One watermelon can make a big difference.
One of the most anticipated and meaningful traditions of the Cave City Watermelon Festival returns Saturday, July 25, as the community comes together for the Annual Prize Watermelon Auction, an event that transforms award-winning watermelons into life-changing support for local families and charitable organizations.
The auction begins at 5 p.m. during the Cave City Watermelon Festival and serves as one of the festival’s largest annual fundraisers.
Last year, the generosity of local businesses, families and supporters helped raise $20,000, with proceeds benefiting three organizations that make a significant impact throughout the region:
First Assembly of God Food Bank
Cave City Backpack Program
Ag for Autism
Festival organizers hope this year’s auction will meet—or exceed—that impressive total.
The need has never been greater.
The Cave City Backpack Program, which helps provide weekend meals for children experiencing food insecurity, normally distributes approximately 100 backpacks of food each week. However, during the recent interruption in SNAP benefits, that number more than doubled to 215 backpacks every week, demonstrating just how many local children rely on the program for nutritious meals outside of school.
Organizers say every winning bid placed during Saturday’s auction helps put food on family tables, supports children facing hunger and strengthens organizations that serve the Cave City community throughout the year.
Even those who don’t plan to bid are encouraged to attend and cheer on participants, helping create an exciting atmosphere while supporting a worthy cause.
Those unable to attend the auction but who still want to help can also make an online donation. Every contribution, regardless of size, goes directly toward supporting the participating charities and helping local families in need.
Community leaders say the annual Prize Watermelon Auction is a reminder of what can happen when neighbors work together for a common purpose.
Supporters are encouraged to bring their checkbooks, invite friends and help continue one of the Cave City Watermelon Festival’s most impactful traditions.
For those wishing to contribute online, donations can be made through the festival’s official fundraising page.
Event Information
What: Annual Prize Watermelon Auction
When: Saturday, July 25, 2026
Time: 5:00 p.m.
Where: Cave City Watermelon Festival
Benefits:
First Assembly of God Food Bank
Cave City Backpack Program
Ag for Autism
Donate Online
Those unable to attend the auction may still support the cause by making an online donation:
https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/donation-form/donate-to-change-lives-7380
Leave a Reply