(Miami, Florida) - June 28, 2007 will find Shenandoah Park in a flurry of red and green when 8 tons of watermelons fill the park for the first ever Watermelon Family Festival, sponsored by the City of Miami Parks and Recreation Department. 

Everything watermelon will be in the park from seed spitting contests, watermelon rolling races, ice cold slices of watermelon and watermelon eating contests for adults and kids. Those who want to cool off from the summer heat will be able to take a swim in the pool or take a turn at the slip ‘n slide. 

In the arts and craft area children will be able to make watermelon maracas or color a watermelon cartoon. For those interested in taking home a watermelon they can plant a watermelon seed and hope to see it grow. Participants will be able to sport a watermelon tattoo (temporary of course) and have their face painted like a watermelon and are encouraged to come dressed as a watermelon. 

“We like to bring original events to the city and this is the first of its kind, a celebration of watermelon, the quintessential summer fruit” said Ernest Burkeen, Director of Parks and Recreation. “Nothing taste better on a hot evening than ice cold watermelon so why not have fun with it.”

Live entertainment will be provided by local honky tonk, rockabilly band “The 18 Wheelers.” Hay rides, three legged races, tug –o-war and relay races will also be held during the event. 

Residents are invited to bring lawn chairs and picnic blankets and enjoy a family friendly free event in the park. For more information they can call (305) 416-1341 or (305) 856-9551.