I always say August is a great time to sneak in a weekend getaway—even though it’s hot. It’s that moment when summer is winding down, but you’re not quite ready for back-to-school schedules or cooler weather. The days are long, the evenings feel alive, and it’s the perfect excuse to grab your favorite people for a few days of fun. I look for someplace that makes it easy, with a mix of indoor spots to cool off and plenty of places where you can just relax, sip something cold, and enjoy a change of scenery.
And this year, Fayetteville has everything I would be looking for. The 2025 Food & Music Festival – Beats & Eats Vol. 2 on August 23 is shaping up to be a perfect anchor for a weekend of good food, live music, and grown-up fun.
Staying close to Fayetteville’s downtown core makes the whole weekend easy—look for a hotel with amenities like walkable access to events, on-site dining, and comfortable spaces to relax between outings. Explore hotels near downtown here.
If I were planning a trip in, here’s exactly how I’d spend the weekend to make the most of it.
Friday:
After checking in and getting settled, I’d want to ease into the weekend—but honestly, Fourth Friday in Fayetteville always makes it tempting to jump right in. If you’re into comics, anime, or pop culture, the Nerd Market is where I’d start. It’s a lively scene with a DJ, food truck rodeo, and even a costume contest—perfect for browsing and people-watching.
Not feeling the comic book vibe but still want something lively? The Church Entertainment Lounge is another great Friday night option. They host World Class Cash Trivia on Friday nights, where you can test your knowledge (and maybe even win enough cash to cover a round or two at tomorrow’s festival).
Or maybe you’re looking for something more low-key after traveling. If that’s the case, The Livery Cigar Emporium is the perfect chill option. Settle in with a craft cocktail and even learn how to roll your own cigars—they’re happy to walk you through the process if you’re curious. It’s a relaxed, welcoming space and a great way to slow down and soak in the evening at your own pace.
However you spend it, Friday night is the perfect way to ease into Fayetteville’s energy before the festival fun begins.
Saturday:
Morning would start slow, with a good coffee and bite at Winterbloom Tea or Rude Awakening Coffeehouse. They’re both favorites for a reason—and perfect for easing into the day.
Before things get busy, I’d wander downtown a bit and stop by one of Fayetteville’s selfie spots, like the Love Locks Wall at Cursive. A perfect backdrop for a weekend getaway photo or two.
By early afternoon, it’s time for the main event: the 2025 Food & Music Festival – Beats & Eats Vol. 2 at Festival Park.
Tickets are available now, with options for general admission, VIP access, pre-set tent rentals, and even activity zone passes if you’re feeling adventurous. It’s worth planning ahead to lock in your spot for an afternoon filled with great live music, food trucks, and cold drinks—all in a lively, festival atmosphere.
After soaking up the festival energy—and hopefully discovering a few new favorite local bites—I’d keep the fun going into the evening. Latitude 35 Bar & Grill’s Sing-Along Music Bingo Night is the perfect way to wrap up a day of beats and eats. It’s casual, fun, and right in the spirit of the weekend.
Sunday:
Every good weekend needs a proper sendoff—but there’s no rush. This is definitely a sleep-in kind of morning, maybe take your time checking out and savoring those “we don’t have to hurry” vacation vibes.
Once midday rolls around, brunch at Napkins Restaurant would be my pick. Napkins doesn’t open until 12:30pm but trust me—it’s worth the wait. Their menu is chef-driven and focused on locally sourced ingredients and bold, creative takes on pub favorites. It’s one of those places where you know the food just wouldn’t taste the same anywhere else, because so much of it comes from right here in Fayetteville and the surrounding region.
After brunch, before heading out of town, I’d swing by Arsenal Park at the Museum of the Cape Fear Historical Complex. It’s an easy spot to stretch your legs, walk off some of the weekend’s amazing meals, and snap a few last selfies with Fayetteville’s historic backdrop—perfect for capturing a final memory or two before hitting the road.
