Show off your creativity at Lakeside’s Watermelon-Decorating Contest! Similar to the popular Pumpkin-Decorating Contest held during the Lighthouse Festival each fall, this event invites individuals and families to transform a watermelon into a unique work of art.
Participants must provide their own watermelon, as watermelons will not be available for purchase this year.
For those who would like a dedicated workspace, the Rhein Center will be open on Friday, July 3, from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. with tables, tools and limited decorating supplies. Decorating at the Rhein Center is optional and offered as a convenience.
Completed watermelons should be dropped off at the west entrance of the Hoover Auditorium Lobby between 1:30-2:30 p.m. Saturday, July 4, where registration will take place. Entries will be judged (closed to the public) and displayed during the Awards Ceremony at 4 p.m. on the Hoover Auditorium Porch.
All participants will receive a miniature golf voucher. Winners in each category will receive a 2026 Daily Chautauqua Pass, and the Best Overall winner will receive two 2026 Daily Chautauqua Passes.
Categories include:
- Best Overall
- Most Lakeside Inspired
- Most Patriotic
- Best Painted Design
- Best Carved Design
- Best Use of Props
- Best Teen Entry
- Best Child Entry
