Fayetteville Dogwood Festival

The Dogwood Festival is Fayetteville's premier spring celebration, drawing over 100,000 attendees to downtown each April. This free, family-friendly event showcases live entertainment, carnival rides, food vendors, and community spirit.

Festival Overview

Key Details

• Name: Fayetteville Dogwood Festival
• Year: 43rd annual in 2025
• Dates: April 25-27, 2025
• Location: Festival Park and downtown Fayetteville
• Admission: Free
• Hours: Friday 5-11 PM, Saturday 12-11 PM, Sunday 12-6 PM

Pre-Festival Event

Cork and Fork (Thursday, April 24):

• Food and wine celebration
• Festival Park venue
• Exclusive for sponsors and ticket holders
• Kick-off to festival weekend

Festival Attractions

Live Entertainment

Multiple stages featuring:

• Regional and national musical acts
• DJ performances
• Local talent showcases
• Continuous entertainment all weekend

Carnival and Rides

Midway attractions including:

• Traditional carnival rides
• Games and prizes
• All ages attractions
• Separate kids ride area

Food Experience

Culinary offerings:

• Over 20 food trucks
• Festival favorites
• Local vendors
• Diverse cuisine options

Vendor Marketplace

Shopping throughout the festival:

• Arts and crafts
• Local businesses
• Unique merchandise
• Hay Street vendor row

Special Events

Car, Motorcycle, and Truck Show

Vehicle enthusiasts enjoy:

• Classic cars
• Custom motorcycles
• Trucks of all types
• Awards and recognition

WWE-Style Wrestling

Athletic entertainment:

• Wrestling matches
• Family-friendly action
• Professional performers

Kids Zone

Free children's activities:

• No tickets required
• Age-appropriate activities
• Safe play areas
• Entertainment for young ones

Festival Map and Areas

Festival Park

Main venue featuring:

• Main stage performances
• Food court area
• Kids zone
• Central gathering space

Hay Street

Downtown corridor with:

• Vendor booths
• Street entertainment
• Shop and restaurant access
• Pedestrian-friendly atmosphere

Carnival Grounds

Ride area providing:

• Midway attractions
• Game booths
• Ride ticket purchases
• Evening light shows

Planning Your Visit

Getting There

• Location: Downtown Fayetteville centered on Festival Park
• Parking: Free parking in downtown lots and garages
• Traffic: Expect increased traffic; arrive early

What to Bring

Essential items:

• Cash for vendors and rides
• Comfortable shoes for walking
• Sunscreen and sun protection
• Water bottles (refill stations available)
• Blankets for lawn seating

Tips for Families

Make it enjoyable for everyone:

• Establish meeting points
• Set a spending budget
• Take breaks during long days
• Use free kids zone
• Plan for weather changes

Festival History

Origins

The Dogwood Festival began in 1982:

• Started as community celebration
• Named for blooming dogwood trees
• Grew to become city's signature event
• Now attracts visitors regionally

Traditions

Annual favorites include:

• Consistent April weekend timing
• Free admission policy
• Community involvement
• Downtown location

Economic Impact

Community Benefits

The festival provides:

• Tourism dollars to local businesses
• Exposure for downtown Fayetteville
• Vendor opportunities
• Employment during event

Local Business Participation

Downtown benefits through:

• Increased foot traffic
• Restaurant business
• Shop visibility
• Hotel stays

Practical Information

Weather Considerations

April in Fayetteville:

• Typically pleasant spring weather
• Afternoon thunderstorms possible
• Check forecasts before attending
• Some covered areas available

Accessibility

Festival accommodations:

• ADA accessible areas
• Accessible parking
• Flat surfaces in main areas
• Assistance available

Safety and Security

Event management includes:

• Security presence throughout
• First aid stations
• Lost and found services
• Emergency procedures

The Dogwood Festival brings Fayetteville together each spring for one of the region's best free community events. Mark your calendar and join over 100,000 neighbors celebrating in downtown Fayetteville.