Toddler Tuesday: Tangle of Tales Puppet Show

Life at the Waters Edge is an educational outdoor session exploring the ecological design and biodiversity of the Downtown Cary Park pond. This program introduces participants to the specific plants and wildlife that inhabit our local aquatic ecosystem while explaining the sustainable management practices that keep the area healthy and vibrant for all visitors. Guided by Downtown Cary Park horticulturist and Emmy-award winning naturalist Dr. Patrick McMillan, attendees will receive a professional overview of the pond environment. You will examine the complex relationships between native flora and fauna while gaining insight into how urban park management fosters a thriving natural habitat. This experience bridges the gap between scientific observation and public landscape design in an accessible way. This event is designed for nature enthusiasts, local residents, and anyone interested in sustainable park management. The session takes place entirely outdoors and involves walking around the pond area to observe wildlife firsthand. Please dress comfortably for outdoor conditions, wear appropriate footwear for walking, and bring your own water to stay hydrated throughout the duration of the class. We look forward to seeing you at the pond.

Gather: A Seasonal Supper is an exclusive farm-to-table dining experience held at the Gathering House in Downtown Cary Park. This one-night-only event showcases the best of North Carolina culinary talent through a curated three-course meal featuring locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. Guests will begin the evening with hors d oeuvres and cocktails from Flour and Barrel and Side Door Cocktail Bar. The main course features wood-fired dishes by chef Jake Wood of Lawrence Barbecue, followed by artisanal breads and desserts from Christopher McLaurin of Lutra Bakery. Every component of the menu is chef-selected to highlight the regional landscape and provide a high-quality dining experience. This event is ideal for food enthusiasts and those looking to enjoy an immersive evening in a sophisticated park setting. The atmosphere combines communal dining with ambient lighting to create a welcoming social environment. Please note that the kitchen can accommodate dietary restrictions and allergies upon request. We invite you to join us for this unique celebration of seasonal flavors and local craftsmanship. Secure your place now for an unforgettable evening of culinary artistry in the heart of the park.

Music Bingo is an interactive game night held at Downtown Cary Park where players identify popular songs to fill out their bingo cards. This event combines traditional bingo mechanics with a curated music playlist to create an engaging experience for the community. Participants can expect a fast paced game featuring a variety of musical genres that serve as the foundation for each round. As songs play attendees check their cards to identify the tracks and work toward completing their winning patterns. The event includes competitive rounds and opportunities to win prizes for those who secure a bingo first. It offers a structured way to enjoy live entertainment while participating in a social activity. This event is designed for music enthusiasts, friends, and families looking for an entertaining outdoor activity in the park. The atmosphere is energetic and inclusive, welcoming participants of all skill levels. We encourage everyone to gather their friends and join us for this unique musical experience. Please arrive early to secure your spot and prepare to play for a chance to win.

Join a park naturalist for an educational guided hike through the local ecosystem. This event offers participants a unique opportunity to explore the trail system while learning about the native plants and animals that inhabit our protected park lands. During this guided experience, you will traverse diverse terrains as the naturalist points out significant ecological features and wildlife habitats. The session is designed to provide deeper insight into regional biology through direct observation and expert interpretation. Participants will gain a better understanding of the natural processes that sustain our environment and learn how to identify various local species in their natural setting. This hike is intended for nature enthusiasts and anyone interested in local ecology. We recommend this experience for individuals comfortable walking at least one mile on uneven paths. Please ensure you are prepared for the outing by wearing sturdy closed-toe shoes and carrying a full water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the trek. We invite you to join us for an informative morning outdoors where you can connect with nature, ask questions, and enjoy the scenery alongside an experienced professional who is dedicated to park conservation.

