More Than 50 Singers Auditioned as Final 10 Prepare to Compete During the 46th Annual Cave City Watermelon Festival
One of the most anticipated entertainment events of the 46th Annual Cave City Watermelon Festival takes center stage Thursday Night July 23, 2026 at 8pm as the festival’s 2026 Sweetest Voice Competition crowns its newest champion.
After receiving more than 50 auditions from talented vocalists across Arkansas, Oklahoma and Texas, festival organizers have narrowed the field to ten finalists who will perform live before judges and festival-goers for cash prizes and the opportunity to share the stage with two nationally recognized country music acts.
Festival officials say this year’s competition featured one of the strongest groups of contestants in the event’s history, making it a difficult decision for judges to select the finalists. Organizers thanked every performer who auditioned and praised the high level of talent displayed throughout the selection process.
Finalists Represent Three States
The finalists competing Thursday night include:
- Dustin Huckabee — Austin, Arkansas
- Tiffany Wisecarver — Oxford, Arkansas
- Nick Daniel — Conway, Arkansas
- CJ Smith — Cherokee Village, Arkansas
- Dylan Scribner — Batesville, Arkansas
- Chloee Rae — Blue Ridge, Texas
- Isabella Luttrell — Bixby, Oklahoma
- Jeremy Johnson — Cave City, Arkansas
- Lucy Conner — Alma, Arkansas
- Shaylan Larae — Stilwell, Oklahoma
The competition showcases performers from communities throughout Arkansas while also attracting singers from neighboring Oklahoma and Texas, highlighting the growing regional reputation of the Sweetest Voice competition.
Big Rewards Await the Winners
The 2026 Sweetest Voice Champion will receive a $500 cash prize and earn one of the biggest performance opportunities of the festival by opening Saturday night’s concert for country music star Sammy Kershaw.
The runner-up will also receive a coveted performance opportunity, opening Friday night’s concert for legendary country-rock band Confederate Railroad.
Amy Finster, Director of the Cave City Watermelon Festival Said, “come out and watch Dustin Huckabee, Tiffany Wisecarver, Dylan Scribner, Isabella Luttrell, Lucy Conner, Nick Daniel, CJ Smith, Chloee Rae, Jeremy Johnson, and Shaylan Larae battle it out for the Sweetest Voice title Thursday night at 8pm. We’re excited to welcome everyone to the 46th Annual Cave City Watermelon Festival. Come make memories with us, enjoy everything our community has to offer, and experience the sweetest festival in Arkansas!”.”
A Festival Tradition
The Sweetest Voice competition has become one of the signature events of the Cave City Watermelon Festival, giving emerging artists the opportunity to perform before large crowds while showcasing the incredible musical talent found throughout the Natural State and surrounding region.
Each finalist will perform live Thursday evening as judges evaluate vocal ability, stage presence and overall performance before selecting this year’s champion.
Festival organizers encourage residents and visitors to arrive early, cheer on the contestants and enjoy an evening of outstanding live entertainment.
Festival Continues Through the Weekend
The 46th Annual Cave City Watermelon Festival continues through the weekend with live music, carnival rides, family activities, vendors, watermelon events, contests and nationally known entertainment.
Highlights include:
- Thursday: Sweetest Voice Competition
- Friday Night: Confederate Railroad in concert
- Saturday: Sammy Kershaw in concert
- Saturday: The famous FREE Watermelon Feast
The annual festival attracts thousands of visitors to Cave City each year and remains one of Arkansas’ premier summer festivals.
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