Entertainment

Hats, horses, mint juleps: Guide to a Kentucky Derby experience

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Tuesday, 28 April 2026

Written by Sheila D. Barker

The Kentucky Derby is more than just a horse race—it’s a cultural spectacle steeped in tradition, fashion, and Southern charm. Held each year on the first Saturday in May at Churchill Downs in Louisville, the Derby marks the thrilling first leg of the Triple Crown of Thoroughbred Racing. Known as “The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports,” the race itself may be brief, but the pageantry surrounding it lasts all day—and often all weekend.
First run in 1875, the Kentucky Derby was founded by Meriwether Lewis Clark Jr., the grandson of explorer William Clark. Inspired by European horse racing traditions, Clark envisioned an American event that would rival the elegance and prestige of races abroad. Over nearly 150 years, the Derby has evolved into one of the most celebrated sporting events in the United States, blending athletic excellence with rich customs.
From the singing of My Old Kentucky Home as the horses parade to the gate to the blanket of roses draped over the winning horse, each element carries symbolic meaning. Even the official drink—the mint julep—has become synonymous with Derby Day, with nearly 120,000 cocktails served at Churchill Downs each year.
One of the most beloved aspects of the Kentucky Derby is the fashion. Whether attending the race in person or hosting a watch party at home, dressing the part is half the fun.
For women, the statement piece is undeniably the hat. Oversized, colorful, and often adorned with feathers, flowers, or netting, Derby hats are bold expressions of personality. Think bright spring colors, floral prints, lace details, and flowing silhouettes. Dresses are typically knee-length or longer, with a polished yet playful aesthetic.
Men’s fashion leans toward classic Southern style with a festive twist. Lightweight suits in pastel shades, seersucker fabrics, or crisp linen are popular choices. Pair these with a patterned tie or bow tie, loafers, and—if you’re feeling adventurous—a coordinating hat.
The key is to embrace elegance while not being afraid to stand out. Derby style is all about confidence, charm, and a touch of whimsy.
Even if you can’t make it to Louisville, Kentucky, Derby watch parties bring the excitement closer to home. If you’re planning your own gathering, consider incorporating classic Derby elements:
• Serve Southern-inspired dishes like bourbon-glazed appetizers or tea sandwiches
• Set up a DIY hat station for guests
• Create a simple betting game for fun (no real wagering required)
• Play a live stream of the race and build anticipation leading up to post time
Decor can include roses, horse-themed accents, and a color palette of red, green, and gold to mirror the iconic Derby aesthetic.

Local Celebrations
Across community restaurants, bars, and event spaces are hosting Kentucky Derby watch parties that capture the spirit of the day. These gatherings offer a chance to dress up, socialize, and experience the excitement without traveling far.
Saturday, May 2
• Derby Party at Bunkers, 125 Whispering Pines Drive, Spring Lake, at 5 p.m.: Join Bunkers for an unforgettable Derby Day celebration. Indulge in classic Mint Juleps, savor delicious Derby Pie, and snack on pimento cheese sandwiches. Don’t forget to dress to impress— the fanciest hat will win bragging rights and exciting prizes. Gather your friends, place your bets, and prepare for a lively evening filled with great drinks, delectable food, and all things Derby. For more information, visit https://tinyurl.com/bde29jpv.
• Kentucky Derby Party at Little Heathen's Brewery, 3266 Ray Rd, Spring Lake, at 5 p.m.: Join Little Heathen's Brewery for the fastest two minutes in sports. Savor their delicious beers and refreshing Mint Juleps while you cheer on your favorite horse. As a veteran-owned and family-friendly establishment, they are dedicated to crafting exceptional brews and fostering a unique, welcoming atmosphere for our community. Come hang out, relax, and enjoy the experience. For more information, visit https://tinyurl.com/5btwp8vh.
The Kentucky Derby continues to captivate audiences year after year because it offers more than just competition—it’s an experience. It’s the thunder of hooves on the track, the sea of extravagant hats, the clink of julep glasses, and the shared anticipation of a two-minute race that feels like a grand tradition.
Whether you’re a lifelong fan or a first-time spectator, the Derby invites everyone to take part in its unique blend of history, fashion, and celebration.

