Entertainment

From Detroit to 910: Celebrating the King of Beats

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Tuesday, 10 February 2026

Written by Amber Little

Last year, Fayetteville experienced the vision of LeJuane “El’Ja” Bowens come to life with the inaugural D’Jilla Weekend, an immersive artistic weekend full of spoken word, music, and the release of El'J Dilla: Poems Inspired by the Music of J Dilla. This book of poetry has an accompanying J’Dilla playlist and a foreword written by the one and only Ma Dukes, the legend's mother.
“Last year, Ma Dukes officially sanctioning the release of El’J Dilla: Poems Inspired by the Music of J Dilla, did more than validate the work—it rooted it in legacy. That blessing shifted everything. It let the community know this wasn’t just a tribute, it was stewardship. Because of that moment, Dilla Day Fayetteville, NC, is coming together with deeper intention, wider trust, and stronger partnerships, along with being the first official Dilla Day event for North Carolina,” said El’Ja.
“Artists, venues, and supporters are showing up knowing this event honors J Dilla’s spirit the right way—with care, creativity, and community at the center. The sanction opened doors, but more importantly, it raised the standard. This year’s event isn’t just inspired by Dilla; it’s aligned with the values Ma Dukes has always protected—authenticity, respect, and love for the culture.”
This year’s event promises to be an expansion and elevation of last year's. Dilla Day: Fayetteville Weekend is a four-day weekend that encompasses the vibe of J’Dilla, captures the spirit of creativity, and celebrates a music legend. Festivities begin on Thursday, Feb. 19, and conclude on Sunday, Feb. 22. Events this year will be a mix of free and ticketed.
J’Dilla weekend 2026 kicks off with T.A.P at Winterbloom Tea at 7 p.m. The Dilla Day Edition will feature award-winning poet and slam coach, Letitia Brown. T.A.P. is an open mic for poets, musicians, vocalists, and any creative with something to say. Sign-ups start at 6:30 p.m. for those who want to take the “stage.” This is a free event.
Friday is the $1000 J’Dilla Poetry Slam at The Sweet Palette, hosted by the incomparable Grammy-winning poet, Steph Love.
Twelve poets will compete in 3 rounds, and only one poet will come out on top. Second, third, and fourth place won’t walk away empty-handed. Cash prizes will be handed out to the top 5 poets of the night. Durham’s hottest DJ, DJ Jimmie V, will be on the ones and twos, keeping the vibe going between rounds and poets in the zone. This is a free event, doors open at 7:30 p.m., and the show starts at 8:00 p.m.
Saturday, the vibe and beats continue with two events. Sample This: Writing and Music Workshop at 11 a.m. starts the day at the Capital Encore Academy located at 126 Hay Street. This is a free workshop for anyone interested in writing or beat-making, featuring Emmy-winning poet Boris “Bluz” Rogers and music producer, Supa Trav. Saturday night is Dilla Day Fayetteville: Dilla Sessions, the highlight of the J’Dilla weekend. Get ready for a night of music at the Arts Council of Fayetteville/Cumberland County’s newest addition, Arts XLR, located at 214 Burgess St. On the turntables for the night is DJ Prodigee, keeping J’Dilla classics in the mix.
The night starts with a Beat Battle, as some of the best producers go head-to-head, showing off their skill and mastery of the music catalogue. Rizzy takes the stage for a special performance, followed by Dasan Ahanu and The Eloquent Band, a unique and dynamic blend of live music, poetry, and hip-hop. This is a ticketed event. To purchase tickets visit, https://bit.ly/49YBhq5
Sunday wraps up the weekend with Dilla Brunch at The Sip Room. This brunch will honor the legend, with Ma Dukes as the guest speaker, DJ Yodo in attendance, and a fantastic spread of delicious bites. Brunch will be served from noon to 3 p.m. This is a ticketed event. Tickets can be purchased at https://bit.ly/3ZipT27
El’J had plenty of help making this year’s event happen.
“This year, Dilla Day Fayetteville is powered by the support of 20+ sponsors who believe in honoring culture the right way. We’re especially grateful to Equal Space for Peace, 7 Directions of Service, Poetry-n-Motion LLC, the James Dewitt Yancey Foundation, and the Fayetteville Heckler, whose commitment to community, creativity, and legacy helped make this celebration possible. Their support goes beyond sponsorship—it’s an investment in culture, education, and the future. And they’re just a few of the many partners who stepped up to ensure Dilla Day Fayetteville continues to grow with intention and respect,” he said.
Dilla Day 2026 is a can’t-miss event, from the first event to the last, each one was curated to bring the spirit of J’Dilla to Fayetteville. This is far from the last Dilla Day: Fayetteville Weekend. El’Ja has a vision for the future, noting, "This is a community in motion, and I’m grateful to be part of it. I see Dilla Day Fayetteville becoming a cultural landmark—an annual tradition people plan for and travel to. As it grows, I see expanded programming: workshops, panels, beat showcases, and youth engagement, all rooted in Dilla’s spirit. The goal isn’t just growth, but longevity—building something that remains authentic, community-centered, and intentional. A living legacy that honors the culture with respect, education, and love, while positioning Fayetteville as a place that truly understands how to celebrate hip-hop history,” El’Ja said.
“I also want to acknowledge the artists, DJs, poets, speakers, and vendors who showed up with their whole selves and trusted the vision. And finally, Fayetteville—for showing up, for listening, and for holding space.

