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Tuesday, 24 March 2026
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Written by Katie Herring
Even though the weather can’t seem to make up its mind about what the temperature should be, there is no doubt that spring is on its way in our fair city. Forsythia and daffodils are the earliest harbingers that spring is coming, and the dogwoods and azaleas are beginning to reawaken and bring their colors to the local landscape.
As the weather warms, at least a little, and the colors of spring begin to appear, the anticipation draws many of us outside and into the fresh air. At this time, there is no better place to find fresh produce and farm goods, plus homemade and handmade goods of all kinds, than the City Market at the Museum in Downtown Fayetteville.
While the City Market is open on Saturdays year-round, it does get a little quieter during the coldest winter months. But as spring draws near, the Market gets busy once again, with both vendors and patrons.
The market is held right in front of the Fayetteville History Museum at 325 Franklin St. and runs every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Admission and parking are both free.
A Bounty of Local Flavors and Crafts
The City Market at the Museum is a seasonal kaleidoscope where no two visits are exactly alike. Depending on the week, shoppers can find an array of fresh, locally grown vegetables and fruits that follow the rhythm of the North Carolina harvest. From the first strawberries of spring to the hearty collards and sweet potatoes of fall, the market offers variety and
freshness year-round.
Beyond the produce bins, the market is a hub for farm-fresh proteins and pantry staples. Local honey, jars of preserves, and eggs are regular fixtures. However, the market’s appeal extends deep into the world of handcrafts. It is a destination for those seeking unique items that cannot be found on a big-box shelf.
While vendors may vary and no two Saturdays are exactly the same, patrons will find handmade goods, such as hand-knitted items and textiles, artisan soaps and hand-poured candles, custom jewelry and intricate wood crafts, seasonal plants and fresh-cut flowers. You might even be able to ask an expert about your own home garden, as there is often a representative from the NC State Extension Master Gardener program on site.
To round out the experience, local food trucks are frequently on-site, offering everything from gourmet coffee to savory brunch options, making the market a true Saturday morning destination for families.
Among the sea of vendors, few represent the spirit of the market better than Parker’s Ten Acre Farm. A veteran-owned and operated institution from nearby Cedar Creek, the Parkers have been a fixture at the City Market for nearly a decade. Their presence is a reminder of the market’s mission to support those who work the land with integrity.
Parker’s Ten Acre Farm is renowned for its affordable variety of farm-raised, antibiotic-free, and hormone-free poultry and pork products. For the adventurous cook, they offer a stunning variety of eggs—ranging from standard chicken eggs to duck and even goose eggs.
Their table is often crowded with shoppers reaching for their signature sauces, salsas, and muscadine juice, each a bottled reflection of the farm’s 10-acre bounty.
While the market technically operates year-round with a core group of hardy vendors, the official 2026 "main season" is set to launch with a series of highly anticipated community events.
The Spring Kick-Off: April 11On Saturday, April 11, the market will host its official 2026 Spring Kick-off. This event marks the full return of the seasonal vendors and is designed as a celebration of renewal. From 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., the grounds will be bustling with expanded offerings and special "mini-events" scattered throughout the museum property. It is the ideal time for home gardeners to pick up starter plants and for residents to restock their kitchens with the first arrivals of spring produce.
Dog Days of Summer: August 8
In a nod to ancient traditions, the market will host a special "Dog Days of Summer" event on Saturday, August 8. Historically, the "Dog Days" referred to the period between July 3 and Aug. 11, when the star Sirius (the Dog Star) rose with the sun in Ancient Rome.
On Aug. 8, the market is inviting four-legged friends to join the fun. The event will feature special treats for pups and plenty of "pets" from the community. It’s a family-friendly (and fur-friendly) way to get outside, even during the hottest part of the year.
Where History Meets the Present
The market’s location is no accident. Hosted by the Fayetteville History Museum, the event sits at the intersection of local heritage and modern community life. The museum itself is the "hub for history" downtown, operating out of the beautifully restored 1890 Cape Fear and Yadkin Valley Railroad Depot.
Under the guidance of Hattie Presnell and the dedicated city staff, the museum, its annex, and surrounding historic sites provide a wealth of educational resources. Visitors to the market are encouraged to step inside the museum to explore artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of Fayetteville—from its early beginnings to its pivotal role in transportation and military history.
The museum offers tours and presentations for all ages and is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., making it easy to turn a trip to the farmers’ market into an afternoon of educational discovery.
The City Market at the Museum remains one of Fayetteville’s most enduring and beloved traditions. By providing a space where local entrepreneurs can thrive and residents can access fresh, healthy food, it strengthens the social and economic fabric of the downtown district. Whether you are hunting for a rare goose egg, a handcrafted piece of jewelry, or simply a friendly conversation with a neighbor, the market at 325 Franklin Street is the place to be this season.
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Tuesday, 24 March 2026
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Written by Sheila D. Barker
As spring arrives and flowers begin to bloom, communities come together to celebrate the joy and renewal of Easter. Across the area, families can find a variety of festive events—from colorful egg hunts and photos with the Easter Bunny to outdoor festivals and family-friendly activities. Local Easter events offer something for everyone to enjoy, from a fun outing with the kids, a chance to enjoy the fresh spring air, or a meaningful way to mark the holiday.
FRIDAY, MARCH 27
Adult Egg Hunt at Fascinate-U Children's Museum-6 p.m.: Why should the kids have all the fun? This Easter, it's time for the adults to play! Fascinate-U Children's Museum invites you to their 2nd Annual 21+ Adults-Only Easter Egg Hunt on March 27, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Forget the gentle hunt of childhood; this event is designed for spirited competition with three thrilling rounds, each escalating in intensity. Your admission grants attendees one free drink, an array of tempting snacks and desserts, and the perfect atmosphere for friendly rivalry and exhilarating chaos. For those looking to extend the revelry, a cash bar will be fully stocked. Tickets are available for $25 per person. Get your tickets at https://tinyurl.com/3r2z549h.
