Events

A musical celebration of the holidays featuring Shana Tucker & The Christian Tamburr Trio Meanwhile, beautiful intensity exudes from the “chambersoul” of Shana Tucker, a singer-songwriter whose main instrument is the cello. Her original gumbo of jazz, folk and R&B evokes the spirit of Bill Withers and Esperanza Spalding. — Sylvia Pfeiffenberger Join renowned vocalist, cellist and storyteller Shana Tucker and her musical partner/pianist Christian Tamburr as they return for the 3rd year in a row to celebrate the music of the holidays with jazz styled Christmas classics, charming seasonal originals and plenty of laughs, jingle bells, reindeer games, stories and sing-alongs. Listen on Spotify Watch on Youtube

In this hilarious Christmas classic, a couple struggling to put on a church Christmas pageant is faced with casting the Herdman kids – probably the most inventively awful kids in history. You won't believe the mayhem – and the fun – when the Herdmans collide head-on with the story of Christmas! Adapted from the bestselling Young Adult book. For tickets and information: https://www.caryplayers.org/

Join Mrs. Tiggy-Winkle and all of the animals in Mr. McGregor’s garden patch as they search for Peter Rabbit in this light-hearted Christmas mystery. A co-production between Applause! Cary Youth Theatre and Seed Art Share, this show is a perfect way for the whole family to experience the magic of the holiday season as we step out of the theatre and into Downtown Cary Park for this site-specific production. Notes This event will begin on Frantz Square Lawn. Registration for this sessions opens on 11/21 at 10 a.m. Please sign up for only one showtime to allow as many people as possible the chance to attend. Holding multiple spots limits access for others—thank you for being considerate of our community! Register Here

Join Remedy Cocktail Company and The Refreshery for a cozy, hands-on class where you’ll learn to craft bitters-based, non-alcoholic holiday cocktails—each with an optional spirited twist. Sip seasonal sippers, explore bold flavors, and take home festive recipes to delight every guest and fill every glass. Downtown Cary Park: DCP Gathering House Downtown Cary Park Registration: Registration opens at 10 a.m. 2 weeks before the program start date. Register Now

Join Mrs. Tiggy-Winkle and all of the animals in Mr. McGregor’s garden patch as they search for Peter Rabbit in this light-hearted Christmas mystery. A co-production between Applause! Cary Youth Theatre and Seed Art Share, this show is a perfect way for the whole family to experience the magic of the holiday season as we step out of the theatre and into Downtown Cary Park for this site-specific production. Notes This event will begin on Frantz Square Lawn. Registration for these sessions opens on 11/21 at 10 a.m. Please sign up for only one showtime to allow as many people as possible the chance to attend. Holding multiple spots limits access for others—thank you for being considerate of our community! Register Here

The most magical night of the season awaits! This FREE celebration transforms our entire park into a holiday wonderland. Enjoy festive activities, live performances, and special programs throughout the day, all building to the spectacular Tree Lighting Ceremony at 6 p.m. Watch as thousands of lights illuminate the night and officially launch the holiday season in style! Friendly reminder: Academy Street will be closed from 11 a.m. – 10 p.m. on December 6 for the celebration, so plan to arrive a bit early and explore nearby parking options. We promise the short walk will be worth it! For more: https://downtowncarypark.com/things-to-do/calendar/w_tree-lighting-celebration

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 or their Facebook and Instagram pages for regularly updated weekly information.

