THE REYNOLDS REPORT

Tag: Events

  • Community Update: The Heroic Final Push for the Watermelon Carnival!

    Community Update: The Heroic Final Push for the Watermelon Carnival!

    The Reynolds Report Team

    As the sun sets today, the final touches are officially in place, and the stage is set for an incredible weekend. If you’ve stepped outside or driven through town today, you’ve probably noticed the sheer buzz of activity. Tomorrow, the Watermelon Carnival officially kicks off, but before the games, food, and festivities begin, we need to take a moment to talk about the incredible people who made it all happen.

    A Massive Shoutout to the City Street Department

    To say our City Street Department went above and beyond today would be a massive understatement. This tireless crew was out there grinding from 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM, pulling a grueling 13-hour shift in the heat to execute the final push. It has been a monumental task with the rains kicking the grass into high gear but their sweat equity and all the many who’ve also helped is the reason this festival is ready to roll.

    When you see a street crew worker this weekend, give them a wave and a big “Thank You”—they truly earned it today!

    Teamwork at Its Finest

    A setup of this scale doesn’t happen without a massive, coordinated effort across our entire community. Today, in addition to all the others who’ve helped, we want to extend our deepest gratitude and highest praise to everyone who answered the call:

    • The Sheriff’s Department & Inmate Labor: Thank you for providing indispensable muscle, heavy lifting, and logistical support over the last few days. Your hard work behind the scenes kept everything moving smoothly.
    • The Fire Department: A special tip of the hat to our firefighters! Armed with the specialized gear and trucks, they stepped up to tackle and prepare areas that were previously inaccessible, ensuring the site is 100% complete and safe for families.
    • Every City Department & Partner Organization: To every single city employee, local organization, and volunteer who has poured time, energy, and resources into this over the past several days and weeks—thank you. Your pride in our town shines through in every detail.

    See You at the Carnival! 🍉

    Thanks to this army of dedicated workers, the groundwork is laid for an unforgettable festival. Now, it’s time for all of us to enjoy the fruits of their labor!

    Grab your friends, bring the family, and come hungry. We wish everyone in our community a safe, happy, and immensely fun Watermelon Carnival!

  • Sweet Traditions: The Ultimate Guide to the 56th Annual Water Valley Watermelon Carnival

    Sweet Traditions: The Ultimate Guide to the 56th Annual Water Valley Watermelon Carnival

    Welcome to Water Valley’s Biggest Weekend of the Year!

    Summer in Mississippi is marked by sunshine, community traditions, and sweet, juicy watermelons. The 56th Annual Water Valley Watermelon Carnival returns from Thursday, July 30th through Saturday, August 1st, 2026.

    Organized by the Water Valley Area Chamber of Commerce, this three-day celebration transforms downtown Water Valley and City Park into a hub of live music, delicious food, family games, and classic Southern hospitality. Whether you are a lifelong resident or planning your very first visit, here is your complete guide to everything happening at this year’s festival.

    Editor’s Note: Mark your calendars! From high-flying watermelon drops and fireworks to live street dances, barbecue showdowns, and vintage car parades, this weekend offers something for everyone.

    A Slice of History: How the Carnival Began

    The Water Valley Watermelon Carnival is steeped in rich heritage:

    • Depression-Era Origins: The inaugural carnival was held on August 27, 1931, during the height of the Great Depression.
    • Agricultural Innovation: Seeking ways to revitalize the local economy, the Water Valley Junior Chamber of Commerce turned to the region’s thriving watermelon crops, renowned for their exceptional sweet flavor.
    • A Resurgent Tradition: After a hiatus during World War II, the festival was enthusiastically revived in 1980 and has grown into a major regional homecoming event.
    • National Recognition: Today, the festival is recognized by the Southeastern Tourism Society as one of the top 20 festivals in the southeastern United States.

    2026 Festival Schedule Breakdown

    Thursday, July 30th – Opening Night Melodies

    • 7:00 PM: Watermelon Music Festival at The Civic (Sponsored by Town and Country Garden Club). Kick off carnival weekend with an evening of live performances!

    Friday, July 31st – Street Dance, Watermelon Drop & Fireworks

    • All Day: Chamber of Commerce Booth beside the Gazebo (Official Carnival T-Shirts & Vendor Information).
    • All Day: City Park Festivities (Craft Vendors, Food Vendors, and Children’s Activities).
    • 6:00 PM:Opening Ceremonies on Central Street.
      • Invocation & Welcome: Mayor Tommy Reynolds
      • National Anthem: Lillie Faith Mathis
      • Court Presentation: Introduction of Watermelon Queen Preslee Fischer & Court
    • 6:15 PM: The Annual Watermelon Drop at the Northeast Corner of City Park (Central St. & Court St.).
    • 6:15 PM – 7:15 PM: Street Dance featuring Charlie Mars on Central Street (Sponsored by FNB-Water Valley).
    • 7:30 PM – 9:00 PM: Street Dance featuring Spunk Monkees on Central Street (Sponsored by FNB-Water Valley).
    • 9:00 PM: Fireworks Spectacular at City Park (Sponsored by BankFirst & Water Valley Area Chamber of Commerce).
    • 9:15 PM – 10:30 PM: Late-Night Street Dance featuring Spunk Monkees on Central Street (Sponsored by FNB-Water Valley).

