The Franklin County Chamber of Commerce’s Watermelon Festival committee has been busy in recent months preparing for the annual event that is always one of the county’s highlights each year.

Chamber director Cassie Medley said they are excited to announce that the entertainment for this year’s festival has been confirmed, with a nationally known artist set to headline the event.

Medley said that successful country artist Sammy Kershaw will be this year’s headliner for the Watermelon Festival and it’s something the committee is very excited about.

“Sammy Kershaw headlining at this year’s Watermelon Festival is especially exciting because he is known all over the country,” Medley said.

“It is great to know that everyone has the opportunity to hear Sammy Kershaw, as well as our other great performers, for free. The Chamber strives to make the Watermelon Festival entertainment the best while giving back to the county by not charging admission.

“Sammy Kershaw headlining at the Watermelon Festival would not have happened without the generosity of two local businessmen teaming up with the Chamber. Trent Stephenson with Stephenson Electric and Corey Jackson with Affordable Service Heating and Air Conditioning offered their financial support to make Sammy Kershaw possible, and we appreciate them very much. Franklin County is truly blessed with amazing talent and generous citizens.”

Medley said she was also excited about the new format for the Watermelon Festival’s Friday night entertainment line-up.

“The Watermelon Festival has always showcased the amazing talent in Franklin County, but this year we wanted to highlight our own hometown talent with a special designation,” she said.

“The Watermelon Festival committee decided to name Friday “Franklin County Friday Night” and it will give the area a chance to hear the amazing talent of our county.”

According to the official line-up, entertainment for “Franklin County Friday Night” will include Purpose, REWIND of the Shoals, and the Kerry Gilbert Band.

But Medley said local talent won’t be limited to Friday night since local performers will be mixed in during the Saturday line-up as well. Performers for Saturday include Joseph Baldwin, Tremayne, Dixie Mafia and The Springs.

“The Chamber is excited about this year’s entertainment because of the wide range of genres that will offer something for everyone to enjoy,” Medley said.

“It is the Chamber’s goal to make this year’s Watermelon Festival the best yet, and I think we are off to a great start with our entertainment line-up.”