Fall is my favorite time of the year, and 45% of Americans agree. With its leaves, crisp air and fall festivities, autumn represents a transformation with all its beautiful colors and, let’s be honest, a cooler season.
Being from the Midwest, I couldn’t wait for the change of leaves, bonfires, football and other fall-time gems. I thought I’d lose autumn when I moved to the South, so imagine my excitement when I discovered all the fall fun and festivities in and around Cumberland County.
Of the many family activities to explore, the first is Gallberry Corn Maze, located on 5991 Braxton Road in Hope Mills. While the family-owned farm just wrapped its 2024 season, it’s a can’t-miss fall event for next year, with offerings to include hay rides, corn mazes, fire pits, farm animals and jumping pillows for the young and young at heart. Another family favorite is the Downtown Pumpkin Trail hosted by the Downtown Alliance. This is a free self-guided tour throughout Fayetteville’s Historic District, where carved corporate-sponsored pumpkins adorn the streets. Oct. 31 is the last day to enjoy the trail for the fall season!
If you’re looking for an autumn date night, the Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra (FSO) has something for everyone. “Handel’s Water Music Suite,” on Nov. 23, will feature 20 musicians performing classical chamber music. FSO also hosts a new series called Symphony on Tap, which allows listeners to sip on beer in a fun and leisurely setting.
For delicious local offerings, make sure you have dinner at Circa 1800 located in downtown Fayetteville. This cozy and eclectic restaurant sources locally and frequently changes its menus so you can expect a new experience every time!
With all this fall fun, you must bake in some self-care with Yoga and Beer located at Dirtbag Ales. For $12 a person, you can downward dog and half moon with a sense of ease, and after aligning your chakra, enjoy a well-crafted ale. Before you leave, make sure that you stop by the Dirtbag Ales Farmers Market; vendors provide locally grown fruits, vegetables and homemade preserves from the area. This farmers market, with food trucks, live bands and a playground for the children, will end by Nov. 21 so don’t miss it.
If you’re able to drive to the Triangle, take the family hiking along the 22 miles of trails and forests at the William B. Umstead State Park. The park offers camping, picnicking, canoe rentals, fishing, a visitor center nature study and 13 miles of horseback and mountain biking.
Fall activities can be found around every corner. Be sure to take in the fun!
