Photos for promotional purposes
Fayetteville, NC - In September 2008, Cumberland County declared itself to be a sanctuary community for past and present members of the Armed Forces and their families. This means the community supports our military neighbors at Fort Bragg and welcomes them as temporary or permanent residents.
As neighbor to Fort Bragg, the largest military installation in the United States, Cumberland County offers plenty of opportunities to learn about the sacrifices of service members and their families. The community boasts military sites that illustrate military history, special events to say thank you to veterans and plenty of veteran-owned specialty businesses. The week leading up to Veterans Day is an optimal time to visit and experience each of these assets.
Heroes Homecoming VII
The seventh annual Heroes Homecoming celebration is dedicated to acknowledging the service and sacrifice of our country’s brave active duty service members, veterans and their families. From November 7-11, 31 partners will hold 22 events, making Heroes Homecoming one of the largest Veterans Day gatherings in the country.
Marquee events during this year’s celebration include the following:
• Spouses in Military (SiM) Expo - Fayetteville State University - Nov 7
• Operation: THRIVE - Rick’s Place - Nov 8
• Veterans Day Parade - Downtown Fayetteville - Nov 9
• Veterans Day 5K & 1 Mile Run - Festival Park - Nov 10
• Rolling Thunder Motorcycle Rally - Fort Bragg Harley-Davidson - Nov 11
Military History
While Fort Bragg has played a large role in modern military history, Cumberland County has military ties back to the Revolutionary and Civil War eras. For instance:
- In June 1775, 55 local patriots signed the Liberty Point Resolves, declaring their lives and fortunes to securing our freedom from Great Britain. This early declaration of independence was signed more than a year before the nation’s Declaration of Independence.
- Destroying the Fayetteville Arsenal, which made ammunition for the Confederacy, was General Sherman’s first objective on his march through the Carolinas. Once he destroyed the arsenal, his army faced one of the last Confederate offensives at the Battle of Averasboro.
This history, along with modern military history and the related sites to visit, are mapped out on the Patriot’s Past & Present cultural Heritage Trail. The bureau also offers a comprehensive list of all military sites. Military Sites to See.
Veteran-Owned Businesses
Some former service members and their families choose Fayetteville as their home and the location of their small business. The Fayetteville community is an active, vibrant community. Here are a few veteran-owned businesses that offer visitor and resident services that enhance the community’s tourism offerings.
Fayetteville Pie Company – Enjoy North Carolina’s “Best Pie” according to Tasting Table. Open for lunch Monday through Saturday, Fayetteville Pie Company serves a savory and a sweet pie for each meal. The menu changes each day. Current Menu
Dirtbag Ales - While working as an Army medic on the night shift at a military hospital, Vernardo “Tito” Simmons-Valenzuela traded the promise of free beer for life in exchange for a friend’s home brew kit. Today, with Tito as the Brew Master, Dirtbag Ales uses locally sourced products to create a variety of standard and seasonal brews. Blood Orange Kolsch is one of three of Dirtbag Ale’s flagship beers. They recently launched the Homecoming Pilsner. Dirtbag Ales recently opened a new 8000-sq-ft. family and pet-friendly destination brewery in Hope Mills.
Spring Lake Outpost – Veteran-owned Spring Lake Outpost, a river adventure and outdoor learning experience , opened in 2018 in Spring Lake. Owners recognized the need for an outdoor adventure activity in northern Cumberland County and wanted to share the beautify of the Little River with everyone. The outpost offers 3.5-, 6- and 12-mile excursions. They provide canoes and kayaks and offer a shuttle service for an easy return trip.
The Fayetteville Area Convention & Visitors bureau is ready to help plan your trip. Head to www.VisitFayettevilleNC.com or call them at 1-888-98-HEROES for assistance.
About Fayetteville Area Convention & Visitors Bureau (FACVB)
The FACVB is a private, not-for-profit organization responsible for positioning Cumberland County as a destination for conventions, sporting events and individual travel. For additional information, visit www.VisitFayettevilleNC.com or call 1-888-98-HEROES.