By Erin Pesut
Fun Things to Do: Inside, Outside, even on a Rainy Summer Day
May 7: The Lantern Fest @ Fayetteville Motor Speedway
Don’t miss this one-night event full of music, s’mores, family-friendly activities and a paper lantern launch at sundown to illuminate the human spirit. There will be hundreds of glowing lanterns lifting up into the dark night sky. What an incredible sight! For more information visit www.thelanternfest.com.
May 10: Butterfly Hunt @ Cape Fear Botanical Garden
Butterflies love the garden, so come out and learn the difference between butterflies and moths. Here you will learn more about their unique and you will even learn the best techniques on how to use a butterfly net while searching for the coolest caterpillars and most beautiful butterflies. Pre-registration is required
Until May 15: Fort Bragg Fair @ Fort Bragg (Howell Street off Bragg Boulevard)
This annual event that is open to the public takes place every spring. Unlimited rides and entertainment are included in one admission price. Gates open at 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and at 1 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. Parking is free. http://bragg.armymwr.com/us/bragg/ft-bragg-events/fort-bragg-fair?eID=386293.
May 27-30: WRAL Freedom Balloon Festival @ Fuquay-Varina
Try something different this summer! Instead of paper lanterns, this festival is all about hot-air balloons. There will be local food vendors, competitions, tethered balloon rides, evening balloon glows and live music. For more information visit www.wralfreedomballoonfest.com.
July 4: Fort Bragg’s 4th of July Celebration @ Main Post Parade Field
The fourth of July celebrations at Fort Bragg cannot be rivaled! This annual event between 3:00 p.m. and 10 p.m. is free and open to the public. There will be music, parachute free-fall demonstrations, the popular flag ceremony, food and drink and, of course, fireworks. Arrive early and make sure to wear your patriotic colors. Check out our red, white and blue dessert ideas to bring along with you. For more information, please visit http://bragg.armymwr.com/us/bragg/ft-bragg-events/4th-july-celebration?eID=386689.
August 6: Everything on Wheels @ Crown Expo Center
For a rainy day, this event is for anyone who loves wheeled vehicles! Can you think of someone? Anything from cars, trucks, bikes, golf carts, RV’s, ATV’s and more will be on display. There will even be a car show and interactive displays.
Throughout the Summer
SwampDogs Baseball @ J.P. Riddle Stadium
When the sun is shining, enjoy America’s favorite pastime right here in our own backyard! For the full schedule, ticket prices and more information, visit www.goswampdogs.com.
