Families across Cumberland County are invited to step into a world built just for kids at Little Land: BIG Play for Families, hosted by Partnership for Children of Cumberland County. Mark your calendars for Saturday, March 14, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Crown Expo Center. And the best part? This high-energy, memory-making day is completely free for families.
From the moment guests arrive, Little Land lives up to its name — where tiny humans have BIG fun. The first 300 children through the doors will receive a free superhero cape, setting the tone for a day filled with imagination, adventure, and plenty of photo-worthy moments. Families can strut their stuff down the event’s Red Carpet, with photos later shared on Facebook, or capture a keepsake at the on-site photo booth to take home the same day.
Inside, the Expo Center transforms into an ultimate kid-powered adventure zone. “Jumbo Land” features oversized obstacle courses and larger-than-life activities that let children climb, jump, and explore in a safe, energetic environment. For younger participants, a separate Tot-Sized Jumbo Land ensures little explorers can play comfortably at their own pace. Free train rides, pickleball fun, face painting, hands-on creativity stations, story time, and playgroups with Kaleidoscope Play & Learn round out the action-packed lineup.
Families can also head over to Safety Land, where local safety experts make learning interactive and engaging. The Fayetteville Police Department will be on site with an impressive array of hands-on experiences, including meet-and-greets with law enforcement officers, a visit from Buster the mascot, drone demonstrations, forensics activities, crime prevention tips, and the chance to meet Archie the K-9. Children can even explore a police motorcycle up close — an experience sure to spark curiosity and excitement.
Character Land brings beloved characters to life for unforgettable photo opportunities, while hourly scavenger hunts add an extra layer of adventure. At 10:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m., and 1:30 p.m., families can join age-appropriate hunts for a chance to win one of four exciting prizes. Participants who find the “picture of the hour” and race back to the rainbow arch could take home giveaways designed to keep kids active all year long.
And yes — there are giveaways galore. From books to games and other treasures, many children will leave with something special in hand. Organizers promise mess-free creativity for parents, big-energy play for kids, and the kind of happy-tired smiles that only come after a day well spent.
Beyond the fun, Little Land supports an important mission. One hundred percent of proceeds from the event benefit the Partnership for Children of Cumberland County, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization funded through Smart Start, NC Pre-K, grants, tax-deductible donations, and community support. The organization works to ensure every child in Cumberland County has the opportunity for a strong start in life.
Bring your little explorer, embrace the extreme cuteness, and come play the Little Land way — where fun is kind of a BIG deal. The Crown Expo Center is located at 1960 Coliseum Dr. For more information on the Partnership for Children, visit their website at https://ccpfc.org/.