Crisp Co. cuts the ribbon on the 2023 74th Annual Watermelon Days Festival

CORDELE, Ga. – It was a who’s-who of the Crisp County community Thursday morning as they cut the ribbon on the start of the 74th Annual Watermelon Festival.

This year’s Capital Watermelon Queen, Adahy Pritchett is excited to be cutting the ribbon on this year’s event.

“So this is actually my second time. I used to be with the Georgia Watermelon Association, so I’m very honored and proud to have this title as the capital watermelon queen. It’s always been a dream of mine to be the capital watermelon queen so I’m honored and excited…” said Adahy Pritchett, 2023 Watermelon Capital Queen.

And, it’s not just her, we spoke with the mother of of one of the little watermelon queens about playing a big part in this year’s watermelon festival.

“As you can tell, she loves the watermelon. We’re really proud of her. She’s got a heart and a personality that won’t stop. And we’re ready for everybody in town to get a little piece of that,” said Carly Corson, mother of Teeny Miss Melon.

But, despite the celebration, many in the community are still focusing on why they’re celebrating…the watermelons themselves.

“Watermelon’s farmgate value in crisp county as of 2021 was 18 million dollars. You take that out of the county, out of the motels, the restaurants, the repair shops, the tire shops, the grocery stores, everywhere; it would really hurt this community,” said Kenny Smith, Agriculture Committee Chair, Crisp County.

“…There’s something about knowing that people come from everywhere, just to be a part of the watermelon festival that we have. Someone said a few minutes ago that we are the watermelon capital of the world. And that’s something that we should truly be proud of…” said Reverend Isaac Owens, Pastor, Mt. Calvary Baptist Church.

And, of course, the chance to eat some of the best watermelon grown in the state.

“Are you excited to eat some watermelon today?”

” Yes sir. I love watermelon,” said Adley Taylor, 2023 Teeny Miss Melon.

As members of the community of all ages get set to enjoy the festivities, they’re excited for everyone to come and celebrate the humble watermelon.

Stay tuned to CBS 44 for continued coverage of the 2023 Watermelon Days Festival.

Brian Roche reporting.

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