Miss Lilah Byrum

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

Lilah is the daughter of Andrew and Tammi Byrum from Tyner, North Carolina. She is currently pursuing a degree in Crop and Soil Science at North Carolina State University.

During both her high school and collegiate career, Lilah has held numerous leadership roles within a variety of organizations. Presently, she serves as the NCSU Agri-Life Representative for Collegiate Young Farmers and Ranchers and holds the position of Secretary for the NCSU Agronomy Club. Her commitment to agriculture has earned her the FFA Old North State Degree.

Lilahs interests include a diverse array of activities, 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 multiple agricultural organizations. Beyond her engagement in agriculture, Lilah enjoys hunting and fishing, taking every opportunity to spend time outdoors where she finds personal fulfillment in nature.

Upon graduation, Lilah intends 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 as their profession faces increasing demands.

When asked why she would like to serve as the Public Relations Representative for the North Carolina Watermelon Association, Lilah responded:

"I aspire to be selected as the 2026 North Carolina Watermelon Queen in order to meet new people, promote, and gain greater insight into the watermelon industry. North Carolina agriculture is exceptionally diverse, not only in what is produced but also among its people. Having grown up around cattle and row crops, I recognize the importance of understanding all facets of agriculture to best advocate for them. Serving as Watermelon Queen presents a unique opportunity distinct from my usual experiences, and it would be an honor to represent North Carolina agriculture in this capacity. I believe everyone you encounter provides valuable perspective, and I am eager to benefit from interactions with the dedicated members of the watermelon industry, while hopefully having a positive influence on their lives. It would be a privilege to represent an industry rooted in tradition and hard work."

As North Carolina Watermelon Queen, Lilah will advocate for the states 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.