    Saturday, August 1st – The Main Event

    The main day of the festival offers non-stop entertainment from sunrise to sunset across downtown Water Valley and City Park.

    Morning Schedule

    • 6:30 AM – 10:30 AM: Lions Club Pancake Breakfast at the Casey Jones Railroad Museum.
    • 6:30 AM: Registration for the 38th Annual 3K Walk/Run at Downtown Pavilion (Sponsored by BankFirst).
    • 7:30 AM: 38th Annual 3K Walk/Run at Railroad Park (FREE event, Sponsored by BankFirst).
    • 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM: 31st Annual Car Display at Shuffield Park (FREE event, Sponsored by Fischer Properties Team of Remax).
    • 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM: Touch-A-Truck Downtown (FREE event, Sponsored by Water Valley Area Chamber of Commerce).
    • 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM: Tasters Choice Barbecue Tickets available behind Renasant Bank (Only 100 tickets available—first come, first served!).

    Afternoon & Evening Schedule

    • 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM: Air-Conditioned Trolley Rides running every 15–20 minutes between City Park & Downtown (FREE service, Sponsored by Water Valley Area Chamber of Commerce).
    • 11:00 AM – Until: Watermelon Games at the Northeast Grass Corner of First Christian Church (FREE games conducted by the Jr. Auxiliary).
    • 11:00 AM – Until: Tasters Choice Barbecue Contest behind Renasant Bank (Buy a ticket and vote for the best dish!).
    • 1:00 PM: Free Watermelon Slices at the Southwest End of City Park (Sponsored by Cayce Washington).
    • 2:00 PM: Antique Car Parade (Cruising from Shuffield Park to City Park).
    • 5:15 PM: Train Tracks Pork Attack Barbecue Contest Winners Announced at City Park Gazebo.

    Live Music & Entertainment Schedule (Gazebo Stage)

    Keep an eye on the City Park Gazebo stage on Saturday for live local talent, hosted by Gazebo DJ & Sound Master Bobby Murphree:

    TimeEvent / ArtistHighlight
    9:00 AM – 11:00 AMTom FooleryLive Music Performance
    10:00 AMLargest Watermelons DisplayShowcase of record-setting local melons
    11:00 AM – 12:00 PMJacob KingLive Music Performance
    12:00 PMYouth Watermelon Growing ContestWinner Announcement
    12:15 PMLargest Watermelon ContestWinner Announcement
    12:30 PM – 1:30 PMPharm TruckLive Music Performance
    1:30 PM – 2:30 PMTanner MillsLive Music Performance
    2:30 PM – 3:30 PMBusiness CasualLive Music Performance
    3:30 PM – 5:00 PMCadillac FunkLive Music Performance

    Must-See Festival Highlights

    🍉 The Splat-Tacular Watermelon Drop & Giant Melons

    The ceremonial Watermelon Drop on Friday evening at 6:15 PM marks the official start of the street festivities. On Saturday, head to the Gazebo to admire the giant melons grown by local gardeners, culminating in the Youth Growing Contest and Largest Watermelon Contest announcements.

    🍖 Train Tracks Pork Attack Barbecue Contest

    Barbecue lovers won’t want to miss the annual Train Tracks Pork Attack Barbecue Cooking Contest behind Renasant Bank. A staple of the carnival that serves as an official qualifier for the world-renowned Memphis in May competition, this contest brings together skilled pitmasters. Make sure to buy a Tasters Choice Ticket at 9:00 AM on Saturday to sample the entries and cast your vote!

    🏎️ 31st Annual Car Display & Antique Parade

    Auto enthusiasts can explore dozens of classic, custom, and antique vehicles at Shuffield Park from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM, then catch them rolling down the street during the Antique Car Parade at 2:00 PM.

    Insider Tips for Visitors

    • Stay Cool: Take advantage of the Free Air-Conditioned Trolley running every 15–20 minutes between Downtown and City Park on Saturday from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM.
    • Grab Official Merch Early: Official 2026 Watermelon Carnival T-shirts and vendor info will be available all weekend at the Chamber booth next to the Gazebo.
    • Explore Downtown Water Valley: While in town, check out local shops, restaurants, and the historic Casey Jones Railroad Museum located right in the heart of downtown.

