Green River City News Release

Get ready for a flavor packed weekend in the desert. The City of Green River is hosting the 120th Annual Green River Melon Days Festival, taking place on Friday, Sept. 18 and Saturday, Sept. 19, 2026. 

This landmark anniversary honors over a century of agricultural legacy, celebrating the hardworking multigenerational farming families who have made Green River world famous for their delicious watermelons, cantaloupes, crenshaw’s and more. 

Every year on the third weekend of September, this quiet rural community of 800 people turns into a celebration of 4,000 to 5,000 visitors. Under this year’s festive theme, “Melon Days & Country Ways,” put on your boots and head on over to the O.K. Anderson Park for vendors, music, games & of course, the watermelon. 

Weekend Event Highlights: 

• The Famous Melon Munchin’: Following Saturday’s parade, local legacy farming families will slice up and distribute truckloads of free watermelons to festival-goers. 
• The 120th Annual Melon Days Parade: Kicking off at 10:00 AM on Saturday, September 19, the parade features marching bands, local floats, and a special appearance by the iconic, 20-foot motorized watermelon slice on wheels built back in 1960. 
• Family Fun & Competitions: The weekend features a 5K Melon Run, a Future Farmers of America (FFA) breakfast, a melon-carving contest, Softball Tournament, Golf Tournament, live musical performances and more. 
• Artisan & Food Vendors: Over a hundred food and craft vendors will line the park, including a dedicated “Jr. Entrepreneur” section showcasing local business-minded youth aged 17 and under. 

Whether you are a lifelong regular taking a trip down memory lane or a traveler stopping by, Melon Days promises a slice of authentic, timeless community charm. 

Event Details: 

• Dates: Friday, September 18 (12:00 PM – 8:00 PM) & Saturday, September 19, 2026 (10:00 AM – 8:00 PM) 
• Location: O.K. Anderson Park, 100 Solomon St., Green River, UT 84525 ● Admission: Free to the public 

For a full schedule of events, vendor applications, or parade details, please visit the official festival page at www.melon-days.com or follow Melon Days on Facebook and Instagram.