Every year, I try to remind military families who are new to the Fort Bragg and Fayetteville area that this community goes all in during the holiday season. From late November through Christmas, something is happening almost every single day. Most events are either free or inexpensive, which is helpful when you are on a budget or juggling travel, kids, and deployments.
Here is a look at what Fayetteville has planned this year and why these events are worth adding to your list.
The Holly Day Fair
This kicks off the season at the Crown Complex. This one already took place earlier in November, but keep it in mind for next year because it is one of the biggest events in the area. More than 150 vendors fill the building with gifts, crafts, home items, and local treats. It is an easy place to shop for teachers, co-workers, or family without running all over town.
A Dickens Holiday
Downtown Fayetteville transforms into a Victorian-style market on November 28. You will see horse-drawn carriages, street performers, and characters like Scrooge and Tiny Tim. There are handmade gifts, holiday food, fireworks, and the lighting of the city tree. If you want a classic Christmas vibe without traveling far, this is it.
Holiday Lights in the Garden
Cape Fear Botanical Garden already looks beautiful during the day, but during December it turns into a glowing walk-through light show. The trails are filled with twinkling lights, themed displays, and photo spots. Santa and The Grinch make appearances too. This is one of the most peaceful holiday events in the area and perfect for kids.
Fayetteville Holiday Lights at Segra Stadium
Segra Stadium has more than two million lights, interactive displays, holiday snacks, and places to take pictures. It feels more like a full experience rather than a quick walk-through. They add new displays each year and it is easy to make this a tradition.
Festival of Lights at Sweet Valley Ranch
If you want a drive-through option, Sweet Valley Ranch offers a long route filled with massive displays, over a million lights, and more than 350 animals including reindeer. There is also a life-size nativity scene. This is a good choice for families with younger kids or anyone who wants to enjoy the lights without walking.
The Flea Drop in Eastover
If you have never heard of this, yes, it is exactly what it sounds like. Eastover rings in the New Year by lowering a giant ceramic flea named Jasper at midnight. It is funny, unique, and something you can only see in this part of North Carolina. If you like local traditions, this is a fun one.
Why These Events Matter for Military Families
This time of year can feel lonely when you are living away from home, missing family traditions, or going through a deployment. Events like these give you a reason to get out of the house, try something different, and feel connected to the community. You do not have to spend a lot of money and you can find something for every age and interest.
If you attend any of these events, tag me or send a message. I love hearing what families enjoyed and what should be added to next year’s list.
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Army Wife 101
Krystel is the mom of two and an Army Wife. In addition to Army Wife 101 she is the Co-Founder of SoFluential.com a digital media agency that connects brands with the military market. She has appeared on MSNBC ,FOX LA and formerly was a weekly contributor to HLN's "Raising America". She has written for various outlets including Sheknows and Lifetime and is a big fan of cupcakes and french fries.
Krystel is the mom of two and an Army Wife. In addition to Army Wife 101 she is the Co-Founder of SoFluential.com a digital media agency that connects brands with the military market.
She has appeared on MSNBC ,FOX LA and formerly was a weekly contributor to HLN's "Raising America". She has written for various outlets including Sheknows and Lifetime and is a big fan of cupcakes and french fries.