Nothing says summer like a cold, juicy slice of watermelon. National Watermelon Day, on August 3, celebrates this refreshing fruit, which is about 92 percent water and perfect for hot days. Watermelon is a favorite at picnics, barbecues and Fourth of July celebrations, and it can be eaten in slices, blended into drinks, grilled or added to salads.
History of National Watermelon Day
Watermelons originated in Africa. Wild ancestors grew in northeastern Africa, and evidence suggests people in ancient Egypt cultivated watermelons about 5,000 years ago. Watermelon seeds and paintings have been found in Egyptian tombs, including that of Tutankhamun.
Watermelons spread through the Mediterranean, Middle East and Asia. They arrived in the Americas with European colonists and enslaved Africans, who brought knowledge of growing them. Watermelons became an important crop in the American South.
Today, the United States is one of the world's major watermelon producers, with states such as Florida, Texas, Georgia and California leading. Seedless watermelons, developed in the 20th century, became popular in the 1990s. Oklahoma named watermelon its official state vegetable in 2007, because it is related to cucumbers and squash. Who created National Watermelon Day is not documented.
Why National Watermelon Day Matters
Watermelon is hydrating and a good source of vitamins A and C, making it a refreshing summer snack.
The fruit supports farmers across the South and West, and summer watermelon festivals bring communities together.
Watermelon is also nearly zero-waste: the rind can be pickled, and the seeds can be roasted, making it a great fruit for creative cooking.
Watermelon is also one of the most social fruits. A single melon can feed a crowd, which is why it is a fixture at family reunions, church picnics and Fourth of July gatherings. Many towns hold watermelon festivals with seed-spitting contests, carving competitions and eating races, turning a simple fruit into a community celebration.
How to Celebrate National Watermelon Day
- Eat a slice: enjoy cold watermelon outdoors.
- Blend a drink: make watermelon agua fresca or a smoothie.
- Grill it: grill watermelon slices for a smoky flavor.
- Make a salad: combine watermelon with feta and mint.
- Try pickled rind: a traditional Southern dish.
Celebrating at Work, School and Home
At work, a watermelon break on a hot afternoon is a refreshing team treat. In classrooms, students can estimate the weight or number of seeds in a watermelon, learn about its African origins, or explore why watermelons are mostly water. At home, families can have a seed-spitting contest outdoors, make watermelon popsicles, or carve a watermelon fruit bowl. To pick a ripe one, look for a creamy yellow field spot and a heavy feel for its size.
Fun Facts About National Watermelon Day
- Watermelon is about 92% water.
- Watermelons were grown in ancient Egypt about 5,000 years ago.
- Oklahoma's state vegetable is the watermelon.
National Watermelon Day FAQs
When is National Watermelon Day?
National Watermelon Day is August 3.
Where did watermelons come from?
Africa; they were grown in ancient Egypt.
How do I pick a ripe watermelon?
Look for a yellow field spot, a dull rind and a heavy feel.
Is watermelon a fruit or vegetable?
Botanically a fruit, though Oklahoma calls it its state vegetable.