Why Houston Area Locals Are Making the Drive to DiIorio's Farmers Market in Hempstead for Their First Bite of Summer
Every Texan knows that summer truly begins with the first bite of sweet, sun-ripened watermelon. For many families in Cypress and Northwest Houston, that first bite is worth a short country drive—especially when it comes from DiIorio's Farmers Market in Hempstead. The beloved family-owned market just announced the arrival of their highly anticipated homegrown watermelons, and they’re as sweet as ever.
“BREAKING NEWS from DiIorio's Farmers Market!” read the farm’s social media post. “The wait is OVER — our Home Grown Watermelons will officially be HERE THIS WEEKEND and they’re sweeter than ever!”
It’s an announcement that long-time fans wait for every year, and this weekend marks the start of a flavorful tradition that stretches back generations.
From Roadside Stand to Local Legend
DiIorio's Farmers Market has deep roots in the Hempstead soil. What started in 1956 as a humble roadside fruit stand by brothers Nick and Billy DiIorio has blossomed into one of the region’s most iconic farmers markets. By 1968, the family expanded the operation into a full-fledged market, and today, the third and fourth generations—including Michael and David DiIorio—continue the legacy.
The farm’s mission is simple: bring people together through fresh, honest food and time-honored hospitality. But there’s something special about how they do it. From rows of ripening melons to their vast, open-air market filled with locally grown produce, handmade jams, and garden plants, DiIorio's Farmers Market has become more than just a place to shop—it’s a place to slow down, savor, and smile.
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Why Hempstead Watermelons Are Worth the Trip
Hempstead isn’t just some lucky spot on the map. It’s the Watermelon Capital of Texas, known for its sandy soil and perfect growing conditions that give watermelons their famously crisp texture and candy-like sweetness. At one time, this small town was the largest shipper of watermelons in the United States. That legacy lives on in the fields of DiIorio's Farmers Market.
What sets DiIorio’s melons apart? They’re grown there in Hempstead, harvested at peak ripeness, and sliced within hours—if not minutes—of being picked. There’s no shipping, no middleman, and no guessing. It’s just sunshine, soil, and the DiIorio family’s generations of farming know-how.
A Sweet Event for the Whole Family
To celebrate the arrival of their seasonal stars, DiIorio's Farmers Market hosted a special kickoff event over the weekend, inviting families out for a Facebook Live watermelon cutting with owners Michael and David. Attendees—especially the little ones—enjoyed free slices of the juicy treat straight from the field.
“Bring your little ones to join in the fun for some free slices of watermelon,” the DiIorio team wrote in their announcement. “Whether you’re slicing ‘em up for the kids, chilling one for your next BBQ, or just craving a juicy bite of summer — come grab yours while they’re in stock!”
The event added an extra touch of charm, giving kids and adults alike a chance to connect with where their food comes from, meet the farmers behind the produce, and make memories in the warm Texas sun.
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More Than Melons: A Country Market Experience
While the watermelons are undoubtedly the star of summer, DiIorio's Farmers Market offers a full range of seasonal fruits and vegetables, from peaches and tomatoes to locally jarred jams, garden plants, and even handmade outdoor furniture. The open-air market is fan-cooled, family-run, and brimming with small-town charm.
For those looking to escape the city hustle, the 45-minute drive from Cypress or Northwest Houston feels less like an errand and more like a mini getaway. Visitors often stay to stroll through the aisles, chat with the friendly staff, and load up their baskets with goodies grown just steps away.
A Slice of Summer, A Taste of Texas
DiIorio's Farmers Market is more than a destination—it’s a summer tradition woven into the fabric of local life. It’s where generations of Texans have introduced their children to the taste of real, homegrown watermelon. Where neighbors meet, stories are shared, and families take a pause to enjoy the season’s sweetest moments.
Whether you're prepping for a backyard barbecue or just craving a taste of nostalgia, now is the time to make the short drive. Just follow U.S. 290 west towards Austin, and keep an eye out for the DiIorio's Farmers Market signs guiding you to the FM 359 exit just outside of Hempstead—it’s officially watermelon season at DiIorio's Farmers Market.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.