It’s the peak of summer and the perfect time to enjoy a refreshing summer Southern staple—the satisfying watermelon!
National Watermelon Day on August 3 recognizes the refreshing summertime treat enjoyed at picnics and fairs across the country. This vine-like flowering plant originated from southern Africa. While the watermelon fruit is loosely considered a type of melon, unlike other melons, it’s not in the genus Cucumis. The smooth exterior usually produces a dark green rind with stripes or yellow spots. Watermelons produce a juicy, sweet interior flesh ranging from deep red to pink, and are 92% water.
With proper growing conditions, watermelons grow to enormous sizes. Around the world, competitions award prizes each year for the largest one. The Guinness Book of World Records states that the heaviest watermelon weighed 262 pounds!
HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL WATERMELON DAY
While you are celebrating the day, spread the joy! Visit a pick your own watermelon patch or pick one up from your local farmer’s market. Then, slice it up and invite the neighborhood over to share. Make a fruit salad or cut it into wedges. Try these other fun ways to celebrate the day, too!
