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.
Cary Streets Close Saturday for Cary Jaycees Christmas Parade
The annual Cary Jaycees Christmas Parade returns to downtown Cary on Saturday, December 13 at 2 p.m. In support of the parade, several downtown streets will be closed from 1-5 p.m., including portions of E. Chatham Street, Academy Street, and Dry Avenue. For the full list of road closures and detour details, read more.
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.
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. Share your input.
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. Sign up here.
Become a Farmer at Good Hope Farm
Our Farmer Training Program is accepting new applicants for the 2026 farming year! Through this initiative, farmers interested in launching their own agribusinesses can sublet affordable plots at Cary’s historic teaching farm. Program participants benefit from shared use of infrastructure such as irrigation, farm equipment, refrigeration, packing and washing station, and more. Interested individuals should have some farming experience and a desire to take their farming operations to the next level. The Farmer Training Program is hosted in collaboration with our nonprofit partners at Piedmont Conservation Council and includes access to a Farmer Handbook and sample business plans. Learn more.
Cary Action Sports End of Season Sale - 50% Off!
Get ready to save big! From December 1 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.
January BUD is online now!
Celebrate the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. at the Dreamfest Celebration, join a river of light as the GLOW parade wanders through Downtown Cary Park, make a plan to compost your holiday greenery, and more! Cary's BUD newsletter is available online now! Find out what's happening this coming January in the latest edition here.
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 12 p.m. to ensure everyone gets their magical moment.
The Cary Theater, 2 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.
Historic Preservation Commission
Cary Town Hall, 6:30 p.m. Information available on the calendar.
Film: Good Fortune (R)
The Cary Theater, 7 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.
Thursday
Film: Kiss of the Spider Woman (R)
The Cary Theater, 2 p.m. 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.
Town Council Work Session
Herb Young Community Center, 5 p.m. Information is available on the calendar.
Town Council Meeting
Cary Town Hall, 6:30 p.m. Information is available on the calendar.
Film: The Cure: The Show of the Lost World (Not Rated)
The Cary Theater, 7 p.m. "The Cure: The Show of a Lost World" is a recut, remixed, and 4K remastered film of their full 31-song show at London’s Troxy. Directed by Grammy-nominated Nick Wickham, with a new surround sound mix by Robert Smith, the film will be released on Thursday, December 11, in cinemas worldwide for a limited time only. Film starts promptly at showtime. Tickets and information.
Friday
Film: You Got Gold: A Celebration of John Prine (Not Rated)
The Cary Theater, 2 p.m. "You Got Gold: A Celebration of John Prine" is a star-studded tribute concert film, captured in October 2022 at Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium, honoring the legendary songwriter’s enduring legacy. Tickets and information.
A holiday tradition returns! Join us for four sing-along screenings of White Christmas at The Cary from December 12 – 14, 2025. Tickets and information.
Saturday
Cary Farmers Market
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.
Santa's Workshop
Downtown Cary Park's Academy Pavilion & Plaza, 10 a.m. 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. Event information.
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. Event information.
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!
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! Event information.
Town of Cary, 316 N. Academy St., Cary, NC 27513, United States, 311 in Cary or (919) 469-4000
