Competitors prepare for the start of a heat during the Watermelon Bathtub Races at the 2024 Hermiston Melon Fest. Registration is open for this year’s races, which will be Aug. 22, 2026, in downtown Hermiston. (Lukes Photos/Contributed Photo) (Lukes Photos/Contributed Photo)HERMISTON — With the Hermiston Melon Fest just around the corner, it’s time to start putting together your best watermelon contest. In addition, registration is open for the Watermelon Bathtub Races — teams of three will splish and splash their way through the course while competing against other teams. Hermiston Melon Fest runs from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 22, on Festival Street in downtown Hermiston.