Insider favorites from the team who knows it best

If you’re worried about wandering into the Dogwood Festival unsure where to start, consider this your map to the good stuff! The staff at DistiNCtly Fayetteville have attended the Dogwood Festival more times than we can count—and we’ve got the mustard stains and lemonade cups to prove it.

So what do we look forward to every year? What makes us whisper, “Don’t miss this,” to our out-of-town friends? Here are eight can’t-miss moments—our tried-and-true Dogwood Must-Do’s—from the folks who live it, love it, and mark their calendars for it every spring.

1. Kick Off at Cork & Fork

If the Dogwood Festival had a secret handshake, it would be Cork & Fork. Held on opening night, this exclusive, ticketed event is your chance to sample mouthwatering bites from local restaurants, enjoy a cigar-rolling demonstration, and sip something special while supporting a great cause. Proceeds benefit Off-Road Outreach, a nonprofit supporting veterans in our community.

Tickets are limited, and they go fast—get yours here!

 

2. Lemonade: The First Rite of Spring

Ask anyone on our team, and you’ll hear the same thing: the lemonade is non-negotiable. It’s fresh-squeezed. It’s massive. It’s downright festival-famous. Grab one, take that first citrusy sip, and let it guide you on a food-fueled journey through rows of funnel cakes, deep-fried wonders, and savory surprises.

This is a whole event itself, with so many to choose from, who will win the love of your appetite this year?!

 

3. The Great Hay Street Stroll

A lemonade in one hand, and treasures in the other—vendor row along Hay Street is a dream for shoppers and strollers alike. Discover handmade jewelry, local art, home goods, and those “just one more gift” moments that always seem to find you.

Pro tip: One DF staffer swears by picking up holiday gifts here—yes, in April.

 

4. The Magic of Carnival Rides at Night

You don’t need kids in tow to enjoy this one (though their laughter adds to the soundtrack). The glow of the rides after dark, the scent of cotton candy in the air, and the echoes of childhood delight make this a nostalgic gem. Ride the Ferris wheel or simply take it all in. Either way, it’s a must.

Pro tip: The view from the top? Totally worth it.

5. Lawn Lounging with Good Vibes

Midday? Need a moment? Find a shady spot on the lawn and let the Dogwood Festival DJ set the tone. We’re talking feel-good music, great food nearby, and the kind of relaxing energy that makes you feel like time paused just for a little while.

Good food, good music, good vibes, this is Dogwood.

 

6. Free Live Music (That Feels Like a Concert Pass)

The Dogwood Festival brings some serious talent to town—and it’s all free. This year’s lineup includes national and regional acts spanning rock, country, and more. You’ll find us camped out by the stage, dancing with friends or discovering a new favorite band under the stars.

 

7. The Car Show (Even for Non-Car People)

You don’t have to be a gearhead to appreciate the Dogwood Festival Car, Motorcycle & Truck Show. These rides are polished, powerful, and packed with personality. It’s a walk-through gallery of chrome and creativity.

We’ve seen teens fall in love with vintage Mustangs and grandparents beam at restored classics. It’s multigenerational magic.

 

8. The Wing Cook-Off: It’s a Competition, But Also a Cause

The Cooking for a Cause: Wing Cook-Off is the ultimate combo—delicious food and community support. Local chefs and everyday grill masters face off to create the best wings on site. A portion of the proceeds support Marius Maximus Foundation and We Are One Big Family, two organizations doing meaningful work in Fayetteville.

Taste, vote, cheer. It’s all finger-licking good fun.

Your Must-Do Moment Awaits

We hope you’ll join us in experiencing what makes the Dogwood Festival so special. Whether you’re here for the music, the food, the fun, or the community, these must-do’s are the kind of moments that turn visitors into Dogwood regulars.

Stay tuned for more festival features—and don’t forget to follow us on Facebook and Instagram for next week’s blog boost, behind-the-scenes peeks, and festival giveaways!

 

Service Bell

View the full Dogwood Festival schedule and plan your visit -->