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Melon Festivals in California

2 melon festivals in California — season runs June through September.

Upcoming in 2026

Firebaugh Cantaloupe Roundup

September 24–27, 2026 · Thu–Sun

Firebaugh · Free

In 3 months
Melons

Firebaugh's free four-day cantaloupe harvest festival with carnival rides, live music, and food.

Earlier this year

California Watermelon Festival

June 6–7, 2026 · Sat–Sun

Lakeview Terrace

Melons

A sweet two-day slice of summer packed with watermelon eats, live bands, and carnival fun.

Frequently asked

When is melon season in California?
Melon season in California runs June through September, peaking in July and August. The San Joaquin Valley — particularly the Fresno, Merced, and Kings county areas — produces most of the state's cantaloupe, honeydew, and watermelon crop, with the earliest watermelons arriving at farm stands in June. The Firebaugh area is especially known for cantaloupes; the Firebaugh Cantaloupe Roundup celebrates the harvest each fall. A ripe cantaloupe has a sweet fragrance at the blossom end and a slightly yielding feel; honeydew should feel heavy and have a waxy, creamy rind. Harvest events and U-pick windows follow the same window — check each listing for exact 2026 dates.
Can you pick your own melon in California?
Yes — California has pick-your-own melon farms where you can harvest your own. See the Gather Grove U-pick melon guide for locations and seasons.
Are melon festivals in California free?
It varies — many are free community events, while others are ticketed. Each festival's page on Gather Grove lists its admission.

Want to pick your own melon?

U-pick farms →