Good morning, Fayetteville.

A local man turned his mission to honor his late mother into a Thanksgiving tradition that fed over 3,000 people with help from 80 volunteers—delivering hot meals to families in need.

The 13-year event also provided 120 lunches to a children’s home and furthered community support during the holiday season.

Stacey Buckner—founder of Veggie for Vets—shared how her family’s struggles with addiction motivate her mission to support local veterans.

Today, Fayetteville's 26th annual A Dickens Holiday begins at noon downtown with free events like street performers and a candlelight procession along with ticketed experiences such as a Royal Tea, carriage rides and a new Fezziwig Ball.

Attendees are encouraged to dress in Victorian style to join the photo contest and enjoy the day-long festivities until 9 p.m.—bringing a mix of history and holiday cheer to the city.

Fayetteville Police is urging residents to sign up for the House Check program—where officers will check homes while residents travel—and to follow travel tips like locking vehicles and parking in well-lit areas.

On November 25, the 18th Airborne Corps held its annual Dragonsgiving event at Fort Bragg’s dining facilities—culinary specialists were evaluated on six criteria while serving dishes including turkey, ham, roasted pig and themed cakes to honor Thanksgiving traditions; the event featured a special cake cut by both the youngest and oldest soldiers to symbolize the Army's past and future.

UNC basketball lost 74-58 to Michigan State on Thanksgiving Day in Florida—recording their worst 3-point performance at 17% and allowing 46-34 in the paint—and the bench and backup bigs struggled to stop the Spartans’ late runs.

Mercato Europeo

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

North Carolina Fashion Week

5-7 p.m. — Arts Council of Fayetteville | Cumberland County — Cost info not provided — Experience a vibrant showcase of local, regional, and out-of-state fashion designers and models.

A Christmas Story Screening

1:30 – 3:40 PM — Cameo Art House Theatre — Ticketed event — Enjoy a holiday classic with Ralphie Parker's charming adventures.

Fayetteville Marksmen vs Knoxville Ice Bears

6:00-7:30 p.m. — Crown Complex — Cost info not specified — Watch an exciting hockey matchup between the Marksmen and Ice Bears on FloHockey.

Anime Holiday Party

12:30-3 p.m. — Oishi Bubble Tea — Free entry — Celebrate Small Business Saturday with anime fans and bubble tea at this ultimate holiday party.