Child Advocacy Center puts "fun" in fundraiser

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Tuesday, 28 April 2026

Written by Katie Herring

For the 10th consecutive year, on Saturday, May 2, The Crown Complex Ballroom will feature hit pop, rock, and Broadway music, accompanied by high-energy choreography, creative costumes, and plenty of fun for all ages. For two performances, the Ultimate Lip Sync Showdown will bring down the house as groups compete for prizes, all to benefit the Child Advocacy Center of Fayetteville.
Like the hit TV show, Lip Sync Showdown, people from our community will compete by performing lip-synced music of all styles. Audiences will enjoy the high-energy, fun-filled night of unique entertainment by their friends and neighbors. All the fun is for a great cause.
The Child Advocacy Center of Fayetteville serves the youngest and most vulnerable in our community. Their primary work is to conduct interviews to be used as evidence in legal cases, working with children who have been victims of child abuse and exploitation or have witnessed a crime. The goal of these interviews is to work to ensure that children only have to tell their story and relive their trauma once.
They also work to provide follow-up care to these children, in the form of counseling and connecting them and their families with other support resources. The CAC also does tremendous work in raising awareness to prevent child abuse and exploitation. They partner with schools, social services, and law enforcement in Fayetteville and Cumberland County to provide training and support to those who work closely with children of all ages.
While the work of the Child Advocacy Center is serious, the Lip Sync Showdown is all about fun. There are two performances on May 2: the matinee kicks off at 1 p.m., and the evening performance is at 7 p.m.
Both performances are family-friendly; the difference is who is onstage. The matinee features groups with performers under 18; the folks onstage in the evening performance are all over 18.
Fayetteville Academy is this year’s presenting sponsor and will have groups performing at both shows. The matinee will present a group of students, while the evening show will feature Academy teachers and staff.
In the matinee performance, a group of students from E.E. Smith High School will perform a piece from their recent production of The SpongeBob Musical. There will be a group of performers who are often seen on the Cape Fear Regional Theatre stage and a group of dancers from The Firehouse dance studio in Eastover.
A group of local homeschool students is performing for the first time, as well as Angela’s Musical Troupe, a group of young performers from Sampson and Harnett Counties led by Angela Martin. This is just a sampling of the line-up for the 1 p.m. performance.
The evening performance will feature a collection of adults from our community who you might not expect to see onstage but will nonetheless knock your socks off with their energy and their talent. Groups and organizations represented include Cape Fear Regional Theatre, Keller-Williams Realty, Rainbow Pediatrics, and Stephanie Kegler with Dancing Without Sin Fitness, who was last year’s winner.
Even the Child Advocacy Center staff will come out from behind the scenes and get onstage this year! Both performances promise to provide a high-energy, joyful night of entertainment and fun.
There are several different prizes awarded. In addition to the overall prize for the best performance, there are awards given for best choreography, best costumes, and best stage presence, among others. The overall winner from each performance walks away with a $500 cash prize.
On average, past Ultimate Lip Sync Showdown productions have raised around $40,000. Money is raised in several different ways for this event. First, performing groups have an entry fee ($25 for the matinee, $50 for the evening), and then they work to raise additional funds leading up to the event. Each group’s total fundraising amount factors into their score, though it is not the only determining factor of who wins.
There is an admission cost for the performances. Tickets to the matinee performance are $25, and the evening performance is $75 per person. Along with your seat at the performance, admission also comes with some treats.
The matinee performance will feature a dessert buffet at intermission, with treats donated by local bakeries. The evening performance will offer heavy hors d'oeuvres before the show begins and the dessert buffet at intermission.
There is a 50/50 raffle. Half of the amount raised in the raffle will go to the Child Advocacy Center, and the other half will go to the raffle winner. The amount that a person can win will depend on how many tickets are sold, but in years past, raffle winners have taken home over $1000 in cash. You do not have to be present to win the cash prize, as long as the staff has your contact information, which you give when you purchase tickets. Each performance group has raffle tickets to sell, or they can be purchased from the Child Advocacy Center office. They will also be available at the performances.
During each performance, there will be a People’s Choice Award, where the audience votes with their dollars for who they think is the best out of the lineup. As Karen Tisdale, event coordinator, says: “We will take your money in so many different ways.”
But that money is going to help do such important work in our community. The money raised at the Ultimate Lip Sync Showdown is “integral to the general operations budget” of The Child Advocacy Center. As a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, the Child Advocacy Center relies heavily on charitable donations and fundraising to ensure that they can continue to do their important work in Fayetteville and Cumberland County. What a great opportunity to enjoy an evening of unique entertainment while helping support the work of a critical organization.
To purchase tickets in advance, go to cacfaync.org and click on Upcoming Events. The big day is Saturday, May 2, at 1 p.m. (under-18 performers, tickets cost $25) and at 7 p.m. (grown-up performers, tickets cost $75), all at the Crown Coliseum Ballroom.

