As the pollen returns and temperatures rise, sweet treats to beat the heat will soon be in high demand. 

Luckily, businesses around Fayetteville and surrounding areas are now available to help. 

• Big T’s Snowballs

Big T’s Snowballs and Ice Cream Shop, located conveniently beside Hope Mills Lake, opened for the season on March 12.

Established in 2000 by Timmy (Big T) and Donna Gray, Big T's is a locally owned business located in the heart of Hope Mills. With a menu featuring hotdogs, chili cheese fries, ice cream, snow cream and their area famous New Orleans style “snoballs” are now available for the spring and summer season. 

Big T’s also announced that as of March 25, 2024, that their hours of operation have expanded and they are now open from 12 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. seven days a week!

Learn more about Big T’s and their menu on their Facebook page here and their website here. 

• Gillis Hill Farm 

Located at 2701 Gillis Hill Rd in Fayetteville, Gillis Hill Farm incorporates family fun, history, and education in one place, along with some of the most delicious ice cream you’ll ever eat. The family ice cream shop opened officially on April 1 and will be open Monday to Saturday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Featuring rotating  flavors such as  Vanilla, Chocolate, Cookies and Cream, Mint Chocolate Chip, Banana, Butter Pecan, Pumpkin, and Mocha, the first flavor of the month, cookie dough was announced on the Farm’s Facebook page. 

With farm tours also available, Gillis Hill will provide hours of entertainment and tasty treats for the whole family. 

Learn more about Gillis Hill Farm on their Facebook page here and on their website here. 

• Sunset Slush of Fayetteville

Sunset Slush of Fayetteville is now open once again, fully stocked and ready to provide a little piece of “paradICE.”

Located at 3712 Ramsey Street in Fayetteville, Sunset Slush hosted an opening day celebration on April 1 and is back to serving flavorful Italian Ice. 

Established in 2003, Sunset Slush - Classic Italian Ice® began  in Brunswick County, North Carolina before making its way to Fayetteville.  Sunset Slush® is known for its unique flavor and texture and it has been called "designer ice." It is dairy-free, low in calories, cholesterol free and gluten free. 

Featuring over 20 flavors to choose from, guests can come and enjoy this sweet treat from 2 p.m.- 8 p.m. Monday- Friday, from 12 p.m. - 8 p.m. on Saturday and from 12. P.m. - 6 p.m. on Sunday. 

Learn more about Sunset Slush on their Facebook page here and on their website here.