Entertainment

Step into Wonderland: Tea Party at Lazy Fox Lavender Farm

17This October, the serene charm of Lazy Fox Lavender Farm in Cameron will take a whimsical turn as it transforms into the fantastical world of Wonderland for the Mad Hatter Tea Party. Guests are invited to tumble down the rabbit hole and join the Mad Hatter, Queen of Hearts and Cheshire Cat for a one-of-a-kind tea experience that promises enchantment, laughter and a touch of delightful madness.
The Mad Hatter Tea Party will be held on Friday, Oct. 24, at 5 p.m. and Sunday, Oct. 26, at 3 p.m. on the farm’s picturesque veranda at 272 Edgewood Road. Tickets are $85 per person, and seating is limited for this immersive, interactive tea designed for guests aged six and up.
This isn’t your average afternoon tea; it’s a theatrical event that blends performance, culinary artistry, and a dose of Wonderland magic. As the Queen of Hearts shouts, “Off with her head!” and the White Rabbit searches for Alice in a delightful frenzy, guests will enjoy a beautifully curated spread of tailored treats, whimsical sweets, and freshly baked scones. Each serving is paired with lavender whipped butter, farm-fresh honey, fine teas, and lavender lemonade, a nod to the farm’s signature floral touch.
“Who doesn’t love to have a little fun?” Lindsey Lochner, owner of Lazy Fox Lavender Farm, said. “I wanted to bring something whimsical and unexpected to the farm, a tea that feels like you’ve stepped into another world, full of wonder and imagination.”
Lochner’s vision is to make the veranda feel like a portal to Wonderland, where “everything is slightly topsy-turvy and delightfully out of place.” Every table, teapot, and teacup will contribute to the illusion that guests have stepped into Lewis Carroll’s fantastical universe.
One of the highlights of the experience will be the live, in-character service. Guests will be served by Wonderland’s most beloved personalities—from the frantic White Rabbit to the mischievous Cheshire Cat. Lochner explained that her team takes the performances seriously (and joyfully), rehearsing roles to ensure each character embodies the playful, unpredictable spirit of Wonderland.
“Every interaction is meant to feel authentic and surprising,” Lochner said. “In true Wonderland fashion, you never quite know what to expect!”
The tea isn’t just for children. It’s an all-ages celebration of curiosity and creativity. Adults can rediscover their sense of wonder, while younger guests delight in meeting storybook characters come to life. Lochner says this mix of nostalgia and novelty is what makes the event truly special.
“Whether you’re six or sixty, there’s something magical about stepping into Wonderland,” she said. “It brings out the inner child in everyone.”
The menu itself is part of the storytelling. Guests can expect to find “Eat Me” cakes, “Drink Me” potions, and other imaginative offerings presented on elegant china. Lochner’s team has carefully curated teas to complement both sweet and savory items, ensuring that each bite and sip enhances the fantasy.
Costumes are encouraged but not required, though many guests may find it hard to resist donning a top hat or rabbit ears for the occasion.
The event’s attention to detail, from the whimsical décor to the farm-fresh ingredients, ensures that each tea feels personal and unforgettable. For those planning to attend with friends or family, Lochner recommends booking together.
“Please book your entire party under the same last name,” she noted. “We have limited seating, especially for larger groups.”
Tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable, but guests unable to attend are welcome to give their ticket to a friend. For parties of six or more, guests should contact Lindsey directly at 910-705-2317 to arrange accommodations.
Lazy Fox Lavender Farm has many events happening throughout the year, and this one has the possibility of becoming a yearly event.
“If guests love it as much as we think they will, it could easily become one of our signature fall events,” Lochner said.
Polish the teacups, grab some curiosity and don’t be late for this very important date. The Mad Hatter Tea Party at Lazy Fox Lavender Farm promises to be a lavender-scented adventure through imagination—a perfect way to celebrate the season in true Wonderland style. The Lazy Fox Lavender Farm is located at 272 Edgewood Rd, Cameron. Tickets can be purchased online at https://www.lazyfoxlavenderfarm.com/products/autumn-leaves-lavender-teas-at-lazy-fox-lavender-farm

