I don’t know about you, but I’ve been so thankful to finally get a break from the sweltering heat of this year’s summer.
And as the leaves turn yellow, orange and red, I’ll be cozying up with a warm drink, a soft sweater and this year’s “Fall in Fayetteville” magazine.
CityView’s September issue reflects on end-of-summer festivities and gives a glimpse at the months to come, highlighting new features at a beloved local ranch and exploring other activities to enjoy this fall.
On Aug. 23, the Umoja Group, a nonprofit organization dedicated to celebrating Black and African American culture, arts and history, held its 33rd Annual Umoja Festival at Seabrook Park. The group that created the “Wall of Honor” mural on the corner of Langdon Street and Murchison Road works with Fayetteville State University’s Sapphire Dance Team, E.E. Smith High School’s marching band, the Magnificent Marching Machine, Cape Fear Valley Health and others to bring a day of unity.
If you were hoping to have an autumnal staycation, we’ve got just the place for you. Across town, off Interstate 95, a 300-acre plot of land opened its doors to overnight guests earlier this year. Sweet Valley Ranch now offers four cozy cabins to stay in for extended visits. Fred and Anita Surgeon’s ranch and story is filled with family heritage, love and dedication to the land.
Originally published by North Carolina Rabbit Hole, a newsletter exploring the state by journalist Jeremy Markovich, the next story takes us on a journey outside Fayetteville to Carver’s Falls and the zip line adventure park above it. Like Markovich points out, the summer heat can make exploring the area uncomfortable, but with the cooling temperatures of fall, now’s the perfect time to sightsee.
Cape Fear Valley Health’s Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation Services and HealthPlex give patients a new lease on life as they recover from lifesaving heart procedures. Hear from two patients and the director of cardiopulmonary rehab & vascular health about how their services make an impact in a sponsored feature.
Senior Columnist Bill Kirby Jr. takes us to the Airborne & Special Operations Museum and the iconic old Virginia live oak tree, the Liberty Tree, along Hay and Hillsboro streets. ASOM held an event on Aug. 16 to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the tree and unveil its permanent historical marker.
Our columnists this month explore what fall reminds them of: The first thinks of the upcoming municipal elections and past voter turnout. Another remembers a multitasking mishap and how she’s slowing down from the daily grind this season. Our bilingual columnist previews — in English and in Spanish — the 47th International Folk Festival on Sept. 26-27 and its Fiestas en la Calle celebration, which includes a special Latino Show. The last invites you to fall in love with the Marquis de Lafayette as the nation continues to celebrate its 250th anniversary by recommending six books about Lafayette.
Our September To-Do List is sure to keep you entertained this month with events at Cape Fear Botanical Garden, the Crown Coliseum, Fayetteville State University, Fayetteville Technical Community College, Methodist University and so many other places.
Were you at the Arts Council of Fayetteville/Cumberland County for the Opening Reception of Where the Wild Becomes Divine art exhibit on Aug. 1? We may have spotted you for this month’s Seen @ the Scene.
Thanks to this month’s magazine, my fall bucket list has grown — I hope yours has, too. And I’m looking forward to stepping outside, enjoying the crisp fall air and exploring everything Cumberland County has to offer.
Thank you for reading!
Editor’s note: An earlier version of the “Camp HEAL” feature in the August 2025 “Back to School” magazine incorrectly attributed Morgan Casey as the photographer. The photography was contributed by Rockfish Camp and Retreat Center. The article has been updated with the correct photography credit. CityView apologizes for this error.
To find your nearest CityView newsstand, click here. And did you know you could get CityView Magazine mailed directly to you for just $1 a month? Now you do. Sign up for a year’s subscription for only $12 here.
Read CityView Magazine’s “Fall in Fayetteville” September 2025 e-edition here.
