Good morning, Fayetteville.

Local leaders, nonprofit representatives and teenagers met at Way2Real Community Center on Aug.

22 to talk about fixing youth issues like mental health, education, workforce training and public safety—teens pressed for more safe spaces and police patrols to protect local areas.

The Cumberland County Fair will run from Aug.

29 to Sept. 7 at the Crown Complex with rides, games, live music, livestock shows and food from vendors including funnel cakes and Abby’s Empanadas. Admission prices range from $3 to $11 (military, student and senior discounts apply) and unlimited ride wristbands cost $32.

U.S. News & World Report ranked 17,901 public high schools and three Fayetteville high schools—Massey Hill Classical, Jack Britt, and Cumberland Polytechnic—placed in the top 100 in North Carolina based on factors like college readiness and graduation rate.

Fort Bragg officials announced the All American gate will close for several months early next year to repair a bumpy roadway and bridge over Gruber Road—this project is estimated to cost $20 million and take 18—24 months while the visitors center remains open.

Nearby communities may see extra traffic as work begins and details for funding are finalized.

Fayetteville will see a crowded District 8 council race after incumbent Courtney Banks-McLaughlin withdrew to run for mayor — triggering candidates Rodney Garvin, Travis Hamed, and Shaun McMillan to file — as voters prepare for a primary on Oct.

7 with the top two advancing to a general election on Nov. 4.

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.

Around the World Run

12:00 AM – 11:59 PM — Cape Fear Botanical Garden — Cost not specified — Celebrate diverse cultures through a community-centric running event.

Cumberland County Fair 2025

1-2:30 p.m. — Crown Complex — Ticket prices vary — Experience local festivities at the Cumberland County Fair in Fayetteville.

The Perfect Pairing: Charcuterie Workshop

1-2:30 p.m. — Grapes & Hops-Craft Beer & Wine — Included in ticket — Craft a personalized charcuterie board while enjoying expertly curated wine pairings.

Fall Run Iron Mike Run 5K Run/Walk 2025

4 AM – 2 PM — 300 Bragg Blvd, Fayetteville, NC — Registration details available — Participate in a community-building fitness event while raising funds for future chapter activities.