Entertainment

Fayetteville Marksmen back for 2024-25 Season

34Marksmen Hockey is back, and the excitement kicks off on Oct. 19! Head to the Crown Coliseum as the Fayetteville Marksmen hit the ice for the first time in the 2024-25 season. The opening game promises to be a thrilling face-off against their rival, the Roanoke Rail Yard Dawgs, starting at 6 p.m.
This season opener is set to unveil a fresh, new game presentation complete with all-new videos, graphics, and other surprises. Make sure to stick around after the game for a special opportunity to skate with the players. For the full season’s schedule visit https://marksmenhockey.com/schedule/.
Attending a Fayetteville Marksmen game is more than just watching hockey—it’s an experience. From bone-crunching hits to high-energy plays, every game promises action-packed, glass-shattering excitement. Crown Coliseum offers the perfect backdrop for fans to immerse themselves in the thrill of live hockey.
In addition to the on-ice action, fans can expect a host of game-day activities, including interactive fan zones, delicious food and beverages, and special events throughout the season. Whether you’re a die-hard hockey fan or new to the sport, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Here are some highlights of their season promotions:
• November 2-Dia De Los Muertos
• November 16-Disney Night
• December 21-How the Grinch Stole Hockey
• December 28 Wizardry Night
• January 25-Star Wars Night
• February 22-Heroes Night
• March 16-St. Patrick’s Day
For a full list of promotion nights visit: https://tinyurl.com/bp4wzjes
It’s not too late to grab your season ticket package for the 2024-25 season. Full and half-season plans are still on sale, with payment plans available to suit any budget. Being a season ticket holder means you’re not just a fan—you’re part of the Marksmen family.
Season ticket holders enjoy exclusive benefits, including priority seating, special events, and discounts at the team store. Don’t miss out on the chance to be a part of every thrilling moment of Marksmen hockey. For information on season ticket packages visit: https://marksmenhockey.com/tickets/season/ Single game tickets are also available at: https://marksmenhockey.com/tickets/single-game/
The Fayetteville Marksmen are more than just a hockey team—they are a committed community asset. Veteran-owned and operated by Union Pro Hockey Group, the Marksmen are dedicated to providing premium entertainment to families and individuals in Cumberland County and the surrounding areas.
Throughout the season, the team engages with the community through various events, charity initiatives, and youth programs. Supporting the Marksmen means supporting a team that gives back to its community and strives to make a positive impact both on and off the ice.

Zombie Walk Fayetteville 2024: A night of undead fun

24Kick off your night by transforming into the ultimate zombie with a complimentary zombie makeup session! From 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., talented makeup artists will be on hand to turn you into the creepiest, spookiest zombie in town. Whether you’re going for a gruesome ghoul or a subtle undead look, they’ve got you covered.
This is your chance to get creative and let your undead alter-ego shine. With professional makeup artists ready to work their magic, you’ll feel like you’ve just stepped out of a horror movie. Make sure to arrive early to secure your spot for this popular feature!
The Zombie Walk Fayetteville 2024 on Oct. 25 isn’t just about looking the part; it’s also about feeling the vibe. From 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m., enjoy the electrifying tunes of The Phoebes, who will be setting the tone on the Person Street Stage. Their energetic performance is sure to get your undead heart pumping.
But the fun doesn’t stop there! From 8:30 p.m. to 10 p.m., The Several Devils will take the stage to keep the party going. With their captivating melodies and infectious energy, they’ll provide the perfect soundtrack to your night of undead revelry.
One of the highlights of the evening is the Zombie Processional, scheduled from 8 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Join a horde of fellow zombies as you shuffle, moan, and groan your way through downtown Fayetteville. This spine-tingling march through the streets is a sight to behold and an experience to remember.
Feel the excitement build as you become part of a massive, moving wave of undead participants. Whether you’re leading the pack or following behind, the Zombie Processional is a must-see spectacle that brings the community together in a delightfully creepy fashion.
The Zombie Walk Fayetteville 2024 also boasts a vibrant marketplace with over 60 vendors offering a variety of unique goods. From eerie crafts and spooky decor to delicious treats, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Don’t forget to check out the food trucks, serving up a range of tasty options to satisfy your hunger. Whether you’re craving something sweet or savory, the diverse selection will leave your taste buds dancing. Make sure to take a stroll through this haunted marketplace and discover all the hidden gems it has to offer.
This year’s event promises electrifying entertainment that will captivate attendees of all ages. Don’t miss the thrilling performances by Ring Wars Carolina Pro Wrestling, taking place at the corner of Hay St. & Ray St. Watch as skilled wrestlers put on a show that’s sure to leave you on the edge of your seat.
The Zombie Walk Fayetteville 2024 is designed to be family-friendly, so bring the kids and enjoy a night of safe, spooky fun. With a variety of activities and entertainment options, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Get ready to embrace the undead spirit and make memories that will last a lifetime.

