When Downtown Hurts, We All Feel It

Early in the morning of February 8th, 2026, our community experienced a devastating fire on Fayetteville’s historic downtown square—a place that represents far more than bricks and mortar. It represents livelihoods, legacies, and lifelong dreams.

In a matter of hours, several of our downtown merchants were faced with a reality they never expected. Businesses they poured their hearts into. Buildings that carry decades of history. Spaces that hold countless memories for our community—all impacted in one tragic event.

We work closely with these merchants. We know their stories. We know the sacrifices they’ve made to keep their doors open, the long hours, the slim margins, and the deep pride they take in serving Fayetteville. These are not just business owners—they are employers, volunteers, sponsors, and neighbors. They are the heart of our downtown.

While insurance will help in some areas, it does not cover everything. The needs facing these businesses and individuals are immediate and complex, including:

• Lost inventory and essential equipment

• Cleanup and stabilization costs

• Temporary relocation expenses so businesses can continue operating

• Lost income during closures

• Unexpected expenses tied to rebuilding historic structures

For some merchants, the coming weeks will determine whether reopening is even possible.

That’s why support from the community is so critical right now. This kind of support can truly be the difference between a business reopening its doors or closing permanently.

Fayetteville Main Street exists to strengthen, support, and preserve our downtown—and in moments like this, that mission matters more than ever. Our historic square deserves to continue thriving, and our merchants deserve to know they are not facing this alone.

We are deeply grateful to every individual, organization, and partner who has reached out, donated, prayed, volunteered, and stood beside our downtown during this difficult season. Your compassion reminds us why Fayetteville is such a special place.

Together, we will recover.
Together, we will rebuild.
And together, our downtown will come back stronger.

How You Can Help:

*Make a tax-deductible donation using the form below, in person at the Main Street office, or at any Bank of Lincoln County branch to the Fayetteville Main Street Fire Recovery Fund

*Purchase a barbecue plate from our Youth Leaders Council fundraiser taking place on February 19th. Meal donated by 2 Hicks with Sticks and cookie donated by Suzy Q Bakery

*Bogart's Cigar Lounge - $1 per cigar sold through February 14th

*Fayetteville Liquidation Center - 5% of proceeds through February 14th

*Taylor & Company - 10% of sales through February 14th and 100% of proceeds from $10 Clay by Christy earrings

*Sabghi Jewelers - Portion of proceeds from sales

*Star Wheels raffle - $5 single chance•$10 for 3 chances for a 27” GIANT LAVA LAMP - purple liquid & orange lava •$179.99 retail value •Free admission to Star Wheels for anyone who buys a chance •100% going to Lance and Juan

*The Revolutionary Tavern -  Brick by Brick Focaccia – $6 - Warm, house-made focaccia. A portion of every order goes directly toward rebuilding the South Side.

*Revolt Pack and Ship - 10% of sales through February 13th

*Main Street Grill - in person donations being collected as well as a $5 catfish plate fundraiser on February 25th from 3-7PM. Dine in or carry out!