Spring is returning and 4th Friday is set to welcome the warmer weather with fresh new examples of all that downtown Fayetteville has to offer. In addition to 4th Friday events, the weekend calendar is full of Easter-centered celebrations including Easter egg hunts, breakfasts and of course appearances by the Easter Bunny himself. 

The Arts Council is located at 301 Hay St. On March At this month’s 4th Friday, the Arts Council opens the exhibit Once Upon a Time: Fairy Tales, Fables and Myths. This exhibit is presented by Ellington-White Community Development Corporation. It is on display through April 26. On 4th Friday’s the Arts Council will stay open late. It is a great opportunity to stop by, see new exhibits and find out about upcoming events.

Fascinate-U is the perfect place for families and kids to enjoy an evening in downtown Fayetteville. Every 4th Friday, Fascinate-U stays open late from 7 until 9 p.m., and offers free admission into the museum. Unlike traditional museums, the exhibits here are designed specifically for young children to touch and explore. It is through interacting with these miniature versions of real life that kids can learn about it. It is a fun, engaging and safe way to learn. In addition to the exhibits Fascinate-U also has a free craft for kids to enjoy. This month the theme is Easter Eggs. Fascinate-U is located at 116 Green St. For more information, visit www.fascinate-u.com.

The Airborne and Special Operations Museum celebrates Easter with a delicious breakfast and pictures with the Easter Bunny on March 26. The breakfast features eggs, pancakes and sausage. Reservations are required for breakfast and can be made by calling 643.2778 or by stopping by the ASOM Gift Shop. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for 12 and under. Ages 2 and under are free with a paying adult. Pictures with the Easter Bunny are from 9:30 a.m. until noon and are $5 each.

An Easter Scramble (egg hunt) is planned in the Reflection Garden from 9:30 until 11 a.m. Children must pick up their own eggs and bring their own baskets. Parents may accompany children under 2 onto the field. Participants are separated into age groups, with two egg scrambles per age group during the morning. The Egg Scramble is fee to the public thanks to the generosity of First Citizens Bank. For more information, visit www.asomf.org/event-calendar. The Airborne and Special Operations Museum is located at 100 Bragg Boulevard in historic Downtown Fayetteville. 

Epicenter Church is once again hosting its annual Hop in the Park at Festival Park on March 25 from 6 until 10 p.m.  This is a giant family-friendly event with all sorts of entertainment options. Plans include a giant Easter egg hunt, inflatables, carnival rides, face painting, live music, food and a special guest skydiving into the event. Be sure to register at www.hopinthepark.com/i-wanna-hop/! Everyone is invited to attend regardless of religious affiliation. The goal of this event is to provide a safe place for children to celebrate and have fun. 

Find out more about 4th Friday and other downtown events at www.theartscouncil.com