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Here in America’s “Can Do” City, this week is a reminder of how Fayetteville shows up for one another—celebrating service, lifting up causes, and recognizing partners who make our community stronger. Looking to this weekend, it is packed with ways to get outside, learn something new, and enjoy Fayetteville together.
Start your Saturday stroll at the City Market at the Museum, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., on the grounds of the Fayetteville History Museum at 325 Franklin Street. You’ll find seasonal produce, baked treats, and maker booths. While you’re downtown, the Dogwood Fall Festival returns all weekend, filling the streets and Festival Park with live music, food trucks, rides, and vendors. It’s one of our signature fall traditions and a great meet-up spot for neighbors and friends.
As evening falls, lean into spooky season with the Fayetteville Ghost Walk. Guides share haunted tales and curious lore as you wind through the heart of downtown; tours typically meet at 120 Hay St. at 8 p.m. and is recommended for adults and older kids. These are easy ways to support local while soaking up the crisp October air.
In celebration of Great Trails State Day, we have four fantastic paths right here in Fayetteville to explore. Cross Creek Linear Park offers a scenic 2.8-mile route from Festival Park to Riverside Dog Park. For a shorter stroll, try the border trail at Lake Rim Park or if you’re training for distance, the Cape Fear River Trail winds for more than seven miles along the river from Jordan Soccer Complex and connects with Cross Creek Linear Park. Cyclists can also tackle the 12-mile Cape Fear Mountain Bike Trail, easily accessed about a mile north of Clark Park, and it’s great for hikers, too. Share your adventure by tagging #GreatTrailsStateDay and #FayettevilleNC.
Each fall, our City team rallies behind the United Way of Cumberland County and this year’s giving campaign runs Monday, Oct. 20 through Monday, Nov. 17. We encourage all our residents to give if you can. Our Citywide staff goal is $50,000 across all departments. When we give together, our “Can Do” spirit turns generosity into real help for neighbors in need.
I am so thankful for community members like Jordan Timmons and the team at Lowe’s Store on Skibo Rd. for their contributions to our Fire Department, thank you for going the extra mile for public safety. They were a key partner to ensuring that everyone who needs a smoke alarm has the ability to call and request one from our Fire Department. FFD will even install it for you!
Say hello if you see me out there so we can celebrate together! Thank you for showing what a “Can Do” community looks like by supporting children and families, promoting health, honoring heritage, caring for our unhoused neighbors, and backing the public servants who keep us moving forward.
Dr. Douglas J. Hewett
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