Queer Lake Day

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.

Glitter Hour is a monthly amateur drag competition designed to showcase emerging talent and celebrate local performance art. This recurring event serves as a qualifying stage where performers compete for a monthly title and earn an opportunity to advance toward the Glitter Winner 2026 championship. Participants of all styles and experience levels are invited to display their unique artistry on stage. Attendees can expect an evening of diverse drag performances that highlight creativity, charisma, and stage presence. The format features multiple competitors vying for the crown, with the audience actively participating in the decision process. This interactive element ensures that every show is unique and directly influenced by the energy of the room. The event focuses on quality entertainment and a structured competitive environment. This event is ideal for anyone interested in supporting local drag artists and experiencing live performance culture. The atmosphere is professional yet high energy, making it an engaging space for new and seasoned fans alike. Join us to experience the latest in local drag talent and help crown the next winner. Your vote plays a key role in determining the outcome of the competition.

Join us at Bitter Social for an exclusive listening party celebrating the release of the new Madonna album. This event invites fans to experience the record in a social setting while connecting with other enthusiasts in the local community. Throughout the evening, we will play the new album in its entirety. Guests can order food from Centro until 9:30 pm, offering a convenient dining option for those arriving early or staying for the full duration. Additionally, our full menu of cocktails will be available at a special rate of 12 dollars each for all attendees. The venue provides a dedicated space designed for high-quality audio playback and comfortable socializing. This gathering is perfect for dedicated Madonna fans who enjoy immersive music experiences. Whether you are coming alone or with friends, the atmosphere is designed to be welcoming and energetic. We encourage you to arrive on time to enjoy the full album playback and take advantage of our food and beverage offerings. Secure your spot today to celebrate this musical milestone with fellow listeners at Bitter Social.

Paint in the Park is an outdoor community art event hosted by Stonewall Sports Raleigh where participants create a rainbow sunset featuring the Raleigh skyline. This inaugural event invites community members to gather for an afternoon of painting and socializing in a relaxed park setting. All painting supplies are provided through generous donations from our community members. Attendees will receive step-by-step guidance from member Mallory as they create their own unique art pieces. Beyond painting, this gathering serves as an opportunity to enjoy a picnic, share snacks, and connect with fellow participants in a welcoming environment. The event supports the 2026 beneficiary, the Triangle Pride Band, through a required 10 dollar donation to reserve your art supplies. This event is designed for anyone interested in creative expression, meeting new people, and supporting a local nonprofit. We encourage you to bring your favorite blanket, beverages, and snacks to enjoy throughout the afternoon. Please secure your spot early to ensure materials are reserved for your arrival. We look forward to seeing you there for a productive and engaging community experience.

We will celebrate America’s 250th birthday with a fun, patriotic train ride on July 1 at 10:30am! Be sure to wear your patriotic red, white and blue and keep your eye out for Uncle Sam. We’ll have miniature flags to wave during the ride!

Join us at Dix Park for an exciting opportunity to explore the wonders of mathematics through hands-on discovery. Math Makers is designed to engage curious minds by blending creative construction with the beauty of nature and culture. Participants will work together to build unique projects that demonstrate how mathematical concepts shape the world around us. This interactive program encourages participants to develop problem solving skills while enjoying the vibrant outdoor environment of the park. As a special highlight of this program, every attendee will receive a complimentary math kit to take home. These kits are curated to ensure that your playful exploration can continue long after the event concludes. Whether you are a budding mathematician or simply looking for an engaging community activity, this series offers something special for everyone to enjoy. Please note that space is limited for each session to ensure a quality experience for all. Registration is required and opens two weeks prior to each program date at 12:00 pm. This program is offered free to the public through the generous support of the Dix Park Conservancy donors. Secure your spot today to join our community of makers.

Embark on an immersive educational journey with your preschooler at the Annie Louise Wilkerson Nature Preserve. Our Eager Explorers program is specifically designed to foster a deep appreciation for the outdoors through engaging stories, creative crafts, and guided nature walks tailored to weekly themes. From investigating local baby animals and the secret lives of insects to searching for signs of pond life, your child will discover the wonder of the natural world in a hands-on environment. These sessions provide a wonderful opportunity for bonding, as adults and children work together to explore various trails and wildlife habitats. Please note that several of our trail activities are best enjoyed on foot, as they are not accessible by strollers. We invite you to be part of this vibrant community of budding naturalists this season. Each session is carefully crafted to spark curiosity and inspire future conservationists. Space is limited for these interactive adventures, and pre-registration is required to secure your spot. Visit our website today to view our full schedule of themes and register your child to join the exploration.

Discover the transformative power of your voice at Unisong, a series of guided song circles designed to nourish your heart and soul. Whether you are a seasoned vocalist or a complete beginner, these ninety-minute sessions offer a welcoming space to explore the healing potential of collective sound. Guided by facilitators Deja Belle and Tessie Castillo, participants engage in purposeful singing and movement designed to process emotion, celebrate nature, and foster deep vibrational connections with others in the community. These gatherings act as a sanctuary for restoration, allowing you to release tension through song and intentional movement. From joyful melodies to deep, resonant humming, every session is crafted to provide a unique journey of self-discovery and collective harmony. Join us at our various locations in Siler City, Durham, and Raleigh to experience this profound practice firsthand. All sessions are completely free and open to individuals ages fifteen and older. Space is limited, so we encourage you to secure your spot today by visiting our official Eventbrite page. Come prepared to open your heart and join our vibrant community of singers as we harmonize for wellness and connection.

Discover the transformative power of communal vocal expression at Unisong: Guided Song Circles. These immersive ninety-minute sessions provide a welcoming environment where individuals of all skill levels can explore the healing potential of their voices. Whether you are seeking a space to release stress, celebrate joy, or find deep emotional restoration through song and movement, these circles offer a unique sanctuary for personal growth and connection. Guided by experienced leaders Deja Belle and Tessie Castillo, participants are invited to hum, clap, and sing in harmony with others to foster a sense of collective well-being. These sessions are designed for those aged fifteen and older, ensuring a focused and meaningful experience for all attendees. Because these events are offered free of charge, they remain an accessible opportunity for community members to engage in restorative practices. We encourage you to experience these soul-stirring journeys firsthand at our upcoming sessions in Durham and Siler City. Visit the official Eventbrite page to reserve your spot and explore the full calendar of dates available through the end of the year.

Join our park naturalist for an educational guided hike designed to explore the local ecosystem. This event offers an opportunity to discover the diverse plants and animals that inhabit our park trails while gaining expert insights into the natural environment. Participants will traverse at least one mile of natural-surfaced terrain. You will observe seasonal flora and fauna in their native habitats and learn about park conservation efforts. This experience is designed to be informative and interactive, providing a deeper connection to the wilderness through guided observation and discussion. This hike is recommended for individuals aged eight and older. All children must be accompanied by an adult throughout the duration of the event. To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, please wear sturdy closed-toe shoes and bring a full water bottle for hydration. The group will meet at the park office before departure. Space is limited for this outdoor experience and advance registration is required to secure your spot. We invite you to sign up today to learn more about the unique natural history of our beautiful parklands.