MURFREESBORO – Did you know that the very first Watermelon Festival in Murfreesboro was held to honor a local girl who was named as the state’s Watermelon Queen?

While things have changed since that inaugural event in 1985, including the local Melon Fest growing into a regional attraction, one thing remains the same….the annual search for winners in several contests featuring children.

Officials with the 2010 North Carolina Watermelon Festival are seeking contestants for the Little Princess Pageant, the Little Farmer and Little Miss Farmer contests.

Applicants for the Little Princess Pageant must be five years old by August 1, 2010. The field is limited to 10 contestants; early registration is encouraged. Contact Frances Bunch at 252-398-4630 to register or to receive additional information.

The Little Farmer and Little Miss Farmer contestants can be four or five years old. To register your child, contact Debbie Edwards at 252-398-3911.

The children will be featured in the big Watermelon Festival Parade scheduled for 10 a.m. on Saturday, July 31 in downtown Murfreesboro.

The 2010 North Carolina Watermelon Festival marks the silver anniversary of the event. Tens of thousands of festival patrons will flock to Murfreesboro during the event’s four-day run – July 28-31.

As is tradition, the Festival features live music, great food, arts and crafts and a carnival midway packed with rides for children and thrill-seekers. There is no admission to the Watermelon Festival.