When the sun is shining and the temperature rises in Fayetteville, there's no better place to be than strolling through the vibrant Downtown area. The charming streets lined with shops, restaurants, and outdoor art make for a perfect day out. But did you know that parts of downtown are also a part of the Social District, where you can enjoy alcoholic beverages in designated areas?
Imagine sipping on a cold, refreshing beverage while lounging in a beautiful outdoor space. Now imagine being able to legally enjoy an alcoholic drink in that same space or walk around with it. That's the magic of a social district - an area where individuals can partake in a tasty beverage sold by a licensed seller. And as of November 14, 2022, the City Council has given their stamp of approval for the creation of a Social District ordinance, allowing for this fun and unique experience to be enjoyed by all.
The essence of Fayetteville's Social District is to create a vibrant communal space that blurs the lines between dining, socializing, and exploring. The Social District concept is about transforming the way we experience our city's downtown area. This innovative approach not only enhances the social atmosphere but also fosters a deeper connection between visitors and local establishments. By allowing guests to take their drinks from one spot to another, the district encourages exploration, conversations, and the discovery of new favorites.
The Downtown area boasts a number of restaurants and breweries that participate in this unique program. When you purchase an alcoholic beverage from one of these venues, you'll be handed a specially designed cup that's exclusively reserved for use within the boundary lines of the Social District.
When it comes to enjoying your favorite beverage in the Social District, there are a few rules you'll want to keep in mind. First and foremost, take note of the designated hours of operation - you can quench your thirst Monday through Saturday from noon to 10 p.m., and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
If you plan on quenching your thirst with some alcoholic refreshments in the Social District, make sure to finish them within the designated area. In accordance with local regulations, any unfinished drinks must be properly disposed of before leaving the district. However, if you plan on returning to the same establishment where you originally purchased the beverage, you are permitted to hold onto it for a little longer.
To see the Social District map visit the Fayetteville City’s website at https://tinyurl.com/4xz6wmev
It's important to note that once you have an alcoholic beverage, you cannot simply stroll into another restaurant or brewery that serves alcohol. It's also worth mentioning that not every establishment in the downtown area is participating in the Social District program, so be on the lookout for a sticker in their window that will indicate whether or not you can bring your drink inside. With these guidelines in mind, you'll be able to navigate the Social District with ease and enjoy a delicious beverage at the appropriate spots.

Businesses where you can purchase alcohol:

• The Sip Room
• Bright Light Brewing Company
• Bruce’s Sportsblock and Lounge
• Winterbloom
• Pierro’s Italian Bistro
• Blue Moon Cafe
• Gaston Brewing Company
• Cameo Art House Theatre
• The Livery Cigar Emporium
• Archway Burgers, Dogs, and Beer
• Coffee Scene at the Prince Charles
• Hay Street Kitchen and Rooftop
• Vibe Gastropub

 

Businesses where alcohol is allowed:

• Ravens Nest Tattoo and Cranium Company
• Reverie Goods & Gifts
• American Barbershop
• Garnet Skull
• Hummingbird Candle Co
• The Sweet Palette
• PRESSED
• City Center Gallery & Books
• Stevies
• Arts Council of Fayetteville/Cumberland County
• A Bit of Carolina
• Momma’s Village of Fayetteville
• Washington Apparel Company
• Malzone Marketing Inc
• Cursive
• Fayetteville Wellness Center
• Greater Fayetteville Chamber
• Turner Lane
• Fabulous Finds Boutique
• Bails for Tails Thrift and Donation Store
• Blanc Coffee Roasters

Businesses where alcohol is not allowed:

• Fascinate-U Children’s Museum
• Edward Museum
• Tyson Commercial Real Estate
• Ray, O’Connor, Coleman & Halverson, PLLC
• Elevo Dynamics
• U.S. Army Airborne & Special Operations Museum
• The Capitol Encore Academy
• Rising Phoenix Counseling Services, PLLC
• Rude Awakening Coffee House
• Skyview on Hay
• Tone Pilates
• United Hay Street Methodist Church
• DBI
• Circa 1800

There truly is no season like summer for taking full advantage of what Fayetteville's Social District has to offer. As the sun bestows its golden hues upon the city, transforming the downtown into a lively canvas of activities, the area becomes a bustling hub of enjoyment. During these warmer months, the extended daylight hours invite you to leisurely meander through the streets, cold beverage in hand, without the rush of an impending sunset. It's a time when the energy of the city syncs perfectly with the laid-back, yet vibrant atmosphere of the Social District.