Summer is flying by! Memorial Day feels like it was just yesterday, Independence Day has passed, and as we await Labor Day, what do we do during the dog days of summer? If you’re anything like me, you’re craving a sweet, refreshing release from these doggone dog days. You need something to sink your teeth into (literally), something refreshing, an escape from this ungodly heat. So, how does watermelon sound? Great, right! And what goes better with watermelon, than Gallagher!
Ybor City Melonfest is Aug. 12 from 1 p.m to 8 p.m. in Ybor City. Find this melon-centric party on the festival grounds of the historic Centro Asturiano de Tampa, located at 1913 N. Nebraska Avenue and Palm Avenue, just minutes from exit #1 on I-4.
The Watermelon Festival with More
With a name like “Melonfest,” it’s no wonder this festival features none other than Tampa’s very own watermelon-smashing funnyman, Leo Gallagher. Alongside Artie Fletcher, Gallagher will be up to his old antics, smashing melons as part of his signature Sledge-O-Matic show, and The Joke’s On You Comedy Tour.
Comedy Won’t be the Only Thing to Enjoy at Melonfest.
Enjoy live music from Robby Steinhardt (formerly of Kansas), as he plays bonafide hits like “Dust in the Wind” and “Carry On Wayward Son” beginning at 5:30 pm. Stormbringer takes the stage from 2:30 p.m. to 5:00 pm, covering hits from Journey, Pink Floyd, Queen, Boston and more. DJ Anthony Barcelo will host, and perform between sets.
Photo Credit: Ribfest.org Cover Photo Credit Gallagher Smash
Look for several food trucks and restaurants in Ybor City to serve gourmet dishes in conjunction with Melonfest. And, oh yeah, the melons…you can participate in fun watermelon activities and partake in a watermelon cocktail or two from the full bar.
Most importantly, admission is FREE (food and drinks are extra). So bring your friends and family, climb a rock wall, experience the shark tank, jump in the bounce houses, and perhaps get 'Sledge-O' Matic'd. You can bring your pet and lounge in the pet tent or relax in the A/C tent. Seating should not be an issue, so pull up a table and spend the day watching, playing, laughing and enjoying Melonfest in Ybor City this August.
Watermelon, music, food, drinks, and fun for the whole family…sounds like a recipe for a sweet escape! For VIP, vendor, and sponsorship packages, call (941) 587-8365. Then register on 813area and 727area to stay connected to everything local. We keep you informed of fun things to do in Tampa and Tampa's top events.