(Photo: The judges from the 2025 Ultimate Lip Sync Showdown from left to right: Michael Thrash, El'Ja, Ray Thomas, Nicki Hart, Michael Daughtry and Dominique Womack. The judging panel in 2025 are all creative voices in the Cumberland County and Sandhills region. Photo courtesy of Melissa Jane and the Child Advocacy Center of Fayetteville)

Celebrate mom close to home in Cumberland County

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Tuesday, 28 April 2026

Written by Sheila D. Barker

Mother’s Day is Sunday, May 10, and there’s no better time to celebrate the women who’ve shaped our lives with a day full of meaningful moments. Across the community, local venues are planning special events—from tea parties and brunches to live music and pop-up experiences—offering plenty of ways to make Mom feel cherished.
And if you’re searching for a gift that goes beyond the ordinary, our area’s boutiques, artisan shops, and small businesses are filled with one-of-a-kind finds you won’t see in big-box stores. Whether you’re planning a full day out or simply looking for that perfect, thoughtful surprise, this guide will help you create a Mother’s Day that feels personal, memorable, and truly special.
Getting Mom a Unique Gift
Here is a list of great local stores with unique gift ideas for Mom, as unique as she is.
A Bit of Carolina
306 Hay Street
910-551-6537
https://www.abitofcarolina.com
Discover a fantastic destination for high-quality, North Carolina-made products. Here, you'll find a diverse selection ranging from exquisite handmade pottery and glassware to delicious local jams, coffees, and specialty gift baskets. This is the ideal place to find items that genuinely reflect the spirit of the region.
The Downtown Market of Fayetteville
3005 Sigman Street
919-349-6062
https://thedowntownmarketfay.com/
In addition to their stunning floral arrangements, they provide unique "grazing boxes" and charcuterie boards—perfect additions to a Mother's Day brunch. They also offer custom event decor and a variety of thoughtful gift items.
Curate Essentials
1302 Fort Bragg Rd
910-920-4531
https://curateessentials.com/
This shop specializes in wellness and natural products, making it an excellent destination for high-quality dried herbs, thoughtfully curated self-care collections, and artisanal home goods. The shop is renowned for its carefully curated selection, which feels more personal and intentional than the typical offerings found in big-box retail stores.
The Pink Petunia
1325 Morganton Road
910-475-1111
https://tinyurl.com/zasbctej
This boutique specializes in custom art, professional embroidery, and unique gifts. It's the perfect destination for anyone seeking personalized items or high-quality home accessories. Recently, they launched "Little Petunia’s," making it an excellent choice for new moms or those shopping for children's gifts.
Celebrating Her with a Special Event
Saturday, May 2
• Lunch With Mom at Level 88, 5112 Yadkin Rd. at 1 p.m.
Join Level 88 for an afternoon of exquisite elegance, unparalleled style, and delightful competition. Their sumptuous lunch will feature a selection of delicate pastries, gourmet bites, fine aged cheeses, fresh fruits, artisanal sandwiches, and a fully stocked champagne and mimosa bar to toast the remarkable women in your life. Don’t forget to wear your most creative, grand, and beautiful hats for a chance to win magnificent prizes. Tickets are $40. For more information, visit https://tinyurl.com/22wp3rks.
Tuesday, May 5
• Boujee Barn Mother's Day Tea Party at Thompson Farm, 290 Browning Dr., Saint Pauls at 6 p.m.
Join Thompson Farm for the Boujee Barn Mother's Day Tea Party, featuring a delightful evening of dinner, desserts, and a fun take-home activity.
Explore a selection of pop-up vendors while you shop for unique treasures. Enjoy your meal served on exquisite antique china in their beautifully themed barn. Dress in your cutest and coziest attire as you celebrate friendship and create lasting memories. Bring your friends and make some new ones along the way. Tickets are $40. Registration is required. For more information, visit https://tinyurl.com/5fs3p7vs.
Saturday, May 9
• Mother's Day Weekend High Tea Party at Anchor Allie’s, 1204 Bragg Blvd. at 2 p.m.