(Photo: Photo courtesy of Fayetteville Zombie Walk and Prom’s Facebook Page)

Child Advocacy Center hosts Pinwheel Masquerade ball

19The Child Advocacy Center is hosting its annual Pinwheel Masquerade Ball and Silent Auction to raise money to “unmask child abuse.” This year’s event will be held at the charming Carolina Barn located at 7765 McCormick Bridge Rd, Spring Lake on Oct. 12 from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Tickets range from $75 to $1,200 and can be purchased online at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2024-pinwheel-masquerade-ball-auction-to-unmask-child-abuse-tickets-954135694547?aff=oddtdtcreator. Several sponsorship opportunities include event perks including comp tickets and VIP access. Sponsorships range, and all amounts are accepted and appreciated. Those interested can sponsor pinwheels, auction boards, drinks, coffee, and more. For more details on becoming a sponsor visit the website, https://www.cacfaync.org/how-to-help/pinwheel-masquerade-ball.html.
The Pinwheel Masquerade Ball and Silent Auction is an important fundraising event for CAC and provides sponsors with a night of elegance and elaborate masks while bidding on items donated by community partners.
Marking the 11th year, this year’s event is set to be as successful as years past. Five Star Entertainment will be providing the music for the evening, setting the mood of sophistication from beginning to end for guests as they mingle and browse the selection of auction items.
Guests will have a variety of food and drinks to select from, as several local restaurants and brewers are participating including Anchor Allie’s, Southern Coals, Burney’s Sweets, Bees & Boards, Healy Wholesale, Tropical Smoothie Café, Pan, 7 Brew, Bee Sweet, Gaston Brewing Company, Nona Sushi, Superior Bakery, and The Sweet Palette.
As the newest addition to the CAC, Executive Director John Webster has been amazed at the work and effort that goes forward into making this event possible.
“It has been a positive experience so far, but I will say that the size and scope of the event is enormous and it requires a great deal of precision and planning in order to ensure a successful event,” Webster said.
Although a massive undertaking, the Pinwheel Masquerade Ball and Auction is an effort that more than pays off for the center, helping to fund its community initiatives and resources provided to the community at large. It is also a great event to highlight all the people, businesses, and organizations that make CAC’s work year-round possible.
“This event is a fun-filled evening that will include lots of fun for all attendees. There will be plenty of food and drinks for all, along with a DJ who will emcee the event. There will be music and dancing for those who are interested, along with a silent and live auction of baskets, trips, etc. There will also be a mask contest and a fun photo booth. This event is a tremendous fundraiser for the CAC and community participation and engagement is critical to the success of the event. We encourage the community to support this event as proceeds from the event directly impact the work of the CAC and the children we serve on a day-to-day basis,” Webster explained.
The Child Advocacy Center would like to thank this year’s sponsors.
Champions for Children
Cape Fear Valley Health and Kids First Pediatrics
Alliance Health
Five Star Entertainment
Healy Wholesale

