Dreamfest is a weekend of both community and Cary-sponsored events celebrating the legacy of the Reverend Dr. Martin L. King Jr. Over the holiday weekend, there will be a variety of programs that delve into themes of equity, representation and poverty, alongside opportunities for community service.
Below are all of the Dreamfest events happening in Downtown Cary:
Farming While Black: Film Screening and Panel Discussion
Film screening at The Cary Theater with Q&A on Friday, January 17 at 7:30 p.m. Get tickets here.
Encore screening at The Cary Theater (no Q&A) on Saturday, January 18 at 2:00 p.m. Get tickets here.
Join us for a screening of “Farming While Black,” a powerful documentary that explores the historical and ongoing struggles of Black farmers in the United States. The film highlights the experiences of a new generation of Black farmers reclaiming land and reconnecting with their ancestral roots. After the screening, engage in a dynamic panel discussion with Brea Baker, author of “Rooted: The American Legacy of Land Theft and the Modern Movement for Black Land Ownership,” and a member of the Triangle Black Farmer’s Market Collective. Moderated by Janelle Jennings-Alexander, Strategy Director of Complete College America, this discussion will delve into the fight for land justice and the revitalization of Black farming communities. Don’t miss this important conversation on history, resilience, and the future of Black land ownership!
Free event, ticket required.
MLK Children’s Program: “Tellebration”
January 18 at the Page-Walker Arts & History Center
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Celebrate the legacy of Dr. King at the annual “Tellebration” Children’s Program! This vibrant event promises a day full of engaging arts and crafts, along with captivating live storytelling. Join us as we honor Dr. King’s values through creativity and imagination, making it a memorable experience for children and families alike. Don’t miss out on this wonderful celebration!
2025 Dreamfest Cultural Celebration: “Stronger Together: Cultivating a Community of Compassion!”
January 18 at the Cary Arts Center
Activities begin at 5:00 PM
Performance starts at 6:30 PM
Get ready for an unforgettable evening at the 2025 Dreamfest Cultural Celebration: “Stronger Together: Cultivating a Community of Compassion!” This exciting event promises a perfect blend of entertainment and enlightenment, featuring keynote speaker Rev. James A. White, Senior Pastor of Christ Our King Community Church. The fabulous Melissa Wade, Stellar Award Winner and beloved radio personality from 103.9 The Light, will serve as our Mistress of Ceremonies.
Prepare to be inspired by an incredible lineup of talent, including:
Al Strong, Award-winning trumpet player, composer, and recording artist
Cortland Gilliam, CJ Suitt & Fred Joiner, Poet Laureates
Collin Williams, Saxophonist
Pure Life Theater, Actors & Vocalists
The Gifted Arts, Theatrical Dance Ensemble
The Cary-Apex Youth Choir
Food, Fellowship, and Charitable Collection: 5 p.m.
- Corner Boys BBQ will have dinner options available by food truck
- Community Resource Fair: featuring local small businesses & community organizations
- MLK Virtual Reality Experience: The Virtual Reality Experience immerses viewers in the historic White Rock Baptist Church in Durham, NC, in 1960; giving them an opportunity to listen to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s speech in 3D. presented by the NCSU’s vMLK Project Team.
- Kids Art & Craft Zone
- Charitable Collection for “The Carying Place“ sponsored by The Theta Lambda Sigma Alumnae Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Inc. We are seeking new items to support their mission of empowering homeless working families. Donations will be accepted in the Cary Arts Center lobby during the 2025 MLK Dreamfest Celebration event.
- Requested Items: below Kitchen Items Bath & Bedroom Items
- Foil and Plastic Wrap
- Body Wash & Soft Soap
- Kitchen Towels
- Bath and Hand Towels
- Mixing Bowls
- Laundry Baskets
- Paper Towels
- Pillows
- Placemats
- Sheets (all sizes except King)
- Potholders/Mitts
- Shower Curtain Liners
- Serving Utensils
- Wash Cloths
Learn more about all of the MLK Day Dreamfest events, please visit carync.gov/dreamfest.