(Photo courtesy of Lazy Fox Lavender Farm Facebook page)

Zombies invade Fayetteville at annual walk

16Get ready to rise from the grave and shuffle your way to downtown Fayetteville. The undead are back and hungrier than ever! The 15th Annual Zombie Walk returns on Friday, Oct. 24, from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m., bringing with it a night of frightful fun, outrageous costumes, and community spirit that proves being undead can be a lively affair.
This free, family-friendly event invites locals and visitors alike to don their best zombie attire and join the ghoulish gathering that has become one of Fayetteville’s favorite fall traditions.
What began fifteen years ago as a small charity event to help clean up one of downtown Fayetteville’s historic cemeteries has now grown into a massive celebration, drawing nearly 20,000 attendees each year. Organized by Downtown Cool Spring District, the Zombie Walk has become a hallmark of Fayetteville’s October 4th Friday festivities, transforming the streets into a parade of monsters, makeup, and mayhem.
“Every year we try to add a fun, new element to the Zombie Walk,” said Ashanti Bennett, president and CEO of Downtown Cool Spring District. “You’ll have to stay tuned for this year’s surprise!”
A Night of Frightful Fun
The Zombie Walk is more than just a spooky stroll; it’s a full evening of entertainment, art, and community connection. Attendees can expect a vibrant mix of live music, street performances, and art displays scattered throughout downtown. While this year’s performers haven’t yet been announced, last year’s entertainment was The Phoebe’s and The Several Devils, as well as thrilling wrestling matches from Ring Wars Carolina.
But the main event is, of course, the Zombie Processional, where hundreds of costumed participants, each more gruesomely creative than the last, shuffle through the streets in a creepy, coordinated march. The procession concludes at the District Vibe Stage, where zombies, ghouls, and goblins can dance the night away under Fayetteville’s city lights.
“The Zombie Walk is one of the more playful events in the season,” Bennett said. “Folks really put in time and effort into their costumes—you’ll see some stunning creativity on display. If you feel like letting loose in a controlled, safe environment, come downtown on Oct. 24!”

Fun for the Whole Family
While the undead might sound scary, this event is designed for all ages. Each 4th Friday includes a Children’s Area, complete with games, art activities, and seasonal crafts to keep the little ones entertained. The costume contest is a fan favorite, with multiple categories so everyone, from the tiniest trick-or-treater to the most fearsome adult zombie, has a chance to show off their look and take home bragging rights.
Community Spirit Lives On
The success of the Zombie Walk wouldn’t be possible without the enthusiastic support of Fayetteville’s small business community. Each year, downtown merchants go all out, decorating their storefronts, offering themed specials, handing out treats and samples, and even hosting their own pop-up activities inside their shops.
“Many of the merchants in our small business community decorate for the season,” Bennett noted. “Some take it a step further, hosting their own themed pop-up activities inside their stores.”
The Zombie Walk also provides an opportunity for local vendors to showcase their wares during October’s 4th Friday. Those interested in participating can apply at https://www.eventeny.com/events/october-4th-friday-october-24-2025-18280/?f
Road Closures and Event Details
To accommodate the undead parade, road closures will begin at 1 p.m. on the 100 block of Person Street and expand at 4:30 p.m. to include the 100–300 blocks of Hay Street, Anderson Street, Maxwell Street, Burgess Street, Donaldson Street, Green Street, and Gillespie Street.
Bennett says there’s one thing you absolutely shouldn’t miss: “You don’t want to miss the Zombie Processional, a stroll through the District that ends at our District Vibe stage where all the ghouls and goblins can dance the rest of the night away.”
Grab the fake blood, tattered clothes, and best undead shuffle — the Zombie Walk 2025 promises a frightfully fun night you won’t soon forget. Because in Fayetteville, even the undead know how to throw a great party.

