About This Event
The sweetest Saturday of summer.
Every August, Dallas Farmers Market's Watermelon Day turns The Shed into a celebration of Texas summer produce. Texas farmers bring their best melons to the market, and the whole community shows up for the sampling, the specials, and the kids activities. Admission is always free.
It's one of DFM's most beloved annual traditions — a morning that starts with a cold slice of watermelon handed directly from a Texas grower and ends with a reusable bag full of the season's best produce. Come hungry, come early, and bring the kids.
The Market Building is open simultaneously with Hurtado Barbecue, Crav, and the full roster of indoor tenants — so after the morning market, step inside for air conditioning and a full lunch.
What's Happening
Seed to smile.
- Watermelon sampling — Texas Shed producers bring cut melons to taste at their stalls, free while supplies last. Look for the green-and-red bunting at participating stands.
- Summer produce specials — Vendors throughout The Shed offer day-of pricing on peak-season items: peaches, melons, peppers, squash, and more. Best selection arrives early.
- Kids seed spitting contest — 10am at the center stage, ages 4–12. No registration needed. Ribbons for longest spit, most creative form, and best sportsmanship.
- Face painting for kids — 11am–1pm at the south end of The Shed. Free, first come first served. Watermelon slices, sunflowers, and summer themes.
- Live acoustic music — Local musicians play through midday in the covered Shed area. Easy listening, nothing too loud — good background for shopping.
- Watermelon carving demo — A market staff member demonstrates decorative carving techniques at the info booth. Starts at noon, takes about 30 minutes.
What to Bring
A few things that help.
- Sunscreen and a hat. The Shed is a covered outdoor market, but August in Dallas is no joke. Dress for the heat.
- Reusable bags or a cart. Whole melons are heavy and worth carrying home. Most produce vendors sell bags on-site, but bring your own if you can.
- Cash or card. Most Shed vendors accept both. SNAP / EBT is also accepted — stop at the market info booth to exchange tokens before you shop.
- Kids welcome. The seed spitting contest starts at 10am sharp. Face painting runs 11am–1pm. No pre-registration needed for either activity.
- Dogs on leash. Leashed, friendly dogs are welcome in The Shed. The Market Building is air-conditioned and dog-free indoors.
- Arrive by 10am for the best watermelon selection. Sampling goes fast and several of the most popular varieties sell out before noon.