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MCDADE — Bastrop County’s seed-spitting headquarters is finalizing preparations for its 77th annual Watermelon Festival this weekend, and three young ladies will be leading the celebration as McDade’s newly crowned queens of summer.
The 2025 Watermelon Queens Court was announced ahead of the July 12 festivities, with Andie Jenkins named Tiny Tot Queen, Delainey Dominguez as Junior Miss Queen and Hazel Shelley crowned Teenage Queen. The court will represent McDade throughout the year at events across Central Texas.
The city’s flagship festival kicks off Friday, July 11, with the return of its signature street dance on Main Street. Jimmy Rhodes & The Bandits will headline the night with a blend of honky-tonk, Southern rock and country favorites from 8 p.m. to midnight.
Saturday brings a full day of events, including the Sweatin’ Melons 5K, a field-filling car show and the grand parade, which begins at 10 a.m. in downtown McDade. The presentation of the new queens and the traditional watermelon feast is set for 4:30 p.m., followed by the prize watermelon auction.
According to organizers, the Watermelon Festival has remained a beloved tradition since its founding in 1948, when McDade residents planned the first event to raise funds after the local school burned down.
Proceeds continue to go back into the community each year through scholarships, teacher grants and support for youth organizations.
“More and more people come, but it’s stayed true to what it is,” Elgin resident Angel Trevino said at last year’s festival. “It’s always better with more people.”
Festivalgoers can find a full schedule and updates at mcdadetexas.com.