(Photo: The Zombie Walk is a Fayetteville tradition, and hundreds come dressed up to downtown Fayetteville to show off their costumes. Photo courtesy of Fayetteville Zombie Walk)

Cumberland Choral Arts to perform ‘Water Works’ concert

12Like the ebb and flow of ocean waves, the Cumberland Choral Arts has seen varied levels of membership over the years. This year has seen a tsunami of interest and activity. As the group prepares for its newest performance, “Water Works,” membership and participation are at an all-time high, according to Cumberland Choral Arts President Sandy Cage, following this season’s registration night.
During the COVID-19 shutdown, the group dwindled to about 30 members.
“We came back, and it was a slow build,” Cage explained.
Previously, the group had between 60 and 80 members, and recently, it reached the 100-member mark. Cumberland Choral Arts was unsure what to expect and unsure where the registration numbers would fall this season, especially with a change in directors. The hope was to see around 85 registrants.
“The first night we were like, whoa, we’re out of music, and so we ordered more music, and then people still kept coming, and it was like, okay, we have to order more music,” She explained. “That was a really good problem.”
In part, younger singers comprise the wave of new participants, including high school seniors and first-year college students, according to Cage.
“We love having them join us,” Cage said.
The upcoming “Water Works” performance is an opportunity for the ever-expanding Cumberland Choral Arts to showcase their new talent and a new artistic director, Major Curtis Kinzey. Kinzey, who served as the U.S. Army Forces Command Staff Bands Officer before joining the Cumberland Choral Arts, served as the commander of the 1st Cavalry Division Band. Between 2011 and 2016, Kinzey directed the United States Army Chorus. He has led performances for five U.S. presidents and has conducted nationally televised performances. In addition to his storied career in the armed services, Kinzey holds a master’s degree in Choral Conducting and a Bachelor of Music degree in Vocal Performance.
“We’re excited for our first concert with Curt as director. I know he’s looking forward to that,” said Cage.
“Water Works,” led by Kinzey, will feature a flowing lineup of music inspired by water. The musical selections slated for this event include folk songs, pop songs, and spirituals, all sharing a water-focused theme, featuring “Wade in the Water,” “Down to the River to Pray,” and “Bridge Over Troubled Water,” among others.
Cage is most looking forward to learning and performing “I Dream of Rain.”
“The first time I heard it, I just thought it was so pretty,” Cage said.
Cage’s earworm from the performance catalogue is “Wellermen.”
“Monday night we rehearsed one for the first time, and it’s a sea shanty, the ‘Wellermen’, we have had such fun singing that one,” she said. “And it was in my head all night long when I tried to sleep, but it was a fun one. We all enjoy singing that one.”
The group does have a core membership, one of whom has been there for 30 years. While the group advertises through their web page and social media accounts, Cage says it’s word of mouth that keeps them growing in numbers.
“I think the best form [of advertisement] is by word of mouth. Just people that sing have friends and know people and invite them, people that come to our concerts, and we always say, ‘Would you like to sing with us?’ I give them the information for that, and the high school choral teachers have done a great job this year of identifying students and encouraging them to come join us,” Cage said.
The Cumberland Choral Arts, as an organization, has community-focused goals. They intend to bring enjoyment and art to the people of Fayetteville.
“You just need the arts in your life to bring joy, and music can do that, whether it is choral, or symphony, or whatever, because it just makes you smile, or it goes through your head all night long when you’re going to sleep, or it brings back memories,” Cage said.
13But Cumberland Choral Arts also focuses on expanding the musical horizons of the local youth.
“One of our goals is also to be an advocate for getting younger people involved in music,” Cage said.
One of the ways the Cumberland Choral Arts accomplishes this is through its sponsorship of the Campbellton Youth Chorus, which offers students in grades 4 through 10 free participation. The youth group also sings before the Cumberland Choral Arts “Messiah” concert at Methodist University.
“We underwrote that so parents can have their kids be part of a choral group and have the opportunity to sing for the public, sing with a larger group, and sing with an orchestra,” Cage said.
The Campbellton Youth Chorus will also be participating in the upcoming “Water Works” performance with the Cumberland Choral Arts.
This performance season, the Fayetteville community has ample opportunities to take in a Cumberland Choral Arts performance.
“This is probably our most aggressive calendar that we have ever had,” Cage explained.
The group will present six performances to the community. The preparation for these events is extensive and involves multiple rehearsals. As a community chorus, the group works with a wide range of skill sets, and a significant amount of work is done both in rehearsals as a group and at home by the singers as individuals. Rehearsals for “Water Works” began in August, and it typically takes at least eight weeks to prepare for each performance.
“We have a wide range of abilities, from the very casual singer to the people who are professional singers … It’s important to us that everybody is included to have the opportunity to sing,” Cage said.
“Water Works” will be performed on Oct. 25 at 7:30 p.m. at the Haymount United Methodist Church’s Life Center, located at 1700 Fort Bragg Road. Tickets are available on the Cumberland Choral Arts webpage, https://secure.givelively.org/event/cumberland-choral-arts/water-works, and are $20 for adults and $5 for students. Those interested can find information about the Cumberland Choral Arts’ upcoming season, as well as a bio for the new director, at https://www.cumberlandchoralarts.org. 