SATURDAY, MARCH 28
Easter Egg Hunk & Kid Zone at Lexington Plantation, 86 Centennial Parkway, Cameron-10 a.m.: Join the Lexington Plantation Clubhouse's annual Easter Egg Hunt and Kids Zone. There will be free Bingo with cool prizes, an arts and craft table to make bunny ears, lots of great vendors, and food booths and trucks. Don't forget to get your picture taken with the Easter Bunny. Egg hunt will start at 11 a.m. for those 5 years and younger; noon for 6-7 years; 1 p.m. for 8-9 years; 2 p.m. for those 10 and up; and 3 p.m. open to any age. For more information, visit https://tinyurl.com/y4hmraek.
Hope Mills Cotton Tail Trail at Hope Mills Municipal Park-9 a.m.: Forget the frantic egg hunts! Hope Mills Parks & Rec is offering a refreshing, family-friendly twist on Easter with their "No Egg Hunt" Event. Join the fun in the park for a relaxed atmosphere filled with exciting activities for all ages. Enjoy games, a petting zoo, music from a DJ, memorable photos with the Easter Bunny, a vibrant Chalk Walk, fantastic giveaways, and much more! The rain location will be the Hope Mills Recreation Center. For more information, contact Meagan Mereness, Special Events & Communications Coordinator at mmereness@townofhopemills.com or call at 910-426-4060.
Tails & Trails at Cape Fear River Trail-Jordan Soccer Complex, Treetop Dr-10:30 a.m.: Join Pawsitively Perfect Pet Care for their first community group walk at the Cape Fear River Trail. Meet up at the main parking lot off Ramsey St (Methodist University entrance) near the trailhead sign. Get ready for a 45-minute to an hour walk at a relaxed, easy pace. Bring the pups and enjoy some fresh air and good company. All dogs on a standard leash (no retractables) are welcome. For more information, visit https://tinyurl.com/y24eau88.
2026 Easter Dash at Highland Baptist Church, 4465 Legion Rd, Hope Mills-10 a.m.: Get ready for the annual Easter Dash at Highland Baptist Church in Hope Mills. This fun-filled event is designed for children aged 3 to 5th grade. Participants will navigate a colorful obstacle "dash" around the church campus, reminiscent of a "Color Run," getting showered with vibrant cornstarch as they go. Everyone who crosses the finish line receives a medal! Lunch will be served following the awards ceremony. Registration is required. For more information, visit https://tinyurl.com/2zwhh2de.
Annual Easter Egg Hunt at Stoney Point Fire Department-1 p.m.: Join the Stoney Point Fire Department's Auxiliary for their Annual Easter Egg Hunt on Saturday, March 28! This free, public event kicks off at 1 p.m., with age groups starting their hunts consecutively. Hundreds of eggs await discovery in each category. For more information, visit https://tinyurl.com/5dk3ea6k.
SUNDAY, MARCH 29
Easter Egg Hunt at Dirtbag Farmers Market-2:45 p.m.: The Easter egg fun begins right after the Farmers Market. Tickets are $5 per child and can only be purchased with cash at the bar. Each child must bring their own bag or basket to collect eggs. Time slots for the egg hunts will be 2:45 p.m., 3 p.m., and 3:15 p.m. There will also be crafts for the kids and a visit from the Easter Bunny. For more information, visit https://tinyurl.com/52j66suy.
MONDAY, MARCH 30
Pet Photos with the Easter Bunny at Cross Creek Mall-11 a.m.: Bring the family's furry friend to meet the Easter Bunny and get a photo. The Easter Bunny is located in the Food Court adjacent to All American Pizza. Get your tickets and learn more by visiting https://tinyurl.com/4ndawnf2.
FRIDAY, APRIL 3
Easter Egg Hunt at Dick's House of Sport-10 a.m.: Don't miss this family-friendly event packed with exciting activities, surprises, and a special guest. This event is for ages 13 and under. The first 50 children will receive a branded Easter basket. For more information, visit https://tinyurl.com/yut65vrz.
SATURDAY, APRIL 4
Easter Egg Hunt at Sweet Valley Ranch-10 a.m.: Spend the day with your family participating in delightful activities and making special memories. Tickets are $10 for 13 years and up, $5 for ages 3-12, and ages 2 and under are free. Add $5 per child for the egg hunt. To purchase tickets, visit www.sweetvalleyranchnc.com/tickets.
Hoppin' Around Downtown 2026 at Downtown Fayetteville-Noon: Get ready, Downtown Fayetteville. Honey the Bunny is hopping your way for the Hoppin' Around Downtown event. Meet Honey, the sweetest bunny you'll ever encounter, as you explore our vibrant downtown shops, restaurants, and parks. Capture memorable photos with Honey while enjoying everything Downtown Fayetteville has to offer. Plus, keep an eye out for golden eggs scattered throughout downtown. These special eggs are filled with goodies for the children and will be available on a first-come, first-served basis, while supplies last. For more information, visit https://tinyurl.com/uty7bcsf.
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On April 12, runners, walkers and families from across the region will gather at the Jordan Soccer Complex for an event that goes far beyond the race itself. The We Run For Autism 5K, organized by Stubborn Donkey Running, returns for another year with a mission centered on community support and autism awareness. For race organizer Shawn Wussow, the event represents more than a traditional road race. It’s a way to bring people together around a cause that touches many lives in the community.