North Carolina Watermelon Queen

Meet the 2026 North Carolina Watermelon Queen – Miss Lilah Byrum

Miss Byrum was selected by a panel of distinguished judges as the 2026 North Carolina Watermelon Queen during the 43rd Annual North Carolina Watermelon Association Convention.

Lilah is the daughter of Andrew and Tammi Byrum of Tyner, North Carolina. She is currently pursuing a degree in Crop and Soil Sciences with a concentration in Agronomy at North Carolina State University. Throughout both her high school and collegiate career, Lilah has held numerous leadership positions within a variety of organizations. She currently serves as Secretary of the NCSU Agronomy Club and will begin serving as a Crop and Soil Sciences Ambassador and Peer Career Coach for the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences this fall. Her commitment to agriculture has earned her the prestigious FFA Old North State Degree. Lilah's interests include a diverse array of activities, most notably showing livestock through 4-H and participating in the North Carolina State Fair. She is also passionate about working cattle on her family's farm, an experience that fostered her involvement in numerous agricultural organizations.

Beyond her engagement in agriculture, Lilah enjoys painting for both personal enjoyment and commissioned projects. She also loves hunting and fishing, taking every opportunity to spend time outdoors, where she finds fulfillment and appreciation for nature. Upon graduation, Lilah plans to pursue a career in agricultural sales and consulting or continue her education through graduate studies in agronomic research. Her goal is to work directly with crop producers and support farmers in their ever-demanding profession.

As North Carolina Watermelon Queen, Lilah will advocate for the state's agricultural industry while highlighting the important contributions of North Carolina watermelon growers. Her enthusiasm for agriculture, paired with her effective communication skills, enables her to effectively represent the association and its mission. She is dedicated to promoting the significance of watermelon farming while fostering meaningful connections between growers and consumers. Throughout her tenure, Lilah will promote North Carolina watermelons across the state and nation through appearances at retail outlets, festivals, farmers markets, educational programs, and industry events. She will hold the title for one year and represent the North Carolina Watermelon Association at the 2027 National Watermelon Association Convention in Las Vegas, Nevada.

When asked why she would like to serve as the Public Relations Representative for the North Carolina Watermelon Association, Lilah responded: "Being selected as the 2026 North Carolina Watermelon Queen allows me the opportunity to meet new people, promote agriculture, and gain greater insight into the watermelon industry. North Carolina agriculture is exceptionally diverse, not only in what is produced but also in the people who make it possible. Having grown up around cattle and row crops, I recognize the importance of understanding all facets of agriculture to effectively advocate for our industry. Serving as Watermelon Queen presents a unique opportunity that differs from my usual experiences, and it would be an honor to represent North Carolina agriculture in this capacity. I believe every person you meet offers a valuable perspective, and I am eager to learn from the dedicated members of the watermelon industry while hopefully making a positive impact on their lives as well. It would be a privilege to represent an industry rooted in tradition, hard work, and community."

As North Carolina Watermelon Queen, Lilah will advocate for the state’s agricultural industry and highlight the important contributions of North Carolina watermelons. Her enthusiasm for agriculture, paired with effective communication skills, enables her to effectively represent the association and its mission. She is dedicated to promoting the significance of watermelon farming and agriculture, while facilitating meaningful connections between growers and consumers.

Throughout her tenure as North Carolina Watermelon Queen, Lilah will promote North Carolina watermelons across the state and nation at retail outlets, festivals, farmers markets, and various events. She will hold this title for one year and represent the North Carolina Watermelon Association at the 2027 National Watermelon Association Convention in Las Vegas, Nevada.