The Got to Be NC Festival is a three day community celebration hosted at the North Carolina State Fairgrounds. This annual event showcases the best of the state by highlighting local products, agriculture, and regional culture in one central location. Attendees can explore a vast array of exhibits featuring North Carolina made food, beverages, and crafts. The festival grounds host live musical performances, agricultural demonstrations, and interactive displays suitable for all ages. Visitors will find plenty of opportunities to sample local goods while learning about the industry and heritage that define the state. The layout ensures easy navigation through different vendor sections and entertainment areas. This event is designed for families, local residents, and visitors who want to experience authentic North Carolina hospitality. The atmosphere is casual, welcoming, and perfect for a weekend outing with friends. Admission to the festival and parking are both completely free for everyone. Plan your visit to support local businesses and enjoy a festive environment that celebrates the unique identity of North Carolina. We invite you to join the community for this comprehensive state showcase.

Let’s Make Maps is an educational program focused on the history and creation of cartography. Participants will explore how various maps have been constructed throughout history and apply these techniques by creating their own maps of the Prairie Ridge area. During the session, attendees will discover how mapping connects to global citizen science initiatives. You will learn practical ways to contribute to projects that monitor and conserve ecosystems. The experience involves a short walk of approximately one half mile to our outdoor classroom where we will conduct our mapping activities. This program bridges the gap between historical craft and modern environmental science, providing you with the tools to document the natural world. This event is perfect for anyone curious about geography or conservation efforts. We encourage participants of all skill levels to join us for this engaging outdoor experience. Please dress appropriately for the current weather conditions, as we will be walking to our site from the main building near the parking lot. We look forward to seeing you there for a productive and educational afternoon of mapping and environmental discovery.

The Fine Arts League of Cary proudly presents the 16th Annual Wake County Teen Art Exhibition, a vibrant celebration of creativity showcasing over 100 works by talented student artists from across Wake County. On view May 6–27, 2026, at the Frankie G. Weems Gallery on the campus of Meredith College, this professionally curated exhibition highlights the exceptional achievements of young artists selected by their teachers. Join the community for a special public reception and awards ceremony on May 10, 2026, from 2:00–4:00 p.m., where $20,000 in prizes will be awarded to students and their schools. Sponsored by Cary Family Dental and supported by local arts organizations and Meredith College, the exhibition not only honors artistic excellence but also reinvests in school art programs, helping foster the next generation of creative thinkers. Now in its 16th year, this inspiring event underscores the importance of arts education while offering students a meaningful opportunity to exhibit their work in a gallery setting. All are welcome to attend and experience the creativity, imagination, and talent of Wake County’s young artists.

Experience the magic of literature and the beauty of the outdoors this May with the Wake County Parks StoryWalks initiative. This unique program combines physical activity with early literacy, allowing families to enjoy a children book page by page as they navigate scenic nature trails. It is an excellent way to encourage a love for reading while exploring the diverse landscapes of our local park system. Throughout the month, various parks will feature rotating story selections, offering fresh adventures for recurring visitors. Whether you are strolling through the walkways of Oak View or wandering the natural paths of Harris Lake, these curated experiences provide a refreshing escape for readers of all ages. We invite you and your family to visit these sites throughout May to engage with these wonderful tales in an immersive environment. Please check the official park schedules to plan your visit and ensure you have plenty of time to enjoy the trails until sunset. Grab your walking shoes and prepare for a delightful journey where every step leads to a new page of discovery. We look forward to seeing you out on the trail soon.

Experience the botanical wonder of Juniper Level Botanic Garden and Plant Delights Nursery during their exclusive seasonal open house events. Spanning twenty eight acres in Raleigh, North Carolina, this world renowned destination showcases over thirty thousand unique plant varieties, including rare perennials, exotic specimens, and unusual trees collected from global expeditions. Whether you are a dedicated horticulturalist or a passionate home gardener, you will find endless inspiration wandering through these meticulously maintained display gardens and research spaces. These open weekend events provide a rare opportunity for the public to explore the grounds without prior reservations. Discover new favorites for your own landscape while shopping for unique additions in the onsite sales greenhouses. The nursery is committed to educational excellence and botanical diversity, making this an essential destination for nature enthusiasts of all backgrounds. Join us for a weekend of discovery and community in a truly remarkable setting. Admission and parking are entirely free, and the event proceeds rain or shine. Visit our website today to plan your trip and browse our extensive online catalogue for your next planting project.