Families planning a Saturday outing can find holiday activities throughout Fayetteville on November 14 as Host of Christmas Past continues its two-day celebration.
The festival marks its 34th year in 2026. Its roots reach back to a Christmas open house at The Flower House, which grew as other businesses and organizations joined the tradition. Today, the event combines downtown shopping, music and family activities.
Saturday’s options include several free activities, along with attractions that charge admission or separate fees.
Children 10 and younger can join candy-cane hunts at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. on the west side of the courthouse lawn. Admission is free.
A synthetic ice-skating rink in Kids Village will be open from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Skating is free, and skates will be provided. Musical performances are scheduled at the courthouse lawn bandstand from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Families wanting professional photos with Santa can visit the west-side breezeway at Higgins Funeral Home between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. The cost is $30 for a digital image, with a print release included.
The Cumberland Presbyterian Church Faith Ringers will offer free handbell concerts at the Municipal Building at 9:30 and 10:30 a.m.
Because activities are spread among several locations and have different hours and prices, visitors should check the festival’s schedule and map before heading out. Times are Central. Organizer schedule · Festival background
Illustration by 931Go. Not an event photograph. No third-party photograph used. Credit 931Go.
