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Tuesday, 17 June 2025
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Written by Sheila D. Barker
2025 Hope Mills Independence Day Kickoff
Hope Mills is gearing up for a grand celebration as it hosts the Independence Day Kickoff event at the Hope Mills Municipal Park. The event promises a family-friendly atmosphere filled with fun, excitement, and patriotic spirit. Scheduled for Saturday, June 28, from 5 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., this celebration is the perfect way to start your Independence Day festivities.
Attendees can expect an evening packed with enjoyable activities, live entertainment, and delicious food. Residents of Hope Mills and visitors from out of town can experience what this event offers: a fantastic opportunity to gather with friends and family to celebrate our nation's independence.
Music lovers are in for a treat with live performances by Whiskey Pines and Dalton Davis. Whiskey Pines, an Americana/country/rock acoustic act from Southern Pines, NC, will kick off the evening with their soulful tunes. Following them, Dalton Davis, a talented singer/songwriter from Mamers, NC, will take the stage to keep the festive mood alive.
These live performances are sure to create a lively and enjoyable atmosphere, enhancing the overall experience of the Independence Day Kickoff celebration.
Food enthusiasts will have plenty to look forward to with more than 15 food trucks offering a variety of delicious options. From savory bites to sweet treats, there's something to satisfy every palate.
Food trucks in attendance will be xQuisito, International Foods & Catering, Kona Ice, Vicious Pig BBQ, Harmon’s Deutsche Küche, Wild Sunflower Pizza & More, Festival Desserts Ice Cream, Fried Haven, Carolina Fish Fry Co, Shae's Confections, The Candi Queen, LATIN FLAVOURS STREET CUISINE, Rolling Tacos Pupusas, C&S Ice, Jaz-N-Soul, and Tropical Sno- Fayetteville.
In addition to the food trucks, there will be a variety of vendors in attendance, offering a range of products and services. Vendors that are expected to be there so far are Wee Folks Gardens, Fulfillity Books & More, Doughlicious Cookies & Sweets, Sweet Carolina Delights, The Honest Sourdough Co., The Bear Cave, Kia Love Studios, Fairy Hair by Maddy, and the Hope Mills Homeless Advisory Committee.
To get a description of what each vendor sells, as well as an update on any added vendors, visit https://tinyurl.com/39dcj5d8.
The Independence Day Kickoff event is designed to be a fun-filled experience for the entire family. Kids can enjoy activities like face painting, a petting zoo, and a fun slide. There's never a dull moment.
These activities provide the perfect opportunity for children to engage in creative and interactive play, making the event enjoyable for attendees of all ages.
The highlight of the evening will undoubtedly be the spectacular fireworks show, set to begin at 9 p.m. This dazzling display of lights and colors will light up the night sky, providing a memorable conclusion to the Independence Day Kickoff event. In the event of a cancellation due to weather, the fireworks will be rescheduled to June 29 at 9 p.m.
Make sure to find a good spot to watch the fireworks and enjoy this breathtaking finale with your loved ones. It's the perfect way to cap off an evening of celebration and fun.
Independence Day Luncheon Cookout
Mark your calendars for a special celebration that honors both our nation's independence and the cherished bonds of family. The Hope Mills Parks & Recreation Department and the Recreation Advisory Board are excited to present the Senior Independence Day Luncheon Cookout.
This unique event invites seniors to bring their children and grandchildren, fostering an atmosphere of connection and joy. Taking place on July 2 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Municipal Park located at 5766 Rockfish Road, Hope Mills, this cookout promises to be a heartwarming celebration of freedom and togetherness.
Senior residents are treasured members of the community, and this event is designed to acknowledge their contributions while providing an opportunity to create new memories with loved ones.
The Senior Independence Day Luncheon Cookout is more than just a meal; it's a day packed with activities that will bring smiles to the faces of all ages. From lawn games that spark friendly competition to music that gets everyone up and dancing, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
The event will feature a range of classic games that are sure to evoke nostalgia and joy. Whether guests are playing horseshoes, tossing a frisbee, or engaging in a round of corn hole, the emphasis is on fun and community. Picnic tables will be available for those who prefer to sit back, relax, and enjoy the festivities.
No cookout is complete without mouth-watering food, and the Senior Independence Day Luncheon Cookout will not disappoint. The Parks & Recreation Staff and volunteers will be grilling up a storm, offering a delectable selection of bar-b-que favorites including hot dogs, hamburgers, and chicken. These classic cookout staples are sure to satisfy your taste buds and fuel your fun.
Complementing the main dishes are sides catered by Southern Experience, ensuring a well-rounded and delicious meal. Whether you're a fan of traditional coleslaw, baked beans, or something a little more unique, the catered sides will add an extra layer of flavor to your holiday feast.
Music is a universal language that brings people together, and the event's DJ will be spinning a delightful mix of oldies and modern hits to keep the energy high. The music will be a highlight of the day, both for those who want to dance and for those who prefer to sit back and listen.
For those who love to dance, the Community Room in the recreation center will be open for line dancing sessions. These sessions are a fantastic way to get moving, have fun, and share some laughs with friends and family. Don't miss the chance to show off your moves or learn some new ones!
Tickets for this event are $15 for residents who are 55+ and $20 for non-residents 55+. For seniors wishing to invite their grandchildren, family, or friends, there is a $25 fee for a family of up to four members for residents and $30 for non-residents. If more than four members register, a $10 fee will be added. Register and purchase tickets here: https://tinyurl.com/43fh345d.
The heart of the Senior Independence Day Luncheon Cookout is the opportunity to connect with others and celebrate the sense of community that makes Hope Mills special. This event is a wonderful chance for seniors to spend quality time with their grandchildren, other family members, and friends in a fun and relaxed setting.
