We're updating the Imagine Cary Community Plan to reflect our community’s values and priorities, and we’d like your feedback! This update focuses on two important chapters: ENGAGE — incorporating the new Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Resources System Plan — and MOVE — integrating the new Bike Plan and Vision Zero resolution. Your input helped us share the original plan, and your continued feedback ensures it reflects how Cary grows. Visit carync.gov/engageandmove to learn more and share your thoughts.
Community Garden Lottery Now Open
Would you like to grow food for your family and learn more about gardening? The Carpenter and McCrimmon Community Garden plots are rented for an eleven-month term for the price of $50 for a Standard or ADA plot. McCrimmon Community Garden has smaller perimeter beds available for the eleven-month period at a cost of $25. Beds have convenient access to watering hoses, our garden shed is stocked with tools, and we provide renters with educational materials to support their success.
New This Holiday Season: GoCary's Downtown Loop "Light-Seeing" Service
GoCary's Downtown Loop is rolling out Tuesday night light-seeing rides from December 2 to 23, from 6 to 8 p.m., with festive music, cozy giveaways, and views of downtown’s holiday glow. Free parking is available at Town Hall, and the Loop operates its regular Thursday to Sunday schedule throughout the season. Learn more.
Cary Action Sports End of Season Sale - 50% Off!
Get ready to save big! From December 1, starting at 1:01 a.m., through December 31, enjoy 50% off all Cyber Monday merchandise at Cary Action Sports. Shop online at RecTrac using code Cyber Monday, or visit us in person at 2040 NW Maynard Rd. Passholders save an additional 10%. Online orders are ready for pickup the next business day. Store hours: Tuesday to Friday, 5 to 9 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday, 1 to 9 p.m.
Senior Accreditation Survey
The Senior Center assessment form is available now through December 31, and your voice matters! As a proud state and nationally accredited Senior Center and an AARP Age-Friendly Community, Cary is committed to understanding and meeting the needs of older adults.
Virtual, noon Solar energy is an important part of reducing carbon emissions and building a sustainable and resilient community. Join us to discover if solar is the right choice for you and enjoy Q&A with local experts.
Inspired by the acclaimed Tony Award-winning Broadway musical. Valentín, a political prisoner, shares his cell with Molina, a window dresser. Despite their contrasting backgrounds, the two develop an unexpected friendship as Molina entertains Valentín with tales of a Hollywood musical featuring his beloved actress, Ingrid Luna. Tickets and information.
Film: The Nutcracker at Wethersfield (Not Rated)
The Cary Theater, 7 p.m.
The Nutcracker at Wethersfield follows choreographer Troy Schumacher in the dark winter of 2020 as he dreams of an idea to save Christmas and put his fellow New York City Ballet dancers back to work. Set on the grounds of a magical Hudson Valley estate, Troy and his team of fellow artists face almost insurmountable challenges to create an unforgettable and immersive live experience between dancers and audience, who arrive as guests at the ballet’s most famous party scene to witness the Nutcracker like never before. Tickets and information.
Cary Town Hall Lobby, 5 p.m. Citizens are invited to a swearing-in reception in the Cary Town Hall Lobby on Thursday, December 4, at 5 p.m. Following the reception, Carissa Kohn-Johnson, Bella Huang, and Brittany Richards will be officially sworn in during the Council Organizational Meeting at 6:30 p.m.
The Cary Theater, 7:30 p.m. 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. Tickets and information.
Community Theater: Cary Players presents The Best Christmas Pageant Ever
Cary Arts Center, 7:30 p.m. 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. Tickets and information.
Friday
A Peter Rabbit Christmas
Downtown Cary Park, 5 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.
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. Tickets and information.
Downtown Cary Park, 9 a.m. Join the Cary Farmers Market at its location on Park Street next to Downtown Cary Park! Each Saturday, you will find a wonderful lineup of vendors offering all locally-made and locally-grown items. Shop for freshly-harvested produce, handmade local food, 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 their new location, nutrition programs, and other information on the market's website or visit their Facebook and Instagram pages for weekly information.
Photos with Santa
Gathering House, 10 a.m.
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.
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!
Enjoy a traditional Christmas atmosphere at the historic hotel decorated for the holiday season! There will be tasty treats, carolers, a craft activity for kids, and maybe even a special guest from the North Pole. Event information.
The Grinch is a cynical grump who goes on a mission to steal Christmas, only to have his heart changed by a young girl’s generous spirit. Tickets and information.
Film: Good Fortune (R)
The Cary Theater, 8 p.m.
In "Good Fortune", a well-meaning but rather inept angel named Gabriel meddles in the lives of a struggling gig worker and a wealthy venture capitalist. Tickets and information.
Gingerbread House Competition and Stroll
Downtown Cary, December 6 - 14 Kick off the season with a sweet stroll through Downtown Cary! Enjoy the delightful display of handcrafted gingerbread houses created by local participants. From whimsical designs to sweet masterpieces, these creations are sure to spark holiday cheer! Entries are currently on display in select Downtown businesses from December 6 - 14. Cast your vote and help choose this year’s favorite! Winning entries will be on display at the Cary Arts Center December 16 - 29. Learn more.
Gifting Tree Project
Downtown Cary, December 6 - 26 Experience the magic as Academy Street and Downtown Cary Park are transformed into a dazzling display of decorated Christmas trees! Local families, schools, and organizations put their creativity on display in this friendly competition for a chance to win a donation to the nonprofit of their choice. Voting will be open December 6 - 21. Learn more.
George Bailey has so many problems he is thinking about ending it all – and it’s Christmas! As the angels discuss George, we see his life in flashback. As George is about to jump from a bridge, he ends up rescuing his guardian angel, Clarence, who then shows George what his town would have looked like if it hadn’t been for all his good deeds over the years. Tickets and information.
Community Theater: Cary Players presents The Best Christmas Pageant Ever
