The Hempstead Commerce & Civic Association hosts its 36th annual Watermelon Festival Car Show on July 18, 2026, in Hempstead, Texas. Participants will join the Parade of Cars leading the Watermelon Festival Parade. Staging begins at 8 a.m. at the BBQ Store (Old Lawrence Marshall) located at 850 Bus Hwy 6 & Hwy 290, with departure at 8:45 a.m. Car display runs from 9 a.m. until completion. Trophies will be awarded for People’s Choice, Best of Show, Best Traditional/Rat, Best Paint, Best Engine, Best Truck, Best Low Rider, Best Top Ten, and Judges Award of Merit. A 50/50 raffle will be held. Trophy awards and raffle drawing take place at 1 p.m. Shaded seating is available. For more information, contact Dallas Doyle at 713-724-0057 or 936-900-2150, or email [email protected].