Create cherished memories in our enchanting winter wonderland! Capture the sparkle in your little ones' eyes as they meet the jolliest man in red himself. Surrounded by twinkling lights and festive décor, these aren't just photos – they're keepsakes you'll treasure for years to come. Bundle up the family and make this holiday season unforgettable! Please note: Santa's quite popular! There may be a wait upon arrival, and the line may close approximately 30 minutes before 5 p.m. to ensure everyone gets their magical moment. For more: https://downtowncarypark.com/things-to-do/calendar/w_photos-with-santa-4

Where has Peter Rabbit gone? Join Mrs. Tiggy-Winkle and the delightful cast of characters from Mr. McGregor's garden as they unravel this whimsical Christmas mystery. This enchanting collaboration between Applause! Cary Youth Theatre and Seed Art Share brings the beloved tale to life in an unforgettable outdoor performance. Perfect for families seeking holiday magic under the stars! While this performance is free, registration is required. For more: https://downtowncarypark.com/things-to-do/calendar/r_PERF0129_007

Meet the artists of the Fine Arts League of Cary's Annual Members Show. For more information, visit Current Exhibitions.

In this hilarious Christmas classic, a couple struggling to put on a church Christmas pageant is faced with casting the Herdman kids – probably the most inventively awful kids in history. You won't believe the mayhem – and the fun – when the Herdmans collide head-on with the story of Christmas! Adapted from the bestselling Young Adult book. For tickets and information: https://www.caryplayers.org/

Create cherished memories in our enchanting winter wonderland! Capture the sparkle in your little ones' eyes as they meet the jolliest man in red himself. Surrounded by twinkling lights and festive décor, these aren't just photos—they're keepsakes you'll treasure for years to come. Bundle up the family and make this holiday season unforgettable! Please note: Santa's quite popular! There may be a wait upon arrival, and the line may close approximately 30 minutes before noon to ensure everyone gets their magical moment. For more: https://downtowncarypark.com/things-to-do/calendar/w_photos-with-santa-5

Everyone deserves a magical moment with Santa! Our specially designed sensory-friendly session features softened lights, gentle music, and a calm, welcoming atmosphere. With reduced capacity for comfortable spacing and sensory bags available, families of all abilities can relax and enjoy the holiday spirit. Create beautiful memories at your own pace in this inclusive, peaceful setting. Please note: Santa's quite popular! There may be a wait upon arrival, and the line may close approximately 30 minutes before 3 p.m. to ensure everyone gets their magical moment. For more: https://downtowncarypark.com/things-to-do/calendar/w_photos-with-santa-sensory-friendly-2

Concert Singers of Cary presents Holiday Pops: Timeless Tidings and Festive Firsts! 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 familiar and new holiday tunes complete with guest artists, this performance will have something for everyone. Come enjoy Downtown Cary and spend some time with Concert Singers as we embrace the joy of the holiday season! For tickets and information: https://concertsingers.org/

Join Izzy from Garden & Gather for a festive Ornament Terrarium Workshop, where you'll create your own miniature winter wonderland inside a glass ornament. This hands-on holiday experience is perfect for all skill levels and includes all materials, from tiny plants to seasonal decorations. Come sip warm cider, get creative, and leave with a beautiful handmade gift or keepsake! Notes Please note, only registered participants may attend this workshop. Walk-ins will not be permitted. Register Now

"Let's Claus a Scene" - 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/

Join the Cary Town Band for our spectacular annual Winterfest concert, a joyous and uplifting musical celebration of the holiday season! This year’s event will light up the Cary Arts Center with festive music for the holidays, culminating in our cherished Christmas carol sing-along. Delight in unique and enchanting arrangements of classic seasonal tunes and let Winterfest ’25 be the unforgettable highlight that kicks off your holiday festivities! This concert is free to the public; for more information please visit: https://carytownband.org/

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 or their Facebook and Instagram pages for regularly updated weekly information.