(Photos: Above-Cumberland Choral Arts members pose for a photograph in July. The group has seen a surge in membership over the last few months, something members are very excited about. Photo courtesy of Cumberland Choral Arts Facebook page. Below-Major Curtis Kinzey directs a practice for the Cumberland Choral Arts. Kinzey is the new director of the community choir. Photo courtesy of Sandy Cage)

Up & Coming Weekly’s Trunk or Treat Roundup

15Spooky season is here, and that means it’s time for costumes, candy, and plenty of family fun! One of the most popular traditions in our community is Trunk or Treat—a safe and festive way for kids to enjoy trick-or-treating all in one spot.
Local churches, schools, and organizations are decking out their trunks with creative themes, handing out treats, and bringing neighbors together for a night of Halloween magic.
To help you plan your celebrations, we’ve rounded up a list of trunk or treat events happening right here in our area. Grab your costumes, bring your candy bags, and get ready for a spooktacular time!
Saturday, Oct. 18
• Stoney Point Fire Department's Annual Trunk or Treat at 7221 Stoney Point Rd., Noon to 2 p.m.
• Trunk or Treat at Freddy's at 4825 Ramsey St., 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Thursday, Oct. 23
• Trunk or Treat at VFW Post 6018, 116 Chance St., 6 p.m.
• Monster Mash Trunk Dash: Trunk or Treat at AmeriHealth Caritas, 4101 Raeford Rd., 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Friday, Oct. 24
• Trunk or Treat at Freedom Christian Academy, 3130 Gillespie St., 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Saturday, Oct. 25
• Trick-or-Treat at Museum of the Cape Fear Historical Complex, 801 Arsenal Ave., 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Trunk-Or-Treat/Halloween Social at Fit4Life Health Club, 650 Shell Drive, Spring Lake, 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.
• Fall Festival & Trunk-or-Treat at Cedar Falls Baptist Church, 6181 Ramsey St., 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.
• TRC's Annual Trunk or Treat at Triangle Rock Club, 5213 Raeford Rd., 5 p.m.
• Trunk or Treat at Freedom Biker Church, 455 Rock Hill Rd., 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
• Annual Trunk or Treat at Fit4Life Health Club, 2820 Hope Mills Rd., 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.

• Trick or Treat at Lori's Ace, 2800 Raeford Rd., Noon to 2 p.m.
• BCA Trunk-or-Treat at Behavior Change Agents, 5948 Fisher Rd., 5:30 p.m.
• Trunk or Treat at Hope Mills Shrinettes Org, 4461 Cameron Rd., 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
• Fall Festival/Trunk or Treat at Anderson Creek Community Church, 2085 Ray Rd, Spring Lake, 4 p.m.
• Ray Road Tire & Auto Trunk or Treat, 1964 Ray Rd., 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
• FREE Trunk or Treat at Hope Mills Shrine Club, 4461 Cameron Rd., Hope Mills, 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Sunday, Oct. 26
• 3rd Annual Fall Festival and Trunk or Treat at Cedar Creek Baptist Church, 4170 Tabor Church Rd., 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.
• Ville City Jeeps Trunk or Treat, 2505 Long Valley Rd, Spring Lake, 4 p.m.
• FBCC's Trunk or Treat at Faith Builders Christian Center, 2600 Wade-Stedman Rd., Stedman, 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Wednesday, Oct. 29
• Trunk or Treat-Cumberland County Animal Services at 4704 Corporation Dr., 6:30 p.m.
Thursday, Oct. 30
• Trunk or Treat at Spa Fitness & Wellness Center, 860 Elm St., 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
• Trunk-or-Treat at DK Hardee, 4327 Camden Rd., 6 p.m.
• Open House Trunk or Treat at One Stop Academy, 2653 Hope Mills Rd., Hope Mills, 3 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Friday, Oct. 31
• Trunk or Treat at Praeceptor K9, 3760 Sycamore Dairy Rd., 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
• Trunk or Treat at Faymount Baptist Church, 3663 Cumberland Rd., 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
• Trunk or Treat! at Feather Ridge Equestrian Inc, 2132 Evans Dairy Rd., 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.
• Trunk or Treat at Village Presbyterian Church, 5303 Spruce Dr., 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
• BK Cruise'N/Trunk or Treat at Burger King, 7011 Raeford Rd., 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Beer, howls, seasonal screams on offer at Dirtbag Ales

