Chipley Watermelon Festival 70 Years June 26-27

The 70th Panhandle Watermelon Festival returns to Chipley on June 26 and 27 with free country music concerts, a watermelon parade, and community events.

Tracy Byrd, Dailey & Vincent, and Ashley Monroe perform Friday at Jim Trawick Park. Gates open at 5 p.m. with children's activities; the concert starts at 6 p.m. Attendees should bring lawn chairs or blankets.

Saturday begins with a pancake breakfast and the 5K Hot Trot, followed by the watermelon parade through downtown. The day includes a classic car show, vendors, food booths, and the Big Watermelon Auction. Grace & Grit performs at the Washington County Agricultural Center at 10:45 a.m. and 1 p.m.

All events are free. The festival theme this year is "Melons and Music are Comin' in Hot." For details, visit www.panhandlewatermelon.com or the festival's Facebook and Instagram pages.