A new voice has earned the title of Cave City’s Sweetest Voice.
Shaelyn Larae of Stilwell, Oklahoma, captured first place in the 2026 Cave City’s Sweetest Voice competition Thursday night during the 46th Annual Cave City Watermelon Festival, earning the opportunity to perform throughout the remainder of the festival.
The annual competition showcases talented vocalists from Arkansas and neighboring states and has become one of the festival’s most anticipated traditions.
Taking second place was Jeremy Johnson of Cave City,
while Tiffany Wisecarver of Oxford, Arkansas, earned third place honors.
Festival organizers congratulated all three winners following the competition and said they look forward to featuring them throughout the weekend’s entertainment lineup.
Visitors attending the festival will have additional opportunities to hear the winners perform during the remainder of the celebration, which continues through Saturday.
The 46th Annual Cave City Watermelon Festival also features free live entertainment, Food Truck Wars, the famous FREE Watermelon Feast, the Annual Prize Watermelon Auction, carnival rides, a parade and more.
The festival wraps up Saturday night with a FREE concert by country music star Sammy Kershaw at 8:30 p.m.
Admission to all festival activities and concerts is free.
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