'Making memories:' Fayetteville kicks off 36th annual Dogwood Festival

It's the fourth weekend in April, which that means downtown Fayetteville is the place to be.

The 36th annual Dogwood Festival is underway, featuring rides, live entertainment and the classic fair food, such as the famous Philly Cheese Steak.

The Fayetteville Dogwood Festival was voted Event of the Year for 2017 for the eight states in the Southeast.

Around 250,000 people attended last year’s three-day event.

Festival organizers said they take pride in the fact that the Fayetteville Dogwood Festival is organized with children and families in mind.

“I have memories of my childhood coming out here with my family, and I love leaving that legacy for other patrons and other members in our community,” festival executive director Carrie King said. “Making memories, that’s what my father always used to say, and that’s what Dogwood is all about. We bring free fun to Fayetteville.”

It’s a good idea to attend the festival early, as the city of Fayetteville has decided to charge for parking in three of its six parking lots.

WRAL News is a proud sponsor of the Fayetteville Dogwood Festival.

Kathryn Brown: 12 p.m. -3 p.m.                          

Lena Tillett: 3 p.m. - 6 p.m.    

Renee Chou and Jeff Hogan: 12 p.m.- 3 p.m.   

Gilbert Baez: 3 p.m. - 6 p.m.