Treat Mom to the perfect tea experience with a High Tea Buffet Garden Party. Step into a dreamy garden escape for an elegant afternoon filled with tea, delightful treats, and a beautiful ambiance. Dress in your high-tea best and immerse yourself in a charming social gathering featuring over eight exquisite tea selections and a lavish buffet of perfectly curated treats, including sweet, savory, and complementary bites. It’s the ideal afternoon to gather with friends, capture memories, sip tea, and indulge in a touch of elegance. Tickets are $30.52. For more information, visit https://tinyurl.com/frt34weu.
• Pop-Up Shop Mother's Day Weekend at Learn CPR Today, 3069 Cumberland Rd., Suite 102 at 10 a.m.
Treat Mom and shop local with the Mother's Day Pop-Up Shop. Shop local shops and vendors selling unique gifts, jewelry, accessories, candles, self-care items, sweet treats, baked goods, boutique, and specialty finds. Skip the crowded big-box stores and find something thoughtful and special. For more information, visit https://tinyurl.com/m57n7s92.
• Mother's Day Carriage Rides at City Center Gallery & Books, 112 Hay St. at Noon
Take a horse-drawn carriage ride in Historic Downtown Fayetteville on Saturday, May 9, from noon to 6 p.m. in honor of Mother’s Day. Make it a romantic date with your wife or load up your whole family to celebrate Mom. Carriages depart every 20 minutes.
Advance ticket purchase recommended, rides sell out early. Tickets $75, cash or credit card. Go by City Center Gallery & Books or call 910-678-8899.
• Mother's Day Roundup at Sweet Valley Ranch,
2990 Sunnyside School Rd. at 10 a.m.
Join Sweet Valley Ranch for their Mother's Day Roundup—a delightful celebration dedicated to honoring all the amazing moms in your life. Capture unforgettable moments with a charming highland calf during a special photo opportunity, and embark on engaging farm tours to explore the beauty of the ranch.
Experience the thrill of Dino Rides, and let the kids enjoy a variety of inflatables and other fun activities. Savor delicious bites and sweet treats from the Sweet Valley Ranch food truck.
Ticket prices are as follows: Mothers receive free entry with a paid child's admission, adults (ages 12 and up) are $15, children (ages 3 to 11) are $10, and children under 2 enter for free. For more information, visit https://tinyurl.com/ycwus4j8.
• CREATE IT! Mother's Day Makers Workshop at Ballash Woodworks, 432 B Cedar Creek Rd. at 10 a.m.
This Mother’s Day, give a gift that lasts longer than flowers—time spent creating together. Join Ballash Woodworks for a special Mother’s Day Makers Class, designed for moms and their loved ones. Whether you bring your mother, daughter, son, or a special friend, you’ll spend the day side by side, learning, creating, and crafting something meaningful with your hands.
This class encourages you to slow down and savor the process. No prior woodworking experience is necessary. You’ll be guided through a hands-on project from start to finish in a supportive and relaxed environment, with a focus on creativity, confidence, and shared experiences.
More than anything, this workshop is about connection. The conversations at the workbench, the small victories along the way, and the pride of creating something with someone you care about are what make this day truly special.
What to Expect: A full-day, guided makers workshop, beginner-friendly instruction, all materials and tools provided, a small group setting in a professional studio, quality time spent creating together, and a finished piece to take home.
To register for the class, visit https://bit.ly/4u0yCDs
Sunday, May 10
• Mother's Day Brunch Buffet at Anchor Allie's, 1204 Bragg Blvd. at 9 a.m.
Anchor Allie’s understands how special and meaningful Mother’s Day is and is committed to making this celebration truly memorable.
This year, they are pleased to offer their complete regular dine-in brunch, breakfast, and lunch menu. Additionally, they’re excited to introduce a Mother’s Day Brunch Buffet for those who wish to savor a little bit of everything. Buffet seating will be available from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Whether you prefer to order your favorites from the menu or indulge in the full buffet experience, they have the perfect way to honor the incredible moms in your life. For more information, visit https://tinyurl.com/4zs5r7bk.
• Mother's Day Celebration at WOB Bar & Kitchen, 1944 Skibo Rd. at 11 a.m.
Celebrate Mom this Mother’s Day in a way that truly honors her. Gather the whole family, unwind, and let WOB handle the cooking while you cherish quality time together. With kids eating free, everyone can indulge and make the day a little easier for Mom. Reserve your table early to ensure she has a Mother’s Day she’ll genuinely enjoy. For more information, visit https://tinyurl.com/37at6b8r.

