, the Watermelon Thump includes attractions for all ages. Carnival rides, a Kids Zone with aquatic-themed games, and a bustling exhibitor market with crafts and artisan goods bring lively energy to downtown Luling. Sunday’s classic car show adds vintage flair, and the patriotic tribute to veterans provides a solemn and heartfelt moment. Thump Queen coronation festivities and the ever-popular beer garden offer even more to savor.
Founded in 1954 by a local high school student and principal, the Watermelon Thump began to honor and promote the area’s watermelon growers. Over seven decades, it has grown into a defining celebration of small-town pride, drawing attendees from across the state and beyond.
The Watermelon Thump takes place in downtown Luling at 319 E. Davis Street. Attendees should prepare for hot weather, stay hydrated, and plan to arrive early for parking, especially during peak concert times.
This year’s Thump promises a fun and family-friendly experience immersed in Texas culture. With world-class contests, toe-tapping music, hand-crafted goods, and heartfelt community moments, it offers something special for everyone.
Whether you’re a local, a returning visitor, or a first timer, the Luling Watermelon Thump delivers a tradition and summer fun experience for everyone. Join the celebration, share a slice, and be part of a tradition that’s been thumping strong for over 70 years.
