Welcome to the Virginia Cantaloupe Festival, Halifax County’s most anticipated event of the summer! Prepare yourself for a night filled with friends, food, festivities, and sweet cantaloupes. Celebrating its 45th year, the “Lope Fest” as it’s locally known has become a beloved tradition among both residents and visitors.
The Halifax Cantaloupe
You may be wondering: what makes these cantaloupes so special? The county’s loamy soil and perfect climate produced melons so large that they couldn’t fit into shipping bins for grocery stores. In the 1960s, Turbeville cantaloupes gained legendary status. This recognition led to them being sought after by hotels and restaurants from Chicago to New York. Today, these delicious melons ripen on the vine, boasting a combination of sweetness, juiciness, and a distinct aroma.
History of the Festival
Initially conceived in 1980 as a fundraising event, The Halifax County Chamber of Commerce and the Turbeville Cantaloupe Growers Association, the Virginia Cantaloupe Festival celebrated our renowned local cantaloupes. Since its humble beginnings on local farmland, the festival has featured live music, produce, and good times with friends and family. Today, the Virginia Cantaloupe Festival has evolved into a regional event, welcoming visitors from across the state.
Tickets
For an inclusive price of $40, attendees gain access to the festival grounds at Berry Hill Resort and enjoy unlimited beverages. This includes beer (craft and domestic), wine, seltzers, soft drinks, and water. The ticket also covers servings of Reese Farms’ Halifax County Cantaloupes, roasted corn, and ice cream provided by D&D Skins (Pro Tip: Enjoy the ice cream with the cantaloupe!) Meals can be purchased separately from a wide array of food trucks. In the past, the festival has had mouthwatering options such as lobster rolls, empanadas, BBQ and more.
Don’t wait – ticket prices increase to $45 starting July 1st!
Live Entertainment
Continuing tradition, this year’s festival has live music. The night will begin with radio morning show host, Mike Brooks, who will MC/DJ the beginning of the festival. At 7:30, SupaFly Five Band takes the stage. These seasoned musicians bring high energy and a variety of genres sure to have you singing along and dancing the night away!
Virginia Cantaloupe Festival 2026
The 2026 Virginia Cantaloupe Festival is proudly hosted by the Halifax County Chamber of Commerce. The event will be held on the lawn of beautiful Berry Hill Resort. Secure your advanced tickets for $40 at the Chamber of Commerce, through their online platform, or the visitor center. The festival always sells out, so be sure to buy your tickets in advance. You don’t miss out on this annual tradition that brings together the best of Halifax County’s summer offerings!
Pictures courtesy Halifax County Chamber of Commerce/Virginia Cantaloupe Festival.
