Jacksonville Tomato Fest: East Texas’ Juiciest Tradition

Every June, Jacksonville, Texas—once crowned the Tomato Capital of the World—throws a party for its favorite fruit. The Jacksonville Tomato Fest transforms downtown into a celebration of farming heritage, food, and small-town fun. With contests, live music, and plenty of fresh tomatoes, it’s one of East Texas’ most flavorful summer traditions.

A Juicy Legacy

Jacksonville didn’t earn its tomato crown by accident. In the early 1900s, farmers across Cherokee County discovered that the area’s sandy, well-drained soils were ideal for tomato production. At the same time, the arrival of railroads and refrigerated rail cars made it possible to ship tomatoes long distances while they ripened in transit .

By the 1920s and 1930s, nearly 15,000 acres of tomatoes were under cultivation in the county, and about 3,000 rail carsof tomatoes left Jacksonville each summer for markets nationwide.

Tomatoes were far more profitable than cotton—bringing in roughly $250 per acre compared to cotton’s $20–40. No wonder the city embraced its new identity and launched its first Tomato Festival in 1934.

That agricultural heritage still runs deep. Jacksonville even named its WPA-built high school football stadium the Tomato Bowl (completed in 1940), a red iron-ore stone landmark that still serves as a civic icon.

When & Where

1. Date: The festival takes place annually on the second Saturday in June .
2. Location: Historic downtown Jacksonville, centered on Commerce Street between Austin and Bolton .
3. Admission: Free to attend; some activities and contests may have small entry fees .

Festival Highlights

🍅 Farmers Market & Fresh Tomatoes

Local growers bring their best to market—heirloom varieties, baskets of ripe red fruit, and tomato-inspired products that showcase Jacksonville’s agricultural pride.

🎉 Tomato-Themed Contests

The competitions are equal parts quirky and competitive:

1. Tomato Eating Contest
2. Salsa Making & Tasting
3. Tomato Peeling Challenge

These events draw big crowds and plenty of laughs .

🚗 Car Shows, Crafts & Community Talent

Alongside tomato events, you’ll find a classic car show, arts and crafts vendors, and a hometown “Got Talent” showcase that adds to the festival’s all-ages appeal .

🎶 Live Music & Family Fun

Multiple stages feature local performers throughout the day, while kid-friendly activities keep younger visitors entertained .

Tips for Visitors

1. Catch the Contests: The tomato-eating competition is a crowd favorite, and spots fill quickly. If you want to participate, sign up early at the Chamber booth.
2. Photo Op at the Tomato Bowl: Even if you’re not catching a game, the historic 1940 WPA-built stadium is worth a stop for pictures—it’s one of the most unique high school stadiums in Texas .
3. Don’t Skip the Salsa: The salsa-tasting contest is a hidden gem. Bring small bills for tasting tickets, and be ready for everything from classic red to creative fruit blends.
4. Parking Strategy: Downtown streets fill fast. Many visitors park at nearby schools or churches and walk in—wear comfy shoes and plan for a short stroll.
5. Bring a Cooler: If you want to take home farm-fresh tomatoes, a small cooler in your car will keep them from spoiling in the Texas heat.
6. Stay Late for Music: While mornings are cooler for shopping, the evening music lineup often draws locals out for dancing and socializing—worth staying for if you can.

Why It Matters

Tomato Fest isn’t just a street fair—it’s a living reminder of Jacksonville’s agricultural roots. The event honors the growers who once made East Texas famous for tomatoes, while inviting today’s visitors to savor that same pride in fresh, seasonal food.

And the timing couldn’t be better: early June is peak tomato season in East Texas, when the fruit is at its sweetest and juiciest.

Bottom Line

From ripe summer tomatoes to quirky contests and lively music, Jacksonville Tomato Fest is a slice of East Texas you’ll want to taste for yourself. Whether you’re a local, a day-tripper, or just curious about the state’s farm festivals, this annual celebration proves that tomatoes really can bring a whole town together.

Also Read:

1. 🍅 Why Do Tomatoes Taste Better in Summer?
2. 💧 Hydroponics vs. Field Flavor: What the Science Really Says About Tomatoes
3. 🎉 Explore more local traditions in our Agritourism History & Culture collection — from mushroom festivals to peach parades.

References

1. Texas Highways (May 2019). The Texas Basket Company is a Century-Long Link to Jacksonville’s Tomato Capital Heritage.
2. Texas Co-op Power (July 2024). Culling Time. 
3. Explore Jacksonville, TX. Annual Tomato Fest. 
4. Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce. Tomato Fest.