48th Annual
MS Watermelon Festival July 17 & 18, 2026
My name is Mike Cockrell. Some of you know me as Moonshiner Mike. I am one of the actors on Discovery Channel’s’ Moonshiners. This journey started for me in 2016 and I am currently still involved. Being a part of the show has given me multiple opportunities across the board. From going legal in the moonshine industry, to owning a seasoning company, and so much more to come.
Admission
2 day pass $20.00
Purchase at the gate on Friday
Friday the gates open at 3:30 pm
Adults $10.00
10 and under $5.00
Saturday gates open at 8:30 am
Adults $15.00
10 and under $5.00
No outside coolers. NO pets.
Things you might want to bring:
Hand sanitizer, ( we will be providing some around the park, but you might want your own) Wet Wipes, to help keep hands clean after eating all that melon!
Please allow ample time to park and get into the gates, and please be patient.
MS Watermelon Festival 5k Run/Walk
Registration/Check-in begins at 6:00 PM, race starts at 7:00 PM. Rain or Shine
Registration Fee $25.00 before July 2nd. $30.00 after July 2nd.
T-shirts guaranteed to pre-registered participants only!
For More Information (click here)
To Register, Click HERE
MS Watermelon Festival Car, Bike, and Truck Show
Saturday
AWARDS PRESENTED:
Top 5 Cars
Top 5 Trucks
Top 5 Motorcycles
Club Participation
Best of Show
Best Pre ’49
Best Race Car & Best Project-Rat Rod
$25 Entry
Jeep Show & Shine
Friday
AWARDS PRESENTED:
Best Paint/Wrap
Vintage
Stock
Best Interior
$15 Entry
LEARN ABOUT THE MISSISSIPPI WATERMELON FESTIVAL
Make this a summer to remember by planning a trip to the MISSISSIPPI WATERMELON FESTIVAL in downtown Mize, MS. Enter our biggest watermelon contest, enjoy the entertainment, or indulge in some of the best food around. Remember there is always all the FREE Watermelon that you can eat! There’s always something to do at our festival.
The 48th Annual Mississippi WATERMELON FESTIVAL is all set for the weekend of July 17th and 18th. We are entirely staffed by volunteer firefighters and their families. Phone: (601)517-3510 Email: mswatermelonfestival@gmail.com
SMITH COUNTY WATERMELON PRODUCERS
Shannon Powell 601-940-9468
Will Allen 601-317-0719
Pete Rutland 601-765-7731
Clyde Magee – 601-517-2506
Jonny Freeman – 601-382-0300
