Cordele, Georgia, has grabbed national attention as Southern Living magazine spotlights it as the Watermelon Capital of the World. This small town in Crisp County, known for its juicy melons and farming heritage, drew praise in a June 2025 feature for its vibrant festivals, scenic spots, and massive watermelon harvests that ship nationwide.
Why Cordele Earns the Watermelon Crown
Cordele’s title as Watermelon Capital stems from its ideal growing conditions, including hot dry nights and sandy soil that produce the sweetest melons. Farmers here harvest over 200 million pounds annually, making it a key player in Georgia’s agriculture scene.
Recent data from 2024 shows Georgia led the U.S. with 6.65 million hundredweight of watermelons, much of it from Crisp County. This output supports local jobs and boosts the economy, with watermelons joining cotton, peanuts, and pecans as top crops.
The town’s claim faced challenges in the 1990s from places like Hope, Arkansas, but Cordele won out after taste tests proved its melons superior in crispness and flavor.
Southern Living’s Fresh Take on Cordele
In its June 2025 article, Southern Living called Cordele a hidden gem just two hours south of Atlanta. The piece highlights the town’s rural charm, wide fields, and how it ships watermelons across the region.
Writers noted the area’s health benefits too, like watermelons being 90% water and packed with nutrients that fight inflammation and aid digestion. This nod from a major publication has sparked interest among travelers seeking authentic Southern experiences.
Local officials welcomed the spotlight, saying it honors the hardworking farmers who drive the industry. The feature ties into broader trends of celebrating farm-to-table stories in 2025.
Top Events and Festivals in Cordele
Cordele’s Watermelon Days Festival stands out as a must-visit event. Held annually in June, it’s Georgia’s oldest festival and draws crowds for family fun, music, and melon-themed activities.
The 2025 edition featured arts and crafts at Georgia Veterans State Park, live entertainment, and a queen pageant on May 10. Visitors enjoyed seed-spitting contests and vendor booths from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Other highlights include:
- Vintage train rides on the SAM Shortline Excursion Train, offering scenic views of farmland.
- Golfing at the Lake Blackshear Resort, with its memorial course honoring veterans.
- Races at the newly renovated Cordele Motor Speedway, which got major upgrades in 2024.
A May 2025 podcast by Georgia Public Broadcasting explored how watermelons shape the local economy and culture, interviewing growers and experts.
Beyond Melons: What Makes Cordele Special
Cordele offers more than fruit. As the county seat with about 10,000 residents, it’s a gateway to south Georgia, sitting 140 miles south of Atlanta and near the Florida line.
History buffs can visit the Titan I Missile Monument or explore Georgia Veterans Memorial State Park, which includes a museum and lake activities. The park ties into Cordele’s past as a temporary Confederate capital in 1864 during the Civil War.
Recent developments include infrastructure boosts, like the speedway’s 2024 makeover by new owners, adding modern facilities for racing fans.
| Attraction | Description | Best Time to Visit |
|---|---|---|
| Watermelon Days Festival | Family events, food, and entertainment celebrating the harvest | June |
| Georgia Veterans State Park | Lakeside recreation, military history exhibits, and boating | Year-round, peak in summer |
| SAM Shortline Train | Vintage rail tours through countryside | Weekends, check schedules |
| Cordele Motor Speedway | Auto racing events with recent upgrades | Racing season, spring to fall |
Economic Impact and Future Outlook
Watermelons fuel Cordele’s economy, creating jobs in farming, shipping, and tourism. In 2024, Georgia’s melon production hit record highs, contributing millions to the state’s top industry, agriculture.
Experts predict growth in 2025, with sustainable farming practices gaining traction. Local leaders aim to expand festivals and attract more visitors, building on Southern Living’s buzz.
Challenges like weather variability persist, but innovations in irrigation and crop management help. This resilience keeps Cordele thriving as a symbol of Southern agriculture.
Health Perks and Fun Facts About Watermelons
Watermelons pack a punch beyond taste. They’re low-calorie, hydrating, and rich in vitamins A and C, supporting heart health and skin.
Fun facts include the world record melon at 350.5 pounds, grown in Tennessee. In Cordele, locals swear by their homegrown varieties for superior sweetness.
Pair them with summer barbecues or salads for a healthy twist. As trends lean toward fresh produce in 2025, Cordele’s melons fit perfectly into wellness routines.
Share your thoughts on Cordele’s watermelon fame or your favorite melon recipe in the comments below. If this story sparked your interest, pass it along to friends planning a Georgia road trip.
