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Memorial Day weekend is upon us, a treasured holiday that invites us to honor the brave men and women who gave their lives in service to our nation, remember those who we lost, while also ushering in the joys of summer. As you fire up the grill, head out on the water, or let the kids dart through our splash pads, I ask you to keep safety at the forefront so every moment is remembered for all the right reasons.
Kicking off on Friday evening is one of my favorite downtown traditions, 4th Friday! From six until nine o’clock, the Nerd Market, a pop-up paradise for comic-book collectors, fantasy enthusiasts, and anyone who simply enjoys seeing creativity will be on full display. As you stroll past vendor tables brimming with action figures, original artwork, and memorabilia, you’ll hear the unmistakable beats of DJ G-Moniy drifting from the Cool Spring Downtown District office. That’s also where aspiring superheroes, anime icons, and video-game legends can sign up—first come, first served—for our family-friendly cosplay contest.
You will find bounce houses, games, and live performances, while food-truck aromas wind their way along Green and Gillespie Streets. Art lovers can wander an informal gallery walk; rhythm seekers can join the drum circle; and three separate pop-up markets will round out the evening’s discoveries. If you plan to wear a costume, please remember that props resembling real weapons are not allowed, closed-toe shoes are required, and respectful attire keeps the event enjoyable for all ages. Questions about what’s permitted can be directed to the Downtown District team at 910-223-1089.
Once the glow of 4th Friday subsides, our thoughts turn to the long Memorial Day weekend, many of you will gather around grills or let youngsters laugh beneath the spray of our splash pads, and I would be remiss if I didn’t share a few words of caution born from experience and reinforced by Fire Chief Kevin Dove.
If you’re lighting charcoal or propane, please position your grill away from siding, railings, and overhanging branches, give every valve and hose a quick inspection, and keep a fire extinguisher within arm’s reach. Remember that Fayetteville-Cumberland Parks and Recreation keeps fourteen splash pads running dawn to dusk, absolutely free, while our city pools open for the season on Monday, May 26 with lifeguards and extended holiday hours. Whether you’re wading or swimming laps, a few extra seconds of vigilance can prevent needless heartache.
Fayetteville’s strength has always resided in its people. Our creativity, our compassion, and our willingness to look out for one another is prevalent. I hope to see your costumes brightening downtown on Friday night and your families enjoying a safe, reflective Memorial Day weekend in the days that follow. Thank you for everything you do to keep our city vibrant, welcoming, and secure.
Best,
Dr. Douglas J. Hewett
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