There is a specific kind of magic that happens in the summer months when the golden hour hits at the Cape Fear Botanical Garden, located at 536 N. Eastern Blvd. As the summer heat begins to mellow, the Garden transforms into a lush, tranquil sanctuary. This season, that experience is getting an upgrade with the Sip n’ Stroll event series, a perfect blend of local craft beverages, live music, and scenic beauty.
The Sip n’ Stroll series is a relaxed celebration of the state’s best liquid craftsmanship. Kicking off the summer on June 4, the Garden welcomes the Fayetteville fan-favorite Dirtbag Ales. Known for their "step away from the status quo" mentality, Dirtbag will be offering a selection of their finest, including their signature brews, Blood Orange Kolsch and Cold Brew Mocha Porter. For those looking for variety and to try something new, they will also have cider and other seasonal selections available to sample.
If wine is more your speed, mark your calendars for July 2 and Aug. 20, when Thistle Meadow Winery takes center stage. Located in Laurel Spring in the western part of the state, the winery has a standing partnership with Cape Fear Botanical Garden. These evenings offer a curated tasting of local wines, allowing you to sample the diverse notes of North Carolina viticulture while wandering through the Garden’s 80 acres of pine forest and ornamental gardens.
While the beverages and the gardens are the major draw, Sip n’ Stroll is designed to be a full sensory experience. Local singer-songwriter Josh Murray will be providing the soundtrack for the evening. A regular at venues like Haymount Truck Stop and Bound and Vine, Murray’s acoustic guitar and soulful vocals provide the ideal backdrop for a garden walk.
In a unique partnership, FTCC massage therapy students will be on-site to offer free chair massages, included with the cost of admission. It is the ultimate way to decompress after a long summer day.
This isn't just an event; it's a gathering. It’s a space to meet fellow craft beer enthusiasts, support local artists, and enjoy the "community vibes" that make Fayetteville special.
The Sip n’ Stroll events take advantage of the Garden’s extended summer hours, with the gates remaining open until 7 p.m. on Thursdays. This extra time allows visitors to explore the scenic, walkable routes at a leisurely pace without the midday sun.
Admission Details:
• Standard Adult Admission: $12.00 + tax.
• Discounts: Available for military members, seniors, and EBT cardholders.
• For more information, check out the website at capefearbg.org
The summer Sip n’ Stroll is just the beginning. The Garden has a robust calendar in the works for the remainder of the year, including garden trivia nights, hand-sewing lessons, and exclusive after-hours tours with expert guides.
Whether you are a dedicated craft beer fan or just looking for a peaceful Thursday evening escape, the Cape Fear Botanical Garden Sip n’ Stroll is the place to be. Grab a friend, soak in the atmosphere, and discover why life is better in the Garden.