Good morning, Greenville.

The Winterville Watermelon Festival returns for its 40th year from Thursday, August 21 through Sunday, August 24 — the event will include a parade, carnival rides, a watermelon eating contest, local vendors, and live music with Tracy Byrd headlining.

Organizers plan a four-day celebration with activities for the whole family.

Businesses in Winterville will host a scavenger hunt on July 17 using the Goosechase app to earn points by visiting local stores.

Participants will complete tasks like checking in via GPS and snapping selfies at businesses — winners will receive prizes such as gift cards and t-shirts — with further rounds planned for August, September and October.

A Pitt County man pleaded guilty to his role in a 2024 shooting where residences were hit by gunfire+ he faces up to 41 months in prison.

Local farmers say the summer heat and heavy rains are hurting tobacco fields in Pitt County—the roots are drowned and the plants weighed down.

Field Crops Agent Jonathan Smith said while peanuts, soybeans, and other crops benefit from the moisture, farmers and agents will meet soon to plan next steps—cautiously watching for drought.

Pitt County Schools are nearly finished installing new vape detectors in bathrooms and locker rooms to help stop vaping by alerting staff when smoke is detected.

The $140,000 system—funded by a Juul settlement—can distinguish between nicotine and THC and will result in harsher penalties for THC vaping.

Pitt County celebrates National Park and Recreation Month by hosting ribbon cutting ceremonies — unveiling its new community centers and expanded programming for residents of all ages and abilities.

A grand open house is scheduled for August 12 and August 13 — residents can reserve spots by contacting Cultural Arts and Recreation.

Robinson and Scully, two incumbents running for reelection to the Greenville City Council, said they are ready to continue serving after the filing period completed its third day on Wednesday — they plan to keep supporting local government.

A Tribute to The Doors

8-9:30 p.m. — The State Theatre — Check the event page for pricing — Experience the authentic sound of The Doors with The Ultimate Doors tribute band.

Greenville Unplugged: TCG & Collectibles Convention

9 a.m.-5 p.m. — Greenville North Carolina Convention Center — Admission fee varies — Enjoy epic TCG tournaments and local collectible vendors while supporting Extra Life with raffles.

2025 Little League Softball® World Series

August 3 – 10 — Stallings Stadium at Elm Street Park — Admission varies — Experience the excitement of youth sports at the premier softball event in Greenville.

2025 Greenville NC Comic Con

7 AM – 5 PM — Greenville North Carolina Convention Center — Check social media for updates — Celebrate pop culture and meet fellow comic enthusiasts in this vibrant convention.