Get those creative juices flowing before the big parade! Drop by Santa's Workshop to craft one-of-a-kind ornaments, heartfelt handmade gifts, or a special treasure just for you. This festive crafting experience welcomes all ages and sets the perfect mood before you head out to catch the Cary Jaycees Christmas Parade. For more: https://downtowncarypark.com/things-to-do/calendar/w_santas-workshop

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: •Vintage women’s and mens clothing •Vintage shoes and accessories •Vintage records, CDs and cassettes •Vintage houseware and decor •Vintage tchotchkes, memorabilia and collectibles Plus: •Permanent jewelry •Craft coffee cart (NEW!) •Specialty baked goods •Craft beer, liquor drinks, wine and slushies •Food trucks

Your furry family members deserve their moment with Santa too! Bring your four-legged friends for adorable holiday photos that'll melt your heart. With festive decorations, treats, and plenty of wagging tails, this celebration is pure joy. Complimentary photos with Santa included, or upgrade to a professional session with photographer Tara Lynn (fees apply). Please note: Santa's quite popular with pups too! There may be a wait upon arrival, and the line may close approximately 30 minutes before 5 p.m. to ensure every good boy and girl gets their turn. For more: https://downtowncarypark.com/things-to-do/calendar/w_paws-with-claus-holiday-photos-2

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. This heartwarming work is paired with a performance of John Mackey's  gorgeous composition Sheltering Sky, coupled with an original animation that also conveys a spirit of hope and generosity very appropriate for the holiday season. And that's not all! The program will be sprinkled with an array of holiday favorites sure to delight musicians and audience alike. For tickets and information: https://www.trianglewind.org/

Piece together the perfect afternoon! Bring your completed puzzles to swap with fellow enthusiasts, discover new challenges, and enjoy casual collaborative puzzling in a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere. Whether you're a jigsaw novice or a puzzle pro, you'll find your perfect match here. Connect, trade, and solve together! For more: https://downtowncarypark.com/things-to-do/calendar/w_drop-in-puzzling-and-puzzle-swap-meet-22

BINGO! Get ready for an evening of giggles, excitement, and friendly competition. Little ones will love the thrill of marking their cards and shouting "BINGO!" in this drop-in game designed just for kids. This event is great fun from start to finish! For more: https://downtowncarypark.com/things-to-do/calendar/w_childrens-bingo-12

Celebrate the Festival of Lights with us! Join the community for the 3rd night of Hanukkah as we illuminate the menorah together. Enjoy kids' activities, uplifting holiday music, sweet treats, and the meaningful tradition of lighting the menorah. Throughout Hanukkah (December 14 – 22), the menorah at Cary Arts Center will shine bright each evening. For more: https://downtowncarypark.com/things-to-do/calendar/w_hanukkah-menorah-lighting-2

Meet at Herb Young Community Center and let's CaryVan to The Cary Theater for the Pop Up Chorus! Pop Up Chorus welcomes everyone who wants to sing. No special talent required! Conductors Kayla and Carter, teach two holiday songs (Mariah Carey's All I Want For Christmas &  Wham's Last Christmas) to the audience, forming a chorus. After the dress rehearsal, we end with a final, rousing, filmed performance. Before the show, go behind the scenes and watch the stage setup and sound check, then enjoy dinner and a Q&A with the musical guests. Please be advised this CaryVan is for age 8 & up. Unfortunately, there are no exceptions.

Experience The Nutcracker Suite—a one-hour narrated matinee designed as a perfect introduction for kids of all ages. The program begins with a bare stage and a mini class, then invites the audience to watch the magic unfold as lights, music, props, and dancers transform the stage. See firsthand how this beloved ballet comes to life, from studio to stage! For Tickets:  https://www.caryballetcompany.org/nutcracker

An excellent introduction for kids of all ages. This narrated one-hour show begins with a bare stage, allowing the audience to watch how the stage is set with lights, music, props, and dancers — how dancers go from the studio to the theater. A one hour show with these modifications: House lights dimmed, softer music and a quiet room is available in the lobby if needed. For Tickets:  https://www.caryballetcompany.org/nutcracker

Create cherished memories in our enchanting winter wonderland! Capture the sparkle in your little ones' eyes as they meet the jolliest man in red himself. Surrounded by twinkling lights and festive décor, these aren't just photos – they're keepsakes you'll treasure for years to come. Bundle up the family and make this holiday season unforgettable! Please note: Santa's quite popular! There may be a wait upon arrival, and the line may close approximately 30 minutes before 9 p.m. to ensure everyone gets their magical moment. For more: https://downtowncarypark.com/things-to-do/calendar/w_photos-with-santa-4

Discover a vibrant showcase of locally-crafted treasures while immersing yourself in 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!