(Photo: El'Ja Bowens is hosting Dilla Day Fayetteville, a celebration of J Dilla. Photo courtesy of El'Ja Bowens' Facebook Page)

Cape Fear Botanical Garden hosts adult only night experience

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Tuesday, 03 February 2026

Written by Tara Kamiya

Cape Fear Botanical Garden at 536 North Eastern Blvd. will open its gates after hours for a special adults-only event that blends nightlife, nature and interactive discovery in a setting rarely seen by visitors.
Garden After Dark invites guests aged 18 and older to explore the Garden from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Feb. 14, beneath the moonlight for one evening of music, movement and hands-on experiences. Designed for couples and singles alike, the event offers an alternative to traditional Valentine’s season outings by transforming the familiar landscape into a vibrant nighttime destination.
As daylight fades, a live DJ will provide music for an outdoor dance floor surrounded by illuminated pathways and glowing displays. Guests are encouraged to move throughout the Garden, where activity stations are spread across the property to create an immersive experience. Trivia under the stars will challenge participants with nature-themed questions, while oversized glowing yard games and illuminated bubbles add a playful element throughout the evening.
These features are intended to encourage interaction and exploration in a relaxed, social environment.
Live animal encounters will offer guests the opportunity to observe and learn about fascinating creatures up close. Interactive science stations will highlight the unexpected and curious side of nature, reinforcing the Garden’s educational mission while keeping the experience accessible and engaging for adult audiences.
A campfire lounge will provide a quieter gathering space, featuring softly glowing red and pink flames designed to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Food and beverage options will be available throughout the grounds, including craft cocktails, coffee and light fare, allowing attendees to shape their own pace for the evening.
Garden After Dark represents the Garden’s ongoing effort to expand programming beyond daytime hours and traditional formats. The event is part of a broader strategy to attract new audiences while maintaining a balance between entertainment, education and environmental awareness. The Garden’s ability to host programs like this is rooted in a vision that began more than three decades ago.
In 1989, a small group of Fayetteville gardening enthusiasts united around the idea of creating a botanical garden that would inspire learning, preserve native plant life and serve as a community asset. That effort led to the formation of the Friends of the Botanical Garden organization, which helped mobilize volunteers and supporters.
The group secured a lease on 67 acres of city-owned land formerly known as Pope Park and developed an ambitious 20-year master plan to guide growth and development. Early milestones included identifying more than 450 native plant species, enrolling hundreds of legacy members and publishing the Garden’s first newsletter. These early efforts laid the foundation for the Garden’s long-term success.
Today, Cape Fear Botanical Garden functions as both a nature retreat and an educational resource, offering seasonal exhibits, youth programming, workshops and community events throughout the year. Special events such as Garden After Dark reflect the Garden’s commitment to continued evolution while remaining aligned with its original mission.
Membership support remains a key component of the Garden’s sustainability. Members receive unlimited daily admission, discounted event pricing and access to exclusive programs.
In addition, membership includes reciprocal admission to more than 300 botanical gardens across North America through the American Horticultural Society, extending opportunities for exploration and learning beyond the local area. Multiple membership levels are available to accommodate individuals, families and supporters.
Tickets for Garden After Dark are $30 for the general public and $25 for Garden members. Tickets are available online at https://shop.capefearbg.org/SelectEvent.aspx?eventID=1000136.
As Fayetteville continues to grow, Cape Fear Botanical Garden remains a space where education, conservation and community intersect. Garden After Dark offers adults an opportunity to experience that legacy in a new way, revealing how the Garden transforms after sunset.
For one evening, familiar paths will glow, science will feel playful and nature will take on a more energetic character, reminding visitors that discovery does not end when the sun goes down.

Encountering history: Guided cemetery tour highlights Revolutionary War-Era heroes, events

