FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. — Families from across the region gathered at the Crown Complex for the Follow the Spectrum Autism Festival 2026, a community-centered event that blended resources, activities, and support into a day designed specifically for children on the autism spectrum and their families.
Organizers estimate that more than 1,000 guests attended between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., marking continued growth for the annual event. Despite temperatures rising above 90 degrees, families filled the outdoor space throughout the day, participating in activities and connecting with providers and vendors.
Children could be seen throughout the festival wearing red superhero capes, a signature element of the event’s theme focused on empowerment and inclusion. Free items were distributed across multiple stations, including capes, toys, tiaras, fidget items, stickers, access to a hands-on craft area and plant and gardening section. A “treasure box” station allowed children to select free toys, supported in part by donations from Five Below in Clinton, N.C.
Resource providers and organizations were present to connect directly with families seeking professional services, while vendors offered a range of creative products, many tailored to autism awareness and sensory needs. Food vendors like JLNL Eatz, Made with Love Cakery, and Taste of the Islands remained active throughout the event, with Wisdom Water Ice serving as a popular stop as attendees looked to cool down in the heat.
Activity areas hosted by Sound Sensory Therapeutic Playhouse and Dick’s Sporting Goods provided interactive experiences for children, adding to the day’s mix of engagement and recreation.
The event was supported by a network of volunteers and community partners. Members of the Methodist University football team assisted with setup and breakdown, while volunteers from the TWO SIX Project helped manage operations throughout the day. Event design elements, including the entrance balloon arch and themed sections by Treasure Chest Venue as well as a special section for freebies decorated by So Plush & Co. Events.
Follow the Spectrum leadership credited this year’s success of the festival to both community participation and organizational support. The nonprofit’s leadership team of superheroes includes Kyle Johnson, CEO; Kres Thomas, President; Elijah Cox, Vice President; Lynda Jarmon, Executive Administrative Assistant; and Candy Olivares, Director of Resource Development.
The festival continues to build on its mission of promoting autism awareness and neurodiversity while creating a space where families can access resources, feel supported, and celebrate their children in an inclusive environment. Organizers noted that the Crown Complex has remained a valued partner in hosting the event as it expands it’s offerings each year.
Sponsors for the 2026 Autism Festival include lead sponsor Breaking Barriers Behavioral Services, as well as major sponsors: BrightBridge ABA, Ben Stout Construction, Epic Minds Therapy, Sweet Valley Ranch, Inspired Horizons, Kind Behavioral Health, Community Connections ABA Services, Action Behavior Centers, Brighter Strides ABA, Supportive Care ABA, Autry Behavioral Consultants and Resources, Almeida Behavioral Therapy, Butterfly Effects, Truth Behavioral Health, Prosperity Path LLC, FayToday News, and WatchOut Cumberland County NC.
