Good morning, Fayetteville.

Due to the ongoing government shutdown, Second Harvest Food Bank in Fayetteville is facing empty shelves as staff and volunteers work to feed families in Cumberland County—Gray Pond Baptist Church's pantry director traveled over an hour to collect food while furloughed workers helped boost food bag distributions beyond normal levels. The loss of government funds has further limited the bank's ability to restock essential supplies.

Fayetteville Technical Community College’s Military & Veterans Programs remains open to nearly 3,500 military-connected students—providing flexible classes, quick certificate programs and no-cost transition training for active-duty service members, veterans and military families even during a federal shutdown. The college employs more than 150 veterans on staff—demonstrating its ongoing dedication to meeting the education needs of its military community.

In the past two months, Fayetteville saw several new eateries open—including Taste of New York, Biggby Coffee, and Delish Market & Creamery—while a popular Thai restaurant closed permanently after a March fire.

Mary Lee & Mike's plans to reopen and Twin Peaks along with a new Kusinera location are set to further change the local dining scene.

Holly Day Fair

9 AM – 12 PM — Crown Complex — Admission fee may apply — Explore the largest holiday gift and craft show in Eastern NC featuring unique handmade items.

Holly Day Fair

9 AM – 12 PM — Crown Complex — Admission details not provided — Explore the largest holiday gift and craft show in Eastern North Carolina.

Holly Day Fair

11 a.m. - 2 p.m. — Crown Complex — Entry Fee Required — Explore the largest holiday gift and craft show in Eastern North Carolina.

Red Apple Run for Diabetes

8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. — Jordan Soccer Complex — Registration required — Participate in a 5K and 10K to support diabetes awareness in a scenic setting.

Petals & Prosecco Gathering

2-6 p.m. — The Sip Room — Ticket purchase required — Sip bubbly while crafting beautiful bouquets and making new friends.

Festival of Lights & Tiny's Winter Wonderland

7 p.m. – 10 p.m. — Sweet Valley Ranch — Ticket required — Experience over 1 million lights and visit Santa at a festive drive-through event with adorable animals.

Mercato Europeo

11 AM – 5 PM — Villa Mirabela — Free entry — Experience the charm of Europe with artisan delights in a winter wonderland setting.