Pig Pickin’: Fundraisin’ fun with Cape Beard

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Tuesday, 28 April 2026

Written by Katie Herring

On May 16, Fort Bragg Harley Davidson will become the hub for Cape Beard’s 14th Annual Pig Pickin’ fundraiser to benefit two local organizations that support those affected by autism. From 10 a.m. until 5 p.m., the dealership will transform into a family-friendly destination for good food, music, and fun for all ages.
The event is presented by the guys in Cape Beard, “a 501(c)3 beard and moustache club promoting the accolades of facial hair via competition and hosting events for local charities.” The club started in 2011 with 10 guys who enjoyed a beard competition show called “Whisker Wars” and decided to start a club, almost as a joke. Now, 15 years later, the club has grown to 20 active members and a regular slate of fundraising activities that benefit local charities. Current president Doug Cameron explains that members are required to have facial hair of some kind for at least nine months out of the year.
The Pig Pickin’ Fundraiser started in 2012 and in that time, has raised over $130,000. This year’s event promises to be as fun and delicious as any others. The food, of course, is the star of the show, with the great bearded ones working to prepare 750 pounds of pulled pork. The $7 plates also come with coleslaw, baked beans, and bread alongside the heaping helping of barbecue. Local favorite Chason’s is helping to provide the extras to go along with the club-made pork. In past years, they have come close to selling out and are hoping this is the year that there won’t be any leftovers.
Only cash is accepted to purchase food, but there is an ATM on-site. You don’t have to pre-order, just show up with cash in hand, grab plates for your crew, and enjoy.
But don’t plan to eat and run, as the event will provide lots of opportunity to hang out and enjoy a spring afternoon with family, friends, and neighbors. There will be live music throughout the day; several vendors will be selling their wares; there will be a bounce house and a kids’ obstacle course, even a dunk tank!
All proceeds from the Pig Pickin’ will go to two local organizations that benefit individuals and families impacted by autism. One organization is the School of Hope, a K-12 school that is dedicated to helping children on the autism spectrum. Opening in Fayetteville in 2017, The School of Hope works “to provide a holistic, opportunistic, positive education to students with autism in a nurturing environment leading to a positive and productive future for our students and their families.”
The other organization that will benefit from the proceeds of the Pig Pickin’ is the Autism Society of North Carolina. The mission of the Society is to improve the lives of people with autism, to support their families, and to educate communities in NC. The money that Cape Beard donates specifically goes to help pay for kids on the spectrum to attend a summer camp specifically designed for kids with autism.
Cape Beard’s commitment to helping out the local community is evident in how they spend the money raised through their events. They specifically choose to fundraise for organizations instead of for individuals. As explained by Cameron, this ensures that they know how the money they raise and donate is being used, because these organizations have financial records that provide for accountability. The club is very intentional about their fundraising dollars remaining in Cumberland County. While there are excellent and worthy organizations outside of our community, Cape Beard has made a specific commitment to focusing on helping local groups through their fundraising efforts. Since its inception, the annual Pig Pickin’ has always been used to benefit and help those affected by autism.
If there are those in the community who would like to lend a hand and some more dollars to the Pig Pickin’ there are ways to get involved beyond just buying food. The club is still accepting sponsors for the event. There are three levels of sponsorship: Silver Sponsors will receive a shoutout on Club Beard’s Facebook page, a poster, and a free vendor space for $200; Gold ($300), which will receive all that plus a 3x5 banner at the event and 2 plates of food; and the Platinum level ($500) which will receive all of the above plus a video promoting the business or organization, 2 t-shirts from the event, and a plaque recognizing their sponsorship. This is a great way to promote a business or organization while also giving money to a great cause.
For the first time, Cape Beard is offering annual sponsorships, which cost $1000 and make the donor a “top-tier” sponsor for all their fundraising events for the year. To become a sponsor, email capebeard@yahoo.com.
If you are interested in being a vendor at the event, there are still spaces available. Email the club at the address above or send them a direct message on Facebook to request the vendor worksheet.
The club is also seeking volunteers to help the event run smoothly. Any group or individual who would like to help on May 16 can reach out to Doug Cameron at 910-922-2448 or email capebeard@yahoo.com
With food, music, and community spirit all in one place, the 14th Annual Pig Pickin’ promises to bring together Cape Beard’s signature combination of fun and purpose. Whether you plan to buy a plate, become a sponsor, or volunteer your time, your contribution helps ensure that the School of Hope and the Autism Society of North Carolina can continue their vital work.

(Graphic courtesy of Cape Beard)