December in Downtown Cary is absolutely PACKED with exciting holiday events. Take a look below at what’s going on this month!
Meet the Artists: Fine Arts League of Cary and Ralph Souder
December 1, 2:00 pm at the Page-Walker Arts & History Center
Join the members of the Fine Arts League of Cary for their annual Member Show at the Page-Walker. Awards will be presented towards the end of the event. Also meet wood artist Ralph Souder. For more information visit Gallery Exhibitions.
Skating Rink: Toddler Time
December 3, 10, 17 and 31, 10:00 am at Downtown Cary Park
Experience the magic of the holidays at Downtown Cary Park’s winter skating rink! Head to Park Street Courts to find the arena transformed into a frosty weather destination, exclusively reserved for our tiniest, most enthusiastic skaters! Skating and skate rentals are absolutely free!
Toddlers aged 6 and under, this special day is just for YOU! Imagine a winter wonderland where the rink is all yours to explore and enjoy. It’s a magical opportunity for our youngest Park visitors.
Please note that the skating rink does not take RSVPs. Check-in is in person at Park Street Courts and operates on a first-come, first-served basis until the rink reaches capacity for each skating window. Be prepared to wait in line, when necessary. Let’s make some winter memories together!
Know Before You Go
- The skating rink is free and open to the public. The rink does not take RSVPs, is not rentable, and operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
- The skating rink is reserved for kids 6 and under during this time frame. Children 5 or under must be accompanied on the rink by an adult/guardian.
- Skate sizes range from a toddler’s size 8/9 up to Adult size 14. Feel free to bring your own ice skates if you’d like!
- Everyone on the skating rink, including those assisting others, must wear skates.
Skating Rink: Sensory Friendly
December 3, 10, 17 and 31, 4:00 pm at Downtown Cary Park
Experience the magic of the holidays at Downtown Cary Park’s winter skating rink during this sensory-friendly skating session! Head to Park Street Courts to find the arena transformed into a frosty weather destination. Skating and skate rentals are absolutely free!
At Downtown Cary Park, we believe in creating moments that cater to all, ensuring everyone can revel in the joy of gliding on the rink without any sensory overload. At this special time, the rink will provide a serene environment for individuals and families who benefit from a sensory-friendly setting.
Imagine being surrounded by a gentle ambiance, where lights are softened, music is tuned to a soothing level, and the atmosphere is calm and welcoming. Capacity on the rink will be lowered to allow more space between visitors and sensory bags will be available upon request. It’s an opportunity to skate, laugh, and make memories in an environment designed to accommodate diverse sensory needs.
Please note that the skating rink does not take RSVPs. Check-in is in person at Park Street Courts and operates on a first-come, first-served basis until the rink reaches capacity for each skating window. Be prepared to wait in line, when necessary. Let’s make some winter memories together!
Know Before You Go
- The skating rink is free and open to the public, but adjustments will be made during this time frame in order to be more sensory-friendly.
- The rink does not take RSVPs, is not rentable, and operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Children 5 or under must be accompanied on the rink by an adult/guardian.
- Skate sizes range from a toddler’s size 8/9 up to Adult size 14. Feel free to bring your own ice skates if you’d like!
- Everyone on the skating rink, including those assisting others, must wear skates.
Cary Players Presents: A Sherlock Carol
December 5, 6, 8 and 9 at 7:30 pm and December 8 at 3:00 pm at the Cary Arts Center
Moriarty is dead, to begin with. And Sherlock Holmes is a haunted man. But, when a grown-up Tiny Tim asks Holmes to investigate the death of Ebenezer Scrooge, the Great Detective must use his gifts to solve a Dickens of a Christmas mystery! Six actors take on the beloved characters of Arthur Conan Doyle and Charles Dickens in this heartwarming and highly theatrical holiday treat for all ages!
For tickets: https://www.caryplayers.org/a-sherlock-carol
My Favorite Things “Shana Tucker Sings in the Holidays”
December 6, 6:00 pm at The Cary Theater
Featuring: Shana Tucker & the Christian Tamburr Trio
Join renowned vocalist and cellist Shana Tucker as she brings her unique genre of “ChamberSoul” to some of your favorite holiday standards. Shana is joined by award winning jazz pianist and arranger Christian Tamburr and his trio. With headline performances at The Apollo Theater to Lincoln Center, the artistry and musical collaboration shared upon the stage amongst these artists is one not to miss.
SHANA TUCKER | Vocals, Cello
Cellist. Singer-Songwriter. Arts Advocate. Teaching Artist. Collaborator. Cultural Conduit. In each role, Shana Tucker is a builder-of-connections, whether she’s associating STEM concepts with backbeats or engaging a packed house through candid song-storytelling in performance. Shana’s unique genre of ChamberSoul weaves jazz, roots, folk, acoustic pop, and a touch of R&B into melodies that echo in your head for days.