11Spooky season is here, and with it, a slew of fantastic Halloween-themed functions is on offer to the Fayetteville community. Each year, Dirtbag Ales Brewery has secured its spot as a tried and true source of spooky fun, and this year promises to be no different.
Kicking off the spooky week on Oct. 22, Dirtbag Ales will be playing Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” album in the tap room from start to finish, beginning at 7 p.m. Dirtbag Ales collaborates with a company from Raleigh called No Skips for this event. The organizer will bring custom activity coloring sheets, crafted by an artist in Durham, and share some trivia and facts about the album.
The annual Ghost and Goblin Beer Mile Run, sponsored by Rogue Alpha Athletics, is a yearly costume-filled good time. Participants are encouraged to run, jog, walk, or even crawl the one-mile course while enjoying four ten-ounce Dirtbag Ales brews. Non-drinkers and those under the age of 21 are also invited to participate and swap the beers for water.
The event will be held on Oct. 25. Check-in will be at 2 p.m., and the first wave will start at 2:15 p.m.
Tickets are $35, and participants who sign up before Oct. 20 at https://runsignup.com/Race/NC/HopeMills/GhostGoblinsBeerMile will receive a free t-shirt.
Jesse, a bartender at Dirtbag Ales, is the king of seasonal costume wearing, according to Shannon Loper, Operations Manager at Dirtbag Ales. He wins annually for his most unique choice of costumes created from found objects.
“Let’s just describe Jesse as an eccentric rambler world traveler,” Loper said. “He came in as a ghost, and it was a sheer curtain that was left in the attic of his rental home.”
The same year, he also dressed up as a wizard. Jesse assembled that costume by wrapping a towel around a cowboy hat, borrowing his wife’s robe, and using a chopstick for a wand.
“Jesse took a lot of awards for staff costumes,” Loper explained.
Beer Mile participants are encouraged to come out and, like Jesse, dress for the season.
Later that evening, once it is dark enough to turn on the projector, Dirtbag Ales will be hosting the Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra’s performance of Nosferatu. The event usually draws around 200 people.
“We love that event every year,” said Loper.
The 1922 German silent horror film will be projected on a large screen inside the tap room, accompanied by a symphonic performance of the musical score.
“My favorite thing that we do is Nosferatu, Loper said. “It makes the symphony more accessible to people; they feel like it’s easier to come to the brewery. … so, it just makes people realize how great our local symphony is.”
Attendees can also enjoy a selection of seasonal special brews at these events, including Marzen Attacks (a Marzen-style beer), Rising Sun (a new rice lager), Alt Beer (a darker German-style ale), and Blacktoberfest (a Marzen-style beer).
The following day, the brewery will be hosting its eighth Trick-or-Treat Farmer’s Market. Tickets for the event are $5 and can be purchased only in the taproom. Approximately 60 vendors will participate, and they will distribute candy immediately after the market. Tickets are limited, and they do sell out.
Dirtbag Ales is located at 5435 Corporation Drive in Hope Mills. For additional information, readers can contact the brewery at info@dirtbag.com, visit the brewery’s Facebook page, or call 910-426-2537.

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