Panhandle Watermelon Festival in Chipley June 24-25

May 17, 2016

watermelon1In celebration of 60 years as a festival unlike any other, Panhandle Watermelon Festival is excited to announce this year’s two day event will include musical performances by Tracy Lawrence, Gene Watson, Clint Daniels, Jeff Hyde, and Dailey & Vincent.

Songwriters Clint Daniels and Jeff Hyde will kick off Friday night’s event at Pal’s Park. Daniels has co-written several number one hits for Joe Nichols, Montgomery Gentry, Brooks & Dunn, Clay Walker and Easton Corbin. His song “Wish You Well” was recorded by George Strait for his latest album.

Hyde’s latest projects include Eric Church hits “Cold One”, “Record Year”, “Springsteen”, and Easton Corbin’s “I Can’t Love You Back”,

With one of the most masterful voices in country music, Gene Watson will also join the list of talent for Friday night’s concert event. The “Singer’s Singer” as he is rightfully referred to, Gene has remained defiantly traditional with his music to the pleasure of his far reaching fan base.

watermelonLineup2016Friday night’s concert event will highlight ACM, CMA Award winning and Grammy nominated Tracy Lawrence. With over 13 Million albums sold and 18 #1 singles, Tracy Lawrence will make PWF’s 60th celebration something you do not want to miss.

PWF has combined incredible music with equally impressive kid friendly activities that ensure everyone in your family will enjoy Friday night.

Come hungry and feast on fare that goes hand in hand with Friday night watermelon including hamburgers and hotdogs prepared by the Chipley Fire Department.

Saturday’s events commence early with the annual 5,000 meter Hot Trot Run at the Florida Panhandle Technical College. At the same time, spectators can head over to the Shrine Club for the traditional Pancake Breakfast. The family favorite Watermelon Parade is scheduled for 10am. Participants will organize at the Chipley High School Football Stadium and continue east on Hwy 90 through downtown to the delight of hundreds of eager faces.

Festivities will begin immediately following the parade at the Ag Center with gospel group The Thompsons kicking off another talented lineup of musicians. The time-honored introduction of queens and the watermelon contest and auction, hosted by Auctioneer David Corbin, round out the lunchtime activities.

Back by popular demand, the “Rockstars of Bluegrass” Dailey & Vincent will cap off Saturday’s musical lineup.

Numerous food and arts and crafts vendors will be scattered throughout the Ag Center grounds and visitors can drop by the Kiwanis table and pick up a complimentary slice of Watermelon while supplies last.

For more details on the 60th Annual PWF celebration visit our home online at panhandlewatermelon.com #panhandlewatermelon