Sensory Journey through Art

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.

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.

If you're looking for a cultural outing this summer, the 31st Annual Juried Exhibition hosted by the Fine Arts League of Cary is one of the most anticipated art events in the Triangle. Held at the historic Page-Walker Arts & History Center in Cary, this highly competitive exhibition showcases some of the best artistic talent from across North Carolina and beyond - and it's completely free to attend. A wide range of two-dimensional art, from abstract to realism Paintings, drawings, and mixed media pieces Artwork created by both emerging and established regional artists All pieces are available for purchase, making this a great opportunity to introduce kids to art collecting or find a unique piece for your home. Key Dates & Details Submission Period (for artists): April 15 – June 15, 2026 Exhibition Dates: June 30 – September 14, 2026 Location: Page-Walker Arts & History Center, Cary Admission: Free Gallery Hours: Monday–Thursday: Noon – 9:00 PM Friday: Noon – 5:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM Sunday: Closed The exhibition continues to grow each year. In 2025 alone: Over 650 entries were submitted More than 230 artists participated Only around 70 works were selected

Experience the charm and rich heritage of North Carolina's capital with the Historic Raleigh Trolley Tours. This captivating one-hour journey invites you to explore Downtown Raleigh, offering a unique perspective on the historic sites and iconic landmarks that have shaped the city since its founding in 1792. As you ride, you will delve into the vibrant community and cultural evolution that define this historic landscape. Tours depart every Saturday from March through December at the picturesque Mordecai Historic Park. With convenient departure times at 11 a.m., 12 p.m., 1 p.m., and 2 p.m., it is easy to find a slot that fits your busy weekend schedule. Whether you are a local resident or a visiting tourist, this immersive experience provides valuable insights into the heart of the city. Tickets are affordably priced at 10 dollars for adults and 6 dollars for youth, while children aged six and under ride for free. We encourage you to secure your spot today by visiting the Mordecai Historic Park Visitor Center or calling 919-996-4364. Join us for an unforgettable afternoon discovering the stories of Raleigh.

Experience the rich history of North Carolina with a visit to the State Capitol, a stunning National Historic Landmark located in the heart of Raleigh. Completed in 1840, this architectural gem serves as a premier example of Greek Revival design. Whether you are a local history enthusiast or a visitor exploring the city, this site offers a fascinating look into the legislative past of the state. We invite you to join our free guided tours held every Saturday at 11 a.m., 1 p.m., and 3 p.m. No reservations are necessary for these immersive sessions, which cover the rotunda, the historic legislative chambers, and the Governor’s office area. If your schedule is tight, self-guided tours are also available throughout the week to accommodate your pace. This is an exceptional opportunity to learn about the governance and heritage of North Carolina in an engaging setting. We encourage you to contact the Capitol office or visit our online page for the most current schedule updates. Come explore this historic treasure with us this weekend.