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 or their Facebook and Instagram pages for regularly updated weekly information.

Experience The Nutcracker Suite—a one-hour narrated matinee designed as a perfect introduction for kids of all ages. The program begins with a bare stage and a mini class, then invites the audience to watch the magic unfold as lights, music, props, and dancers transform the stage. See firsthand how this beloved ballet comes to life, from studio to stage! For Tickets:  https://www.caryballetcompany.org/nutcracker

Cary Ballet Company presents The Nutcracker, the beloved holiday classic set to Tchaikovsky’s iconic score. Follow young Clara and her valiant Nutcracker Prince from a festive family party into a magical dreamworld, where they battle the mischievous Mouse Queen. Journey with them through sparkling Snow to Cary’s enchanting Land of Sweets, where the Sugarplum Fairy and her dazzling international friends await. A hometown holiday tradition—magical, memorable, and not to be missed! For Tickets:  https://www.caryballetcompany.org/nutcracker

Cary Ballet Company presents The Nutcracker, the beloved holiday classic set to Tchaikovsky’s iconic score. Follow young Clara and her valiant Nutcracker Prince from a festive family party into a magical dreamworld, where they battle the mischievous Mouse Queen. Journey with them through sparkling Snow to Cary’s enchanting Land of Sweets, where the Sugarplum Fairy and her dazzling international friends await. A hometown holiday tradition—magical, memorable, and not to be missed! For Tickets: https://www.caryballetcompany.org/nutcracker

Calling all creative teens! Design your own mini-magazine holiday letter with help from a local artist and poet. No experience needed – just bring your imagination and holiday spirit! Enjoy free cookies, warm cider, live music, and selfies in Santa's chair while you craft something uniquely you. Friends welcome! Downtown Cary Park strives to provide a positive experience for all guests. Our goal is to accommodate you and meet your individual needs. Please fill out the event accessibility form here and a staff member will be in contact with you. For more: https://downtowncarypark.com/things-to-do/calendar/w_holiday-teen-zine-party

Cary Ballet Company presents The Nutcracker, the beloved holiday classic set to Tchaikovsky’s iconic score. Follow young Clara and her valiant Nutcracker Prince from a festive family party into a magical dreamworld, where they battle the mischievous Mouse Queen. Journey with them through sparkling Snow to Cary’s enchanting Land of Sweets, where the Sugarplum Fairy and her dazzling international friends await. A hometown holiday tradition—magical, memorable, and not to be missed! For Tickets: https://www.caryballetcompany.org/nutcracker

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. Motown & Soul 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. Tickets on sale through The Cary Box Office (122 E. Chatham Street) and online through Etix ONLY.

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. Motown & Soul 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. Tickets on sale through The Cary Box Office (122 E. Chatham Street) and online through Etix ONLY.

This year’s Kwanzaa program, curated by Darrell Stover, will feature the best the Triangle has to offer in traditional Kwanzaa performers and presenters that embrace African culture through dance, drumming, storytelling, and the visual arts. It will highlight how scholarship and performance intertwine cultural traditions. For more information visit: Kwanzaa

The New York based Progressive Americana group Nefesh Mountain Band has been hailed as one of the formative boundary-pushing ensembles in roots music. The band's creators, Eric Lindberg and Doni Zasloff have created a sound all their own; blurring the lines between Americana, Bluegrass, Folk, Jazz and Blues infused with Jewish tradition. For them the music is wholly American, freely expressing their own identities while at the same time addressing many prominent issues that still trouble America and the World today. Tickets and Information