A 19-year-old from Perquimans County has been crowned the 2026 North Carolina Watermelon Queen, bringing some royal recognition to our corner of northeastern North Carolina. Lilah Byrum earned the title at the N.C. Watermelon Association Convention held February 13-14 in Wrightsville Beach. Byrum, who's currently a student at N.C. State University, will represent the state's watermelon industry throughout her reign. The annual convention brings together growers, industry professionals, and supporters from across North Carolina to celebrate one of the state's sweetest agricultural products. Perquimans County, known for its rich farming heritage and scenic Albemarle Sound coastline, now has a royal representative showcasing North Carolina's agricultural traditions. As Watermelon Queen, Byrum will likely make appearances at festivals, agricultural events, and other gatherings throughout the year to promote the industry and the fruit that makes summer a little sweeter across the state.