    Community & Sponsor Acknowledgments

    This event is made possible through the generous support of local businesses and community leaders:

    • Key Event Sponsors: FNB Water Valley, BankFirst, Mid-South Rehab, Solero Technologies, Renasant Bank, TVEPA, TVIFiber, Yalobusha Country Club, Fischer Properties Team of Remax, Town and Country Garden Club, Cayce & Michelle Washington, Mayor Tommy Reynolds, and the Water Valley Area Chamber of Commerce.
    • Community Partners: South Main Boutique, Oxford Healthcare Mgmt, RRP Enterprises, Blue Melon Rendezvous, Moorehead Off Road Engineering, GG’s Flowers & Gifts, The Southern Belle, Larson’s Cash Saver, Eddie & Sasha Hyde, Campbell Law Firm, Midtown Auto Parts, Memphis BBQ Network, Brandon & Katelyn Presley, Defer Law Firm, Main Street Fitness, Seven Oaks Funeral Home, Magnolia Eye Group, Turnage Drug Store, Main Street Storage, Kirk Auto Group, Black & Associates, Stroud Flechas & Dalton, Nabors Home Center, Yalobusha General Hospital & Nursing Home, Simmons House Historic Venue & Inn, Spirit Mart, Dr. Heidi Pratt, Webb Family Medical, Allied Group, and Abraham Dental.
  • A Meaningful July 4th & Time Capsule Secrets!

    A Meaningful July 4th & Time Capsule Secrets!

    Hello, Water Valley neighbors! We hope everyone had a safe, joyful, and blessed Independence Day weekend. Reflecting on everything our community shared this past Saturday, July 4th, Mayor Tommy Reynolds perfectly captured the sentiment of the entire town:

    “It was a great day today—I’ve never been to a more meaningful July 4th celebration.”   

    Reynolds offered a warm welcome to the crowd and read the first prayer of the Continental Congress penned by Rev Jacob Duche’.  The Continental Congress later adopted the Declaration of Independence.  From the deep respect paid to our nation’s history to the fascinating look back at our own local heritage, it truly was a landmark America 250 celebration for Water Valley. Here is a recap of how our community marked this historic day together! 🌟

    🎵 Patriotic Harmony & Shared History

    Our program kicked off with an unforgettable lineup of music and community reflection that celebrated the diverse fabric of our nation. 

    Joyful Voices and Moving Melodies: Effie Burt led the attendees in a deeply powerful, rendition of Lift Every Voice and Sing, and we enjoyed her beautiful solo performance of What the World Needs Now is Love.

    Sing-Alongs: Neighbors stood shoulder-to-shoulder with song sheets for America the Beautiful led by April Hammons.  Eddie Wood and Dawn Denham closed things out by leading a rousing performance of Woody Guthrie’s 1940 classic, This Land is Your Land. Fun fact (not fact checked, however) shared by our emcee: Guthrie wrote it as a response to God Bless America and penned over 300 verses! We stuck to a few selected favorites for our sing-along).

    Between the musical sets, we anchored ourselves in the foundational promises of our country. Residents led moving, shared community readings of the Declaration of Independence read by James McCormick, Mary Beth Pulsifer, Anne Winebrenner and Tommy Reynolds.  For the Bill of Rights, Jesse Gurner read the First Amendment guaranteeing freedom of the press and freedom of religion.  Chief Jason Mangrum read the second amendment guaranteeing the right to keep and bear arms.  Eddie Wood read the 3rd, 4th, and 5th amendments. Jack Williams read the 6th through the 10th amendments.  Calvin Hawkins proudly read the 13th, 14th, and 15th Amendments, honoring the abolition of slavery, the guarantee of citizenship and due process, and the protection of voting rights.

    🥁 The Parade & Community Catch-Ups

    Following the program, our streets came alive with color and pride during the official parade. Local Girl Scouts (including Nicole Folsom’s daughter in uniform!) and Cub Scouts led the way, escorting a beautiful array of flags—including the American, State, City, our historic 1976 Bicentennial flag, and the official America 250 flag!

    After the parade route (where we were very grateful for the water bottles waiting outside!), the community headed over to the Casey Jones Railroad Museum for America’s birthday cake and Cokes. It was the perfect backdrop for catching up with neighbors.

    ⏳ The 1977 Time Capsule Exhibit is Now Open!

    The newly unearthed 1977 Bicentennial Time Capsule was another major highlight of the day! As a reminder, this was recently discovered near City Hall on the electric department window side, thanks to City Clerk Vivian Snider redirecting our search.

    The Condition: While moisture had infiltrated the heavy-duty PVC capsule due to an unglued end cap, it has not dampened our community spirit. We have the original inventory list and are actively working to recreate the contents.  In addition, Grant Thompson and Jack Gurner have generously provided home movies and bicentennial slides from the 1976 parade!

    Your Summer Invitation: The original 1977 capsule and its recovered contents are currently on display at the Water Valley Railroad Museum.

    Looking Ahead: The public is warmly invited to bring items to the museum all summer long to contribute to a brand-new time capsule. We will repack it at the end of the summer and rebury it, not to be opened for another 50 years!

    🤝 A Massive Thank You to Our Sponsors

    Events like this do not happen without the incredible generosity of our local organizations. We want to extend our deepest gratitude to the sponsors who made this America 250 celebration possible:

    • Oddfellows Lodge in Water Valley
    • The Main Street Association
    • Bozart Gallery
    • The Lions Club
    • The City of Water Valley

    Thank you to everyone who organized, participated, volunteered, and attended. You made this a July 4th we will never forget.