Midsummer Flower Crowns

Celebrate Independence Day with the Town of Cary through a weekend of vibrant community festivities held from July 3 to July 4, 2026. This extensive celebration offers something for everyone, starting with an energetic festival at Downtown Cary Park featuring arts and crafts, fun games, and a special screening of the classic film Independence Day. Music lovers can enjoy a patriotic performance by the Cary Town Band at the Cary Arts Center, followed by a spectacular concert from the North Carolina Symphony at the Koka Booth Amphitheatre. Families are encouraged to participate in the annual Independence Day Fishing Tournament at Bond Park, where participants of all ages compete for exciting prizes. The festivities culminate in a grand fireworks display that promises to illuminate the night sky, creating a memorable experience for residents and visitors alike. With free general admission to these events, the Town of Cary invites you to enjoy live entertainment, delicious offerings from local food trucks, and a festive atmosphere. Visit our website today to view the full schedule of events and plan your holiday weekend with us.

Live at The Bark Bar is a recurring live music series hosted at a local neighborhood hangout. This event brings local musicians to a casual space for community members to enjoy professional performances in a relaxed environment. This edition features Thomas Neuhasuer, a versatile musician known for his eclectic range. Thomas performs a mix of classic rock, pop, 90s hits, bluegrass, and Irish drinking songs. He enhances his performance by utilizing a loop pedal to layer guitar tracks and vocal harmonies, creating a full sound throughout his set. This event is designed for music lovers, friends, and dog owners looking for a laid-back outing. The venue provides a dog-friendly atmosphere where guests can grab a drink and unwind. Whether you are seeking a weekend activity or a place to relax, this performance offers a great way to enjoy local music. Join us at the bar to experience these tunes firsthand and support live talent in our community. We look forward to welcoming you to an evening of quality music, great drinks, and a comfortable setting.

Speed Puzzling in the Park is an individual tournament where participants compete to complete a 500 piece puzzle against the clock. This challenge tests your speed and accuracy in a race to see who can finish their puzzle first within a two hour limit. Every participant receives the same 500 piece puzzle provided by DCP. You will have two hours to assemble your set. If no one finishes within the time limit, the person with the most connected pieces will be declared the winner. This structure ensures a fair competition for all attendees. The event environment is designed to keep the focus on the task at hand while providing all necessary materials for your attempt. This event is ideal for puzzle enthusiasts and anyone who enjoys friendly competitive games. The atmosphere is centered on focus and achievement. If you are ready to test your skills and enjoy a community challenge, please sign up to secure your spot. We look forward to seeing how quickly you can complete your puzzle in this exciting park competition.

Kiki's Comedy Showcase is an outdoor stand-up event hosted at the Academy Pavilion in Downtown Cary Park. This performance series brings high-energy humor to the community during the summer season. The evening features a curated lineup of three professional comedians performing back-to-back sets. Attendees can expect a mix of sharp wit and observational humor in an open-air park setting. Market 317 will be present at the venue to sell a variety of snacks, beer, and wine throughout the duration of the show. Guests are encouraged to grab a refreshment and find a comfortable seat to enjoy the rotating talent. This event is intended for a mature audience. Performances often include adult themes and language, so listener discretion is advised. If you are looking for a unique evening of entertainment, this showcase offers a professional comedy experience in a central, accessible location. We invite you to join us for a night of laughter under the stars. Please arrive early to secure your preferred seating area and purchase your refreshments before the show begins.

The Independence Day Fishing Tournament is an annual community fishing competition hosted at Bond Park. This event invites participants to celebrate the holiday through friendly outdoor competition on the water. Attendees will participate in a structured tournament featuring prize categories for the longest and shortest fish caught within specific age groups. Staff will manage the weigh-in process to ensure accurate tracking throughout the morning. The event offers a great opportunity to enjoy nature while testing angling skills against neighbors and local fishing enthusiasts. This tournament is open to anglers of all ages and skill levels. We welcome families, experienced fishermen, and newcomers looking for a fun holiday activity in a relaxed park setting. Participants should arrive early to complete the check-in process. Registration begins promptly at 7 a.m. followed by the official start of the tournament at 8 a.m. We look forward to seeing you at the lake for this tradition. Prepare your gear, bring your competitive spirit, and join us for a morning of sport and community engagement at Bond Park. Please register upon arrival to secure your entry and participate in the prize categories.