Hallowe’en Revels: Poetry and Prophecy at the Poe House

20Discover a unique Halloween celebration at the 1897 Poe House, where history and theater intertwine to create an enchanting evening. From Oct. 17-19, and 24 and 25, ‘Hallowe’en Revels: Poetry and Prophecy’ offers guests a chance to step back in time and witness a series of short vignettes that bring early 20th-century cultural norms, traditions, and poetry to life.
This is not your typical haunted house experience. Instead of scares, you’ll be treated to an immersive theatrical performance that highlights the customs and atmosphere of Halloween as it was celebrated over a century ago. With limited group sizes, the experience is intimate and engaging, ensuring each guest feels a part of the historical narrative.
The event is made possible through a partnership with Sweet Tea Shakespeare, a renowned local theater company known for its captivating performances and dedication to the arts. Their collaboration brings an added layer of authenticity and theatrical flair to the night tours, making ‘Hallowe’en Revels: Poetry and Prophecy’ a standout event in the community.
Sweet Tea Shakespeare’s expertise in live theater ensures that each vignette is performed with precision and passion, transporting guests to a time when Halloween was both a celebration and a moment of reflection, steeped in poetry and prophecy.
As you walk through the 1897 Poe House, you’ll be surrounded by turn-of-the-century decorations that perfectly capture the essence of an early 1900s Halloween. The setting is meticulously designed to reflect the late Victorian period, adding to the overall authenticity of the experience.
Guests will witness historical Halloween traditions and customs, gaining a deeper understanding of how this holiday has evolved over the years. From period-appropriate poems to cultural practices, the night tours offer a fascinating glimpse into the past, making it a memorable experience for all ages.
Experience a Historical Halloween
“Halloween from the late 1800s into the early 1900s was very much based around love, future prediction, and the spiritualism movement. Many activities practiced at Halloween parties during this time period were based around predicting the future love lives for young women and men,” said Victoria Peck, 1897 Poe House Coordinator.
These customs often involved various forms of divination and were rooted in folklore and traditions from different cultures, notably those of Scotland and Ireland.
One fascinating practice that has its roots in Scotland is the game of ‘3 Luggies’ or ‘3 Dishes.’ The tradition involved a young woman, blindfolded, who would dip her hand into one of three bowls to predict her future love life.
Each bowl represented a different outcome: an empty bowl meant she would be single for the rest of her life, a bowl with clear water signified a happy marriage, and a bowl with discolored water foretold widowhood. Variations of this practice exist, but they all center on predicting one’s future romantic fate. Keep a look out for this interesting tradition during the tour.
Another intriguing tradition was the Mirror Game. In this ritual, a young woman would look into a mirror at midnight on Halloween while holding a candle. The belief was that the face of her future husband would appear in the reflection.
Like many Halloween divination practices, the Mirror Game had various versions, but the core idea remained the same: using the mystical power of Halloween night to glimpse into one’s romantic future.
The 19th century saw a significant rise in the spiritualism movement, which heavily influenced Halloween traditions. Spiritualism was a belief system that emphasized communication with the spirits of the dead, often through mediums and séances.
This movement added a layer of mysticism and supernatural intrigue to Halloween, making it a night not only for predicting love but also for connecting with the spiritual realm.
20aWhat to Know Before You Go
Tickets for ‘Hallowe’en Revels: Poetry and Prophecy’ can be purchased in advance through Eventbrite or at the door, subject to availability. Purchase tickets online at https://tinyurl.com/mrxd3hzd. To ensure you secure your preferred time slot, it’s recommended to book ahead. Time slot exchanges may be possible, but arriving on time is crucial as late arrivals cannot be admitted once the tour begins.
Each group is limited to 15 people to maintain an intimate setting. Guests should arrive at least 15 minutes before the show starts and be prepared to walk, stand, and navigate stairs for the duration of the 30-minute performance. This is not a seated event, so comfortable footwear is advisable.
Proceeds from ticket sales directly fund the event and other programs at the 1897 Poe House, ensuring the preservation and continued celebration of its rich history. By attending ‘Hallowe’en Revels: Poetry and Prophecy,’ you’re not only enjoying a unique theatrical experience but also supporting the ongoing efforts to maintain this historical landmark.
The Poe House, with its storied past and cultural significance, remains a vital part of the community. Events like these help keep its legacy alive, allowing new generations to appreciate and learn from its historical treasures.

