The 45th Annual Cave City Watermelon Festival demonstrated once again that a small town with a big heart can make a meaningful impact. This year’s festival raised more than $20,000 through the auction of prize melons donated by local farmers.
The funds will benefit the Cave City Assembly of God Church Food Pantry, the Cave City School Backpack Program, and Ag for Autism. The food pantry supports families struggling with food insecurity, while the backpack program provides weekly meals to more than 100 students. Ag for Autism promotes awareness and resources for children and young adults with autism, particularly in rural communities.
The annual prize melon auction has become a cornerstone of the festival, attracting generous bids from community members and local businesses. Festival Committee Chair Amy Finster praised the community’s support, saying, “Moments like this remind us that the time we invest in the festival truly makes an impact.”
The festival committee, including Brian and Tara Barnett, Robert Brockway, Bobby and Amy Finster, Ashtin Johnson, Cody Mize, Cody Parsley, Tyler Parsley, Andrea Smith, Rustin, and Dalaney Woolridge, works year-round to make the event possible.
The festival celebrates Cave City’s agricultural heritage while giving back to the community. With record-breaking attendance and generosity, the 2025 festival has further cemented its role as a local tradition. Plans are already underway for the 46th Annual Cave City Watermelon Festival, scheduled for July 23–25, 2026.
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