Good morning, Fayetteville.

The Victorian-themed Dickens Holiday festival will begin at noon on November 28 at the Fayetteville History Museum — the first 100 guests will receive free limited edition Dickens Dollars while visitors enjoy costumed characters, carriage rides, and ticketed events including a Dickens lecture, tea service, and the Fezziwig Ball. The event will also feature fireworks, a gingerbread house contest, a best-dressed competition and a candlelight procession that signals the start of the holiday season.

Joey Hopkins will retire next month as NCDOT secretary after more than 30 years, and his deputy Daniel Johnson will replace him—Governor Josh Stein announced Friday.

Hopkins delayed his retirement due to Hurricane Helene, and Johnson, a Hickory native, brings strong law and public service experience.

Fort Bragg held a groundbreaking ceremony for its new child development center that will serve 338 children and ease the wait for over 1,000 military families; officials said it will open by 2027—boosting support for military families.

Fun City Adventure Park opened on Aug.

8 at 1910 Skibo Road in the Marketfair Mall in Fayetteville and offers trampolines, obstacle courses, rock climbing walls + arcade games for all ages. Guests must buy tickets, sign waivers, and use trampoline socks available for $3.50.

Rodd Baxley from the Fayetteville Observer and USA TODAY Sports Network explained that UNC football defeated Richmond at Kenan Stadium and must play with more consistency in future games—his review noted key areas for improvement.

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.

Healthy Kids Running Series Fall 2025

2:30-3:30 p.m. — E Melvin Honeycutt Elementary — Registration fee applies — Engage children in a healthy running program tailored for pre-K through 8th grade.

Nurse John Live

7-8:30 p.m. — Crown Theatre - The Crown Center — Tickets from $78 — Experience the unforgettable performance by Nurse John in Fayetteville.

Crowder & Passion Music Concert

7:00 – 8:30 PM — Crown Complex — Ticket prices vary — Experience an uplifting evening with popular worship leaders and music from Passion City Church.