(Photo: The 1897 Poe House hosts “Hallowe’en Revels: Poetry and Prophecy with Sweet Tea Shakespeare. Photos courtesy of 1897 Poe House)

Local Fall treats: Find your perfect Fayetteville pumpkin

16One cherished autumn tradition for families is visiting pumpkin patches to select the perfect pumpkins for carving, painting, and decorating. Below is a list of nearby patches you might consider exploring.

Gallberry Corn Maze
5991 Braxton Rd, Hope Mills
910-309-7582
https://gallberrycornmaze.com/attractions/
Gallberry Corn Maze spans 12 acres of pure, farm-inspired entertainment, offering nearly 20 exciting attractions for the entire family. Don’t miss the chance to explore some of these delightful activities before or after your visit to the pumpkin patch.

Gross Farms
1606 Pickett Road, Sanford
919-498-6727
https://www.grossfarms.com/fall
At Gross Farms Corn Maze & Pumpkin Patch, a historic 7th-generation North Carolina Century Farm, there are activities to delight visitors of every age. Wander through the expansive corn maze, revel in the thrill of selecting your own pumpkin, and take a leisurely hayride around their bustling farm.

 Gillis Hill Farm
2701 Gillis Hill Rd
910-867-2350
https://www.gillishillfarm.com/
Explore Gillis Hill Farm, a ninth-generation marvel where guests can wander through historic grounds, partake in engaging agritourism experiences, and select the ideal pumpkin.

Pates Farm Market
6411 Raeford Rd
910-426-1575
https://patesfarmmarket.com/
During the autumn season, Pates Farm Market offers an array of pumpkins, vibrant mums, colorful pansies, hardy cold crops, and festive Halloween yard decorations.

Nazro Farms
145 Bettie Hamilton Lane, Spring Lake
https://www.facebook.com/nazrofarms
Gather your family and head over to Nazro Farms, where the pumpkin patch is now open for the season. Enjoy a day filled with vibrant vendors, delectable food trucks, and a delightful array of pumpkins and mums. Don’t miss out on the fun farm activities, including the challenge of navigating through a sprawling 6-acre corn maze.

Hubb’s Farm
10276 US Hwy 421 North, Clinton
910-564-6709
https://www.hubbsfarmnc.com/fall-festival-corn-maze-pumpkin-patch/
Hubb’s Farm welcomes visitors during the fall season, offering an exciting array of events and activities. Highlights include the famous 10-acre corn maze, a vibrant pumpkin patch, engaging farm animal encounters, and many other fun attractions that create memorable experiences for families and friends alike.

Local & Near By Apple Picking
A fantastic autumn pastime is harvesting apples. Enjoy the picturesque fall farm views while collecting fruit to create an array of mouthwatering recipes.

Millstone Creek Orchards
506 Crossroads Church Rd, Ramseur
336-824-5263
https://www.millstonecreekorchards.com/
Picking apples at Millstone Creek Orchard is a heartwarming way to make memories that last. The orchard invites you for an Apple Pickin’ Adventure, where you’ll enjoy harvesting your own fruit, soaking in the fall scenery, and experiencing other autumn delights. From hayrides to cider pressing demos and refreshing apple cider slushies, there’s something for everyone. Join the fun and create unforgettable moments in this picturesque setting.

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