A front-line advocate for arts education, Shana is an accomplished teaching artist, with over 20 years’ experience with community engagement, workshops, lesson planning and artist residency facilitation. She appeared as “Ms. Shana” on PBSNC – Rootle TV’s Block Party LIVE @ Home! for a full 2022-23 season. Shana currently serves as Executive Director for Kidznotes, a music-for-social-change community youth orchestra organization in Durham, NC.
Christian Tamburr:
Christian Tamburr is producer and curator of the Legacy of Jazz Series. He has toured the world to over 76 countries performing as musical director with Julio Iglesias, Cirque du Soleil and Jazz at Lincoln Center.
14th Annual Gingerbread House Competition
December 7 – 15, all day in Downtown Cary
Step into the holiday magic in Downtown Cary as it transforms into a whimsical walking gallery of gingerbread creations! Local creators have poured their hearts into crafting festive displays so sweet, they might just tempt a visit from Santa’s elves! Stroll through select downtown businesses from December 7-15 (hours vary by location) and vote for your favorites. The best of the best will be showcased at the Cary Arts Center from December 17-30—perfect for adding a dash of holiday cheer to your festivities.
More information about visiting, participating, and hosting can be found at carync.gov/gingerbread.
13th Annual Gifting Tree Project
December 7 – 22, all day on South Academy Street
Stroll along S. Academy Street and inside the Downtown Cary Park as it is transformed into a dazzling Christmas tree display. Local families, schools, and organizations decorate their trees in a competition to win a donation to the nonprofit group of their choice. This year, we will again have prizes for the top three trees.
Voting for the 13th annual Gifting Tree Project will be open December 7 – 22, 2024.
Learn more here.
Tree Lighting Celebration
December 7, 9:00 am at Downtown Cary Park
Kick off the holiday season with festive cheer at our FREE Tree Lighting Celebration in Downtown Cary Park. Throughout the day enjoy holiday activities, programs, and performances all leading up to the official Tree Lighting Ceremony at 6 p.m. Don’t miss this magical evening that promises to ignite your holiday spirit!
The Tree Lighting Ceremony will begin at 6 p.m. For more: https://downtowncarypark.com/things-to-do/calendar/w_tree-lighting-ceremony
Photos with Santa
December 7, 10, 10:00 am and December 20 at 5:00 pm at Downtown Cary Park
Step into a winter wonderland and create unforgettable memories with Photos with Santa. Our Park is transformed into a festive paradise, perfect for snapping those cherished holiday photos with the jolliest man in red. Bring your family, strike a pose with Santa Claus, and soak in the joy of the season amidst twinkling lights and holiday decorations. Don’t miss this enchanting opportunity—it’s more than just a photo op, it’s a magical moment you’ll treasure forever!
Please note, due to Santa’s popularity, there may be a wait to meet him upon your arrival. Additionally, to ensure everyone gets their chance, the line to meet Santa may close approximately 30 minutes before 5 p.m., depending on the crowd. We appreciate your understanding as we strive to make this experience magical for all!
Know Before You Go
- This is NOT a drop off event. Parents and guardians must stay with their child the entire time.
- This event is free and open to the public.
- This event is suitable for all ages.
Cary Farmers Market
December 7, 14 and 21, 9:00 am at East Park Street
Join the Cary Farmers Market for the winter market season along East Park St., next to Downtown Cary Park.
Find a wonderful lineup of vendors offering all locally made and locally grown items. Shop for freshly-harvested produce, humanely-raised meat, and artisan-made goods. Stop by the info booth to learn about their matching program for SNAP/EBT.
Children can also get their very own Farmers Market Passport and participate in the Eat-A-Rainbow program, which encourages children to eat healthy, nutritious foods. Learn more about the new location, nutrition programs, and other information on their website.
The Cary Vintage Market
December 7, 12:00 pm at the West End Biergarten
The Cary Vintage Market is a monthly vintage market held at the biergarten space between Vicious Fishes Brewery (Cary) and South Line Brewing. Located on the edge of downtown , this market is the only vintage market in Cary, NC. Here, you can expect to find a highly curated and diverse collection of:
– Women’s and Men’s Vintage Clothing
– Vintage shoes and accessories
– Vintage records and cassettes
– Vintage houseware and trinkets
– Permanent jewelry
– Craft coffee cart
– Specialty baked goods
– Craft beer, liquor drinks, wine and slushies (nonalcoholic and alcoholic options available)
– Food truck
…and more!!
BONUS: this event is both family-friendly and dog-friendly!