In today's fast-paced world, taking the time to come together and celebrate shared values is more important than ever. The cookout is designed to bridge generational gaps, foster new friendships, and strengthen the bonds that hold our community together. Gather loved ones and join for a day that promises to be filled with laughter, love, and lasting memories.
2025 Hope Mills Independence Day Parade
Hope Mills concludes their Independence Day celebrations with a grand parade on Friday, July 4 at 10 a.m. The parade will kick off at Rockfish Elementary School, located at 5763 Rockfish Rd., Hope Mills, and conclude at Hope Mills Middle School at 4975 Cameron Road, Hope Mills. The route will take participants and spectators through Rockfish Rd., turning right onto N. Main St., and then left onto Cameron Rd. before finally arriving at Hope Mills Middle School.
Make sure to arrive early to secure a good spot along the route. This year’s parade boasts an exciting lineup of participants that represent the vibrant Hope Mills community. Leading the parade will be Stanley Steemers, the event's main sponsor.
Other notable participants include VFW Post 10630, Carolina Assault Softball, Hope Mills Chamber of Commerce, Eggs Up Grill, and Team River Runner. These groups, along with many more, will bring their unique flair to the parade, making it a delightful experience for all attendees.
Registration is open until June 20 for those interested in joining the parade. For more information, visit https://www.townofhopemills.com/349/Independence-Day-Celebration
To fully enjoy the Hope Mills Fourth of July parade, plan to arrive early and bring essentials like sunscreen, water, and comfortable seating. Scope out the best viewing spots along Rockfish Rd., N. Main St., and Cameron Rd. to ensure a great view of the parade.
Engage with the participants, take plenty of photos, and soak in the community spirit. Don’t forget to check out the post-parade activities and explore what Hope Mills has to offer. This is a day to celebrate freedom, community, and the joy of coming together.
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Tuesday, 10 June 2025
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Written by Sheila D. Barker
Step into the enchanting world of quilting at the Festival of Quilts, where over 100 exquisite quilts are on display. This art and cultural show features judged quilts from across North Carolina, celebrating the rich tradition and creativity of quilting. Put on by the Tarheel Quilters Guild, the festival will take place over two days- Friday, June 13, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday, June 14, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The Freedom Christian Academy Sportsplex, at 3130 Gillespie Street, will be hosting the event. Tickets are $7 at the door with a credit card or cash as accepted payment. Children 12 and under are free.
With the event judged by the esteemed Scott Murkin, participants and visitors alike can expect to witness some of the finest quilt artistry. Winners will be presented with ribbons for 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and Honorable Mention.
“We have beautiful handmade ribbons for the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and Honorable Mention winners. There are twelve special awards, such as Best in Show, Best Original Design, and Best Use of Color. The Arts Council of Cumberland County has generously sponsored those ribbons with a cash prize,” Tarheel Quilters Guild member Amy Allison said.
The festival promises an immersive experience with guild members showcasing their quilts and answering any questions, all while donning their signature white gloves. There’s something magical to discover at every corner of this festival for avid quilters and those who appreciate the beauty of textile art.
The Festival of Quilts is not just about quilts; it's also a fantastic opportunity to meet some of the most talented quilt designers. Annette Ornelas of Southwind Designs, a prominent local and national pattern designer, will be present. Known for her unique curved designs and engaging workshops, Annette offers insights into the intricate world of quilt pattern design.
Visitors will also have the opportunity to engage with other local designers, gaining inspiration and possibly even picking up new techniques to incorporate into their own quilting projects.
For those who love shopping, the festival features a vendor mall with 18 local vendors offering a variety of quilting supplies and handmade items. The boutique promises 300 unique treasures, perfect for adding a personal touch to your home or as gifts for loved ones.
In addition to quilting supplies, the event includes sales of quilting books and magazines and even enticing raffle baskets. For just one dollar per ticket, you can enter for a chance to win a beautiful basket, making the shopping experience even more exciting.
The Festival of Quilts offers a plethora of activities and attractions that are perfect for the entire family. With concessions provided by Freedom Christian Academy Sportsplex, featuring a variety of delicious options like chicken nuggets, hamburgers, hot dogs, and more, there’s something to satisfy everyone's taste buds.
For non-quilters, there are vendors like Veronica's Doggie Delights and Puzzles with a Purpose, ensuring that everyone finds something to enjoy.
Founded in 1981, the Tarheel Quilters Guild has been dedicated to promoting and perpetuating the art of quilting. With around 75 members, the guild is a vibrant community of quilting enthusiasts who share a passion for this timeless craft.
“We have a free sew day at the College Lakes Recreation Center on Rosehill Rd on the fourth Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. We bring our machines and will give tips and tricks on sewing and quilting to anyone who stops by. We are sometimes seen at the 4th Friday events downtown and the CityView's Food, Wine, and Art event in October at the Botanical Gardens,” said Allison.
The Festival of Quilts is a testament to their mission, providing a platform for showcasing the incredible talent within the community and beyond. The guild welcomes seasoned quilters and curious newcomers to join in celebrating the art of quilting and the community spirit it fosters.
“Quilting is a great way to express yourself, whether as an art wall hanging or something to give comfort to someone. I think during the pandemic, many people discovered hobbies as self-expression and a way to give back. Our guild donated 339 quilts to the Cape Fear Valley Neonatal Unit last year and 120 quilts to the Veterans Hospital in February 2025. The art of quilting has evolved significantly in the past few years with modern quilting. This has also been seen as a way to advocate for social causes,” said Allison.
For more information about the Guild, visit their website at tarheelquilterguild.org
(Photo: Quilts such as this one will be on display during the Festival of Quilts, held at Freedom Christian Academy Sportsplex beginning June 13. Photos courtesy of Amy Allison)