LULING, TX — The beloved Luling Watermelon Thump is set to make a triumphant return from June 26–29, 2025, filling the small town with the sweet scent of summer and the echoes of friendly competition. Always held on the last full weekend of June since its founding in 1954, the Thump has grown from a local celebration to a nationally recognized four-day festival attracting over 30,000 visitors to the town of just 5,000.
Origins of the “Thump”
It all started with Hermon Allen, principal of Luling Elementary, who envisioned a community event to celebrate local watermelon growers and promote the region’s melon market. A local high school student, Carol Ferguson, gave the festival its quirky and now-iconic name: the Watermelon Thump.
Over the decades, the Thump has blossomed into one of Texas’ most unique cultural events. While the original aim was agricultural pride, today’s festival is packed with events ranging from a classic car show to live concerts, a beer garden, children’s entertainment, carnival rides, and a bustling arts and crafts market.
Melon Royalty and Records
Central to the celebration is the Championship Watermelon Contest, where growers compete for the coveted title with Black Diamond melons—the only variety accepted in the competition. The heaviest melon on record tipped the scales at a whopping 141 pounds in 2019.
The Thump is also famous for the World Championship Seed-Spitting Contest. First etched into the Guinness Book of World Records in 1989 by Houston’s John Wilkinson (65 feet, 4 inches), the record was broken that same year by local legend Lee Wheelis, who spit a seed an astonishing 68 feet, 9 1/8 inches. This year, seed spitters will compete for $500 in prize money, with a bonus $500 awarded if the standing record is toppled.
And yes—there’s even a Watermelon Eating Contest, where stuffing your face and making a mess is not only acceptable but encouraged.
Star Power and Sweet Memories
The Thump has earned its place in pop culture, too. Over the years, champion melons have been delivered to celebrities like Johnny Carson, President Ronald Reagan, and Art Linkletter. Spitting champions and festival queens have appeared on national talk shows including The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, Regis and Kathy Lee, and Nashville Now.
A highlight of the weekend is the Watermelon Thump Parade, set for 10 a.m. Saturday, where floats, marching bands, Shriners, and clowns entertain thousands lining the streets. The Thump Queen, crowned earlier in the week, presides over the festivities with regal flair.
Why “Thump”?
Festival organizers say they’re still amused by how far the Thump’s fame has spread. Inquiries come in from around the world, and while some may be puzzled by the festival’s unusual name, most agree—it just sounds like fun. And fun is exactly what awaits in Luling this June.
For schedules, event updates, and mouthwatering sneak peeks, visit @thewatermelonthump on Instagram.
Just say “Thump” around Central Texas, and you’re sure to find a friend.
Got a good aim or a love for melons? This is the only time of year when spitting seeds is encouraged, eating fast is celebrated, and community pride shines as sweet as a Luling watermelon.