Victorian Christmas at the Page Walker
December 7, 2:00 pm at Page-Walker Arts & History Center
Enjoy an old-fashioned Christmas atmosphere at the old hotel this winter! There will be cookies, carolers, an activity for kids, and maybe even a special guest from the North Pole. Afterward, walk or hop on the Downtown Loop to Downtown Cary Park for the Christmas Tree Lighting event.
Photos with Santa: Sensory-Friendly
December 10, 1:00 pm at Downtown Cary Park
Step into a calming winter wonderland tailored for everyone to enjoy at our Sensory-Friendly Photos with Santa. Lights are softened, music is tuned to a soothing level, and the atmosphere is calm and welcoming, ensuring a comfortable experience for all. Capacity inside will be lowered to provide more space between guests, ensuring a pleasant experience for all attendees, and sensory bags will be available to enhance the visit. Bring your family, strike a pose with Santa Claus, and immerse yourselves in the joyful spirit of the season amidst a serene setting.
Please note, due to Santa’s popularity, there may be a wait to meet him upon your arrival. Additionally, to ensure everyone gets their chance, the line to meet Santa may close approximately 30 minutes before 3 p.m., depending on the crowd. We appreciate your understanding as we strive to make this experience magical for all!
Know Before You Go
- This event is open to guests of all ages who require sensory accommodations.
- This is NOT a drop off event. Parents and guardians must stay with their child the entire time.
- This event is free and open to the public.
RTOOT – The Really Terrible Orchestra of the Triangle presents: ‘Tis The Season Holiday Concert
December 11, 7:30 pm at the Cary Arts Center
‘Tis the Season – The Really Terrible Orchestra of the Triangle (RTOOT) invites you to join us for a delightful evening of music and unexpected humor.
For tickets: https://rtoot.org/concert-tickets/
White Christmas Sing Along
December 12 at 7:30 pm, December 13 at 8:00 pm, December 14 at 7:00 pm and December 15 at 5:00 pm at The Cary Theater
A holiday tradition returns! Join us for 5 sing a long screenings of White Christmas at The Cary from December 12 – 15, 2024.
Gather your family and friends for this beloved 1954 film with lyrics embedded on screen. You’ll enjoy singing along with such songs as “The Best Things Happen When You’re Dancing,” “Snow,” “Sisters” and, of course, the iconic “White Christmas.”
SYNOPSIS:
Having left the Army following W.W.II, Bob Wallace and Phil Davis team up to become a top song-and-dance act. Davis plays matchmaker and introduces Wallace to a pair of beautiful sisters (Betty and Judy) who also have a song-and-dance act. When Betty and Judy travel to a Vermont lodge to perform a Christmas show, Wallace and Davis follow, only to find their former commander, General Waverly, as the lodge owner. A series of romantic mix-ups ensue as the performers try to help the General.
DIRECTOR:
Michael Curtiz
CAST:
Bing Crosby, Danny Kaye, Rosemary Clooney, Vera-Ellen
Concert Singers of Cary presents Holiday Pops 2024
December 13, 8:00 pm at the Cary Arts Center
‘Tis the season…for Holiday Pops with the Concert Singers of Cary! This beloved annual tradition at the bedecked Cary Arts Center is sure to get you in the holiday spirit. A family-friendly fun program of popular holiday tunes with a band, and guest soloist, this performance will have something for everyone. Come enjoy downtown Cary and spend some time with Concert Singers and some of your favorite holiday tunes.
For tickets and information: https://concertsingers.org/our-season-24-25/holiday-pops-2024/
2024 Jaycees Cary Christmas Parade
December 14, 2:00 pm at E. Chatham to S. Academy Street
Bring your talents and holiday cheer to the 43rd annual Cary Jaycees Christmas Parade in downtown Cary. The parade is a joyful celebration which includes bands, mascots, local businesses, community groups, and churches.
For more info visit: https://www.caryjaycees.org/parade
Parade to Park Festivities
December 14, 2:00 pm at Downtown Cary Park
Join us for a jolly good time at Downtown Cary Park following the 2024 Cary Jaycees Christmas Parade! Get ready to keep the celebrations rolling at our ‘Parade to Park Festivities’ starting right after the parade’s conclusion at 4 p.m. As the sun sets, Downtown Cary Park will transform into a festive hub of merriment and delight!
For more: https://downtowncarypark.com/things-to-do/calendar/w_parade-to-park-festivities
Paws with Claus: Holiday Photos
December 15, 2:00 pm at Downtown Cary Park
Bring your furry friends for a jolly good time at our Paws with Claus event! Celebrate the holiday season by snapping adorable photos of your beloved dogs with Santa Claus. Our festive setup is perfect for capturing the cutest holiday moments with your four-legged family members. Enjoy a cheerful atmosphere, complete with holiday decorations, treats, and plenty of wagging tails!
