A Blazing Celebration of Liberty in Cape Fear, NC

Firefest 2025, hosted by the Cape Fear Libertarian Party (CFLP), ignited the spirit of Liberty over the weekend of October 4-5 in the scenic coastal region of southeastern North Carolina. Billed as an annual gathering to champion individual freedoms, challenge government overreach, and foster community among like-minded advocates, this year's event drew over attendees from across the state and beyond. Held amid the crisp autumn air of Hampstead and Rocky Point, the fest combined intellectual discourse, feisty discussions, and hands-on activities, all centered on the timeless pillar of free speech. As CFLP Chair Bob Drach aptly put it in his opening remarks, "In an era where voices are silenced by algorithms and edicts, events like this remind us that Liberty isn't granted—it's defended." What followed was a packed itinerary that blended education, camaraderie, and recreation, culminating in a memorable bonfire and a practical training session the next day.

The festivities kicked off on Saturday afternoon at Nineteen Restaurant in Hampstead, a charming venue nestled near the Olde Point Golf Course, providing a relaxed yet focused setting for the day's intellectual core. Starting promptly at 1:00 p.m., the program featured two prominent local speakers, both deeply rooted in North Carolina's libertarian movement, who set the tone with impassioned addresses on the erosion of free speech in modern America. First up was Andy Pettigrew, owner and editor for the Pender-Topsail Post and Voice, who told the harrowing tale of his legal battle against the local government’s assault on his free speech and broader threats to press freedoms. Next up was NHC school board member David Perry, talking about free speech and the challenges we face protecting our first amendment rights against ever-encroaching school boards. LNC representative and Chair of LP Hawaii Austin Martin gave a video conference presentation on plans to grow the party and improve fundraising, which was well received by the audience, who had lots of questions.

The afternoon's highlight was a three-person panel discussion on free speech, moderated by Bob Drach himself. This lively session, running from 3:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m., featured a diverse trio of experts: recent Libertarian convert and U.S. House 2026 candidate Austin Ayers, longtime Liberty warrior and NC House 2026 candidate Maad Abu-Ghazalah, and LPNC Communications Director and current Mayor of Charlotte candidate Rob Yates. The panel delved deep into the First Amendment's challenges in 2025, exploring topics like rapidly increasing government censorship, the impact of recent Supreme Court rulings on online expression, and strategies for countering propaganda and narrative building by the state. Audience questions poured in, ranging from whether any limits on free speech should be enforced to how best to use speech to prevent violence. Drach skillfully steered the conversation, ensuring it remained productive and useful. By the end, panelists agreed on one key takeaway: libertarians must lead the charge in defending free speech, as the major parties have too often compromised it for political gain. The session wrapped with a Q&A that spilled over, underscoring the crowd's engagement.

As the sun dipped lower, the group transitioned to the evening phase at Whiskey Trail in Rocky Point, a sprawling outdoor venue perfect for the fest's signature bonfire. Starting at 6:00 p.m., attendees enjoyed a BBQ dinner with smores for dessert. The bonfire, roaring to life around 7:30 p.m., became the heart of the night, drawing circles of participants into informal discussions that stretched well past midnight. Under the starlit sky, groups debated liberty issues with fervor: from the merits of ending the Federal Reserve to reforming criminal justice, and even philosophical musings on voluntaryism versus minarchism. Stories of personal triumphs over regulatory burdens were shared, like one attendee's tale of navigating zoning laws to start a home-based business. Laughter mingled with serious discourse, fueled by craft beers from Wilmington breweries and non-alcoholic alternatives. The bonfire's warmth symbolized the enduring flame of freedom, as Drach later reflected in a post-event note: "These late-night talks are where real change sparks." For many, the evening extended into tent camping on-site, with a few RVs dotted around, allowing the conversations to linger into the wee hours without the intrusion of urban noise.

The weekend didn't end with the embers of Saturday's fire. On Sunday morning, October 5, the CFLP organized a training day at the local VFW Post 2573 gun range in Wilmington, just a short drive from the previous venues. This hands-on session, starting at 9:00 a.m., attracted about 50 participants eager to exercise their Second Amendment rights in a safe, educational environment. Led by LPMC 2A Issues Coordinator Justin Hinckley, the training pushed the knowledge and physical limits of longtime firearms enthusiasts and also welcomed a first timer.

Overall, Freedom Firefest 2025 was a resounding success for the Cape Fear Libertarian Party, reinforcing its role as a vibrant hub for North Carolina's growing libertarian community. With nearly 50,000 registered Libertarians statewide, events like this highlight the party's appeal to independents disillusioned by the duopoly. Attendance was up from last year, and feedback praised the balance of intellect and fun. While no major controversies arose, the focus on free speech felt particularly timely amid national debates over online regulation and protest rights. As the CFLP looks ahead to 2026 elections, this fest served as a launchpad for candidates and ideas alike. In a world where freedoms are under siege, gatherings like Freedom Firefest remind us that the fight for Liberty burns brightest when shared around a fire—or on a range.