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Tuesday, 10 February 2026

Written by Anna White

Cross Creek Cemetery #1 is the oldest public cemetery in Fayetteville. Owned by the city of Fayetteville and founded in 1785, its sacred grounds hold the stories of Fayettevillians from days gone by. On Feb. 27, the eve of the 250th Anniversary of the Battle of Moore’s Creek Bridge, a local historian will guide visitors on a tailored tour of the cemetery.
Visitors will hear about the extraordinary lives of Revolutionary war soldiers buried or memorialized there and the ones who waited on the home front. The cemetery’s iconography and architecture provide additional glimpses into the past. One retaining wall that runs along the southern boundary of the cemetery is believed to be the oldest piece of construction still standing in Fayetteville today, according to DistiNCtly Fayetteville.
Fayetteville’s Lafayette Trail, a self-guided tour that commemorates American Revolutionary War hero the Marquis de Lafayette’s two-day Fayetteville visit in March of 1825, includes two stops on the cemetery grounds. Stop 10 highlights the Phoenix Masonic Lodge Number 8, and stop 11 highlights the grave of Isham Blake.
During his two-day tour of Fayetteville, the Marquis de Lafayette visited Phoenix Masonic Lodge Number 8. The Greek Revival structure, built in 1793 and rebuilt in 1858, is one of the oldest lodges in the state still in existence. Isham Blake served as one of General Lafayette’s bodyguards at the Siege of Yorktown in 1781. According to DistiNCtly Fayetteville, “the Siege of Yorktown was an American victory by a combined assault of American and French forces led by General George Washington, Marquis de Lafayette, and French General Comte de Rochambeau, over a British Army commanded by General Lord Cornwallis. This surrender caused the British government to negotiate an end to the War. After the War, Blake became a productive and respected citizen of Fayetteville.”
Other noteworthy figures buried or memorialized on the cemetery grounds include United States Representative J. Bayard Clark, United States Secretary of the Navy James C. Dobbin, Lieutenant Governor of North Carolina and United States Representative Charles Manly Stedman, and Revolutionary War Soldier Isaac Hammond.
Isaac Hammond, who was stationed at Valley Forge along with the Marquis de Lafayette during the winter of 1778, served in the Fayetteville Independent Light Infantry. According to Commemorative Landscapes of North Carolina, Hammond was “a free black barber in Fayetteville, was [the Fayetteville Independent Light Infantry’s] first fifer for over 30 years. During the Revolutionary War, he enlisted in the 10th Regiment of the North Carolina Continental Line.”
Throughout the history of the cemetery, it saw significant vandalism, leading to the installation of an eight-foot wrought iron fence around its perimeter. Additionally, deterioration led to major restoration efforts completed in 2017, at which time the city hired an artisan to reset headstones and repair cracks in monuments.
Now, the cemetery stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of those who occupy its sacred grounds. To learn more, attend Cross Creek Cemetery #1 American Revolutionary Tour. The free tour will be held on Friday, Feb 27, from noon to 1 p.m. Moderate walking is required, and parking is available along N. Cool Spring Street. Learn more at fayettevillenc.gov.

(Photo: The Fayetteville History Museum will be holding a tour at Cross Creek Cemetery #1 on Cool Spring Street. The museum holds tours at the cemetery several times a year. Photo courtesy of the Fayetteville History Museum's Facebook page)

Monster trucks roar to life at Crown, Feb. 14

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Tuesday, 03 February 2026

Written by Lena Simmons

Monster trucks are not just vehicles-they are 10,000 pound beasts that shake arenas and create memories fans carry with them for decades. Sport pulls people through raw power, theatrical personalities, and the concept of physics seems like a mere suggestion
—Andrea F on Unsplash, More Than Motors

The Crown Coliseum at 1960 Coliseum Dr. will bring the excitement with the Monster X Tour on Feb. 14. A Pit Party at will kick off at noon, and attendees can take a photo with a monster truck. Pit party passes must be accompanied by an event ticket. Guests can also experience riding a truck and get the ride of their life on board a monster truck.
The show times for the Monster X Tour are 1:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Standard admission tickets start at $29.25, and kids’ advance tickets are $28.60. A Family Four Pack starts at $33.60 per ticket. Pit Party tickets can be purchased for noon and 6 p.m. on Feb. 14. All tickets can be purchased at https://www.crowncomplexnc.com/events/detail/monster-truck.
“We are excited to welcome the Monster X Tour to the Crown Complex on February 14 for two amazing shows. The high- octane monster truck event delivers incredible action for fans of all ages, and we are proud to bring another unforgettable experience to the community,” said Gary Rogers, Director of Marketing.
Why are Monster Trucks so incredibly popular? It is due to the adrenaline-pumping sensory experience of trucks performing high-flying leaps, backflips, and car -crushing stunts. These family-friendly, loud, and action-paced events appeal to all ages, often featuring free-style competitions that bring childhood sandbox fantasies to life in a controlled environment. The sheer size of massive vehicles performing acrobatic stunts like donuts, wheelies, and backflips. A psychological and cultural connection for the love of bigness, power, and dominance, featuring iconic trucks like Grave Digger, which are also recognizable from toys and media.
Kids love monster trucks because of the sensory excitement of loud noises and bright colors. These invincible-seeming, massive trucks create high-energy action that is easy to get excited about. Monster Trucks are a symbol of power and strength. Trucks can crush, jump, and dominate other vehicles, allowing kids to feel a sense of adventure. The Pit Party feature of Monster X event serves as an accessibility and connection experience for kids. Getting a ride provides opportunities for children to see the massive machines up close, meet the drivers, and feel connected to the action.
The Monster X Tour takes place on Feb. 14, and as it is Valentine’s Day, it can also be a powerful opportunity to foster meaningful connections beyond romance by focusing on friendship and family. The Monster X Tour at the Crown Complex on Valentine’s Day is family and friendship bonding and connection for lifetime memories.
Create a family and Friendship meaning memory beyond romance for Valentine’s Day 2026. Experience the Monster X Tour with kids, family, and friends at the Crown Coliseum.