Please note, due to Santa’s popularity, there may be a wait to meet him upon your arrival. Additionally, to ensure everyone gets their chance, the line to meet Santa may close approximately 30 minutes before 5 p.m., depending on the crowd. We appreciate your understanding as we strive to make this experience magical for all!
Know Before You Go
- This event is free and open to the public.
- This event is suitable for all ages, but is intended for dogs and owners.
Triangle Wind Ensemble presents The Snowman and other Holiday Favorites
December 15, 4:00 pm at the Cary Arts Center
Get ready for an extraordinary musical journey that will captivate audiences of all ages and fill your heart with the joy of the season. The concert’s centerpiece will be a live performance of the soundtrack to the beloved British animated classic The Snowman, projected on the big screen while the Triangle Wind Ensemble provides the musical accompaniment. And that’s not all! The program will be sprinkled with an array of holiday favorites sure to delight musicians and audience alike.
For information and tickets: https://www.trianglewind.org/the-snowman-dec-15-2024.html
Holiday Cheer with Newberry and Verch
December 19, 7:00 pm at The Cary Theater
Music of the Season from Canada to the Ozarks
Growing up, musicians Joe Newberry and April Verch absorbed traditions of home and hearth – in his Missouri Ozarks and her Ottawa Valley of Canada.
The holidays have always been a special time of year for both, with the lure of family and friends, festive decorations, gifts under the tree, and always music.
So now, each year the duo sets out in a modern day sleigh (with four-wheel drive) to perform their eagerly anticipated holiday tour. Original songs join timeless hymns. Stories warm the heart and give a twinkle to the eye. Lively fiddle and banjo numbers combine with traditional dance steps to illustrate happy times when people made their own fun at the holidays, and all year long.
Make your holiday concert list, and check it twice. Newberry and Verch are coming to town!
Cary Ballet Presents “The Nutcracker Suite”
December 20 and 21, 11:00 am at the Cary Arts Center
During this one-hour spectacular, enjoy a delightful, condensed, narrated version of the holiday classic “The Nutcracker,” in addition to a mini-ballet demonstration staged by Cary Ballet Company’s Artistic Director, Mariaelena Ruiz. Afterward, join us for a special Nutcracker Tea. Decorate a teacup, take photos with featured ballerinas and leave with some goodies. For more, visit https://www.caryballetcompany.org/nutcracker
Tickets for the performance are $25.
Tickets for the Nutcracker Tea are $15 and sold separately.
Cary Ballet Presents “The Nutcracker”
December 20 at 7:00 pm, December 21 at 2:00 pm and 7:00 pm, and December 22 at 1:30 pm and 5:30 pm at the Cary Arts Center
The traditional full length Nutcracker ballet performs at the Cary Arts Center.
The Nutcracker is a holiday classic, featuring the magical tale of Clara as she journeys from her home to the Land of Sweets with her Nutcracker Prince. The Nutcracker truly is the event of the holiday season, and we hope you join us!
For more, visit https://www.caryballetcompany.org/nutcracker
Cary Night Market
December 20, 5:00 pm at Downtown Cary Park
Discover a lively showcase of locally crafted treasures while enjoying an evening of music and entertainment at the Cary Night Market, organized by The Night Market Co. Join Triangle area artisans for a monthly gathering where an eclectic array of goods meets delectable food and drinks!
The Motown Sound of Christmas
December 27 and 28 at 7:30 pm and December 28 at 2:00 pm at The Cary Arts Center
The Town of Cary and Pure Life Theatre Company join together again to produce this joyful Motown show that features some of the Triangle’s finest singers and dancers. The Motown Sound of Christmas is back with fresh new music selections and surprises celebrating the holidays and Motown! Enjoy a unique holiday experience full of soul and joy, wrapped with a message of love and hope.
Friday, December 27 @ 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, December 28 @ 2:00 p.m.
Saturday, December 28 @ 7:30 p.m.
Cary Kwanzaa Celebration
December 29, 1:00 pm at The Cary Arts Center
Learn more about and celebrate the seven principals of Kwanzaa through demonstrations, performance, and art activities. There will be food trucks and vendors as well. Join our vibrant community for this engaging event for all ages.
Hanukkah Menorah Lighting
December 30, 5:30 pm at Downtown Cary Park
Downtown Cary Park will Illuminate the night as we come together for the Menorah Lighting on the 6th night of Hanukkah. Enjoy an activity for kids, holiday music, a sweet treat and the lighting of the menorah.
Throughout the eight days of Hanukkah (December 25-January 2), the menorah at Cary Arts Center will be lit each evening.
Know about an event that we missed? Reach out to us and we will add it to our calendar!