Are you passionate about community art and curious about how massive theatrical productions come to life? Join the acclaimed Paperhand Puppet Intervention for their Community Work Days held every Saturday from May 16 through July 18, 2026. This is a unique opportunity to go behind the scenes at their Saxapahaw studio and learn the intricate techniques required to build giant puppets for their upcoming summer production, The Wild Wisdom of the World. Participants of all skill levels are welcome to drop in anytime between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. to contribute to this creative process. Whether you are seeking volunteer hours for school or simply want to learn new artistic skills while engaging with a vibrant local troupe, your help is incredibly valuable. Please be prepared to work in a studio setting with specialized tools as you assist in crafting the spectacle. We invite you to be part of the magic and help shape this year's premiere. Come join the team, gain hands-on experience, and help bring this visionary performance to the stage this summer.

We Gather Anyway is a community cookout held at B-Omi Farms in Wendell, North Carolina, celebrating connection across the African diaspora. This event brings people together on the land to honor cultural traditions through shared meals, music, and storytelling in an outdoor setting. Attendees will enjoy open-fire cooking prepared by Chef Ade Carrena, a Food Network Chopped Champion and North Carolina Chef of the Year. The experience features authentic dishes inspired by diasporic identity, live music throughout the fields, and a relaxed environment. Guests can engage in dancing or simply enjoy the atmosphere of a 28-acre Afro-Caribbean wellness farm. This gathering is perfect for those seeking to slow down, connect with the land, and build community in a gentle, welcoming space. Whether you are interested in culinary arts or cultural heritage, this event offers a meaningful way to spend time with friends and family. Please bring your own beverages and prepare to settle in for an afternoon of food and reflection. Join us to experience the beauty of gathering together in this unique natural setting.

America's Cookout is a community celebration hosted by the City of Raleigh to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the United States. This event serves as a gathering place for residents to honor our shared history while fostering local connections and civic engagement within the city. Attendees can participate in a variety of family-friendly games and interactive activities throughout the day. Local food vendors will be on-site providing meals for purchase. The event features designated information hubs where representatives from various City of Raleigh departments will share details about current public programs, community services, and upcoming municipal initiatives. This is an efficient way to learn about city resources directly from the staff who manage them. This event is designed for all Raleigh residents who want to enjoy a lively atmosphere with their neighbors. It is an ideal opportunity to spend time outdoors, meet local leaders, and build a stronger sense of community. We encourage families and individuals to attend this public celebration. Please join us in Raleigh to participate in this meaningful community event and help us mark this significant national milestone together.

This seminar provides a comprehensive guide to free and low-cost summer resources available across Raleigh. Its purpose is to connect residents with essential programs that promote healthy, active, and safe living during the summer months. Attendees will receive information on a variety of local services, including RPO Hoops Nights, community center activities, and library programs. The session covers essential resources such as aquatics, park festivals, and food access programs. Participants will also learn how to access mental health support and identify how to report unsafe conditions in public spaces. This practical overview ensures you know where to find safe places for children, families, and older adults to gather. This event is designed for all Raleigh residents looking to maximize summer opportunities for their families. Whether you need information on recreational activities or community support services, this session offers clear and actionable details. We invite you to join us to learn how to stay connected and informed this season. Register today to gain the knowledge needed to make the most of your summer resources.

Medicare 101 is an informative session designed to simplify the complexities of the federal health insurance program. The primary purpose of this workshop is to help you understand your coverage options and navigate the enrollment process with confidence and clarity. Whether you are nearing age sixty five or helping a family member, this event provides the essential foundation you need to make informed healthcare decisions. During this session, we will break down the fundamental components of Medicare. You will learn the specific steps required to enroll in Parts A and B at the right time. We will provide unbiased comparisons of Medigap, Medicare Advantage, and Part D prescription drug plans. Additionally, you will receive a guided walkthrough of the Medicare.gov portal, showing you exactly how to use the search tools to identify plans that align with your specific medical needs and budget. This event is perfect for anyone seeking clear answers in a low pressure environment. You will leave with a structured plan and the tools to manage your benefits effectively. Join us to demystify Medicare and secure your future. Please register in advance to reserve your spot.