Good morning, Fayetteville.

Beats & Eats Vol. 2 will take place at Festival Park on Aug 23 from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. as residents gather for a free festival with live DJs, food vendors and a kids zone honoring Brother Frank Summers while proceeds support a local youth mentorship program.

The Army Community Service marked its 60th birthday on July 26 at the Soldier Support Center — drawing over a thousand military families — and provided free school supplies earned through carnival games for children.

It celebrated six decades of service by offering activities and resources that support military families facing everyday challenges.

The Karen Chandler Trust will hold its annual concert fundraiser at Louie’s Sports Pub — 2417 Robeson St. — on Sunday, Aug.

17 from noon to 7 p.m., where local bands will play to raise funds for cancer patients and their families.

Fayetteville voters in the west may face a longer drive to cast their ballots after the Cumberland County Board of Elections voted 3—2 to reject using the Cliffdale Recreation Center for early voting ahead of the November municipal elections; the North Carolina State Board of Elections will choose a replacement site to help avoid a potential 15 to 25-minute drive for voters.

On August 1, the Greater Fayetteville Chamber hosted a Candidates Academy for 18 City Council hopefuls where local experts explained government roles and funding with insights from former councilman Kirk deViere - a session designed to clarify the functions of local, county and state government. The Chamber will also hold a public Candidates Forum on Oct. 14 at FTCC in Cumberland Hall at 5:30 p.m. so voters can learn more about each candidate's vision.

The Cumberland County Board of Elections did not reach an agreement on where to host early voting sites for the 2025 municipal elections, leaving state officials to decide.

Local voters and board members raised concerns that using only one site in the historic Cliffdale neighborhood might favor one group—so an extra site at the Kiwanis Recreation Center will be added to balance the plan.

North Carolina Subcontractor Networking Event

10 a.m. – 12 p.m. — Fayetteville Technical Community College Horticulture Center — Free entry — Network with prime contractors and learn about Job Order Contracting opportunities.

Corks & Connections Networking Mixer

6-9 p.m. — The Sip Room — Free entry — A lively evening of drinks and networking awaits local professionals.

Repticon Fayetteville Show

9 a.m.-4 p.m. — Crown Complex — Admission fee varies — Explore a fascinating exhibition of reptiles, exotic pets, and supplies.

3rd Annual Back to School Bazaar

3-7 p.m. — Rainbow Shops — Free entry — Celebrate back-to-school season with giveaways, food, and entertainment for the whole family.

Boots & Brews

5-10 p.m. — Dirtbag Ales Brewery & Taproom — Free entry — Enjoy line dancing, food trucks, and local vendors at this family-friendly rodeo party.

Hanging with the Highlands

10 a.m. - 4 p.m. — Sweet Valley Ranch — Ticket required — Experience a gentle giant encounter with friendly Highland cows in a scenic farm setting.

Cumberland County Fair on September 3rd

5-6:30 p.m. — Crown Complex — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy the festive atmosphere of the Cumberland County Fair with live performances and community fun.