Hi Cary, Happy Friday!

Before we get into today’s issue, I wanted to let you know that I will not be publishing Cary Digest on the Friday after Thanksgiving. There’s just no way I’ll be able to move after Thanksgiving dinner.

I know you still may want to make some plans for the weekend, so I’ll have Tuesday’s issue cover events for the full week. That’s all for today, enjoy!

Anyway, here’s what you can expect in Today’s issue:

— Jake from Cary Digest

Carla Michaels has been named the recipient of Cary’s 2025 Hometown Spirit Award, an annual honor recognizing citizens who embody the values of service, community, and tradition. Mayor Harold Weinbrecht announced the award at a reception celebrating this year’s three finalists. A lifelong Cary resident with deep family roots in the area, Michaels was recognized for her commitment to preserving the town’s heritage through historical research, education, and advocacy. Her work with local groups such as Friends of the Page-Walker, the Upchurch and Allied Families, and the Daughters of the American Revolution has made her a central figure in Cary’s preservation community.

Michaels’ passion for storytelling and history is seen in her engaging walking tours, lectures, and contributions to town initiatives like “Cary at 150.” Her efforts have helped protect cherished landmarks including the Nancy Jones House and the Ivey-Ellington House, while also honoring veterans and lesser-known historical figures. Described by peers as warm, generous, and humble, Michaels was chosen from among other finalists Matthew Gronke and Nancy Haywood. The Hometown Spirit Award, inspired by a citizen’s idea, honors residents who actively enhance Cary’s small-town charm through service, patriotism, and a dedication to community life.

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Oakview Public House in Holly Springs blends polished pub fare with a comfortable neighborhood feel. The interior features rustic wood tones and a cozy atmosphere, while the outdoor patio offers a relaxed setting for dining al fresco. Signature dishes include a juicy pimento cheeseburger, flavorful shrimp and grits, and crispy rosemary-garlic fries. A rotating lineup of local craft beers and creative cocktails complements the menu, making it a go-to spot for both lunch and dinner.

The restaurant is known for its consistent quality, friendly service, and welcoming ambiance. Weekly events like trivia nights and live music create a lively backdrop without overwhelming the dining experience. Conveniently located near the intersection of Avent Ferry and Cass Holt Road, Oakview Public House has become a reliable favorite for Holly Springs residents who appreciate good food and genuine hospitality in a familiar setting.

Dynamix Performing Arts Academy presents Annie the Musical at Herbert Akins Road Middle School, running November 21–22. This high-energy production features talented local kids and adults performing beloved songs and scenes from the classic show. Expect big laughs, heartfelt moments, and a reminder that “you’re never fully dressed without a smile.” Tickets are available now at https://www.etix.com/ticket/o/16536/dynamixpaa

Cary Night Market (Holiday Market)
Time: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Location: Downtown Cary Park, 321 S Academy St, Cary, NC
Description: Outdoor holiday market with dozens of local vendors selling crafts, gifts, and festive foods.
Link: https://triangleonthecheap.com/cary-night-market/

Tree Lighting Celebration at Waverly Place
Time: 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Location: Waverly Place, 302 Colonades Way, Cary, NC
Description: Free festive event with live music, children’s activities, Santa visits, and the official lighting of the holiday tree.
Link: https://triangleonthecheap.com/waverly-place-cary-christmas/

Winter Wonderland (Park West Village, Morrisville)
Time: 5:30 PM – 8:30 PM
Location: Park West Village, 3400 Village Market Pl, Morrisville, NC
Description: Holiday family festival with train rides, crafts, face painting, outdoor movie, and visits with Santa at Park West Village.
Link: https://parkwestvillage.com/events/winter-wonderland/

NC Chinese Lantern Festival (Cary)
Time: 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Location: Koka Booth Amphitheatre, 8003 Regency Pkwy, Cary, NC
Description: Evening festival of illuminated Chinese lantern displays and cultural performances (runs Fri–Sun nightly).
Link: https://www.boothamphitheatre.com/events-tickets/events/chinese-lantern-festival

Karaoke Bingo Night at KōMANA Brewing
Time: 9:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Location: KōMANA Brewing Company, 1020 Ryan Rd, Cary, NC
Description: Fun weekly event combining karaoke singing with bingo games and prizes at a local brewery.
Link: https://komanabrewing.com

Comedy Show: Jeremy Alder & E.J. Masicampo
Time: 8:00 PM
Location: The Cary Theater, 122 E Chatham St, Cary, NC
Description: Stand-up comedy night featuring rising comic Jeremy Alder headlining with North Carolina funnyman E.J. Masicampo opening.
Link: https://thecarytheater.com/event/comedy-show-jeremy-alder-and-e-j-masicampo/the-cary/cary/

Cary Downtown Farmers Market
Time: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Location: Downtown Cary Park (160 E Park St), Cary, NC
Description: Weekly open-air market with local produce, baked goods, crafts, and live music in Downtown Cary.
Link: https://www.caryfarmersmarket.com

Holly Springs Farmers Market
Time: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Location: 300 W Ballentine St, Holly Springs, NC
Description: Year-round outdoor market with fresh produce, pasture-raised meats, local honey, baked goods, and artisan foods.
Link: https://www.hollyspringsnc.gov/319/Farmers-Market

Apex Farmers Market
Time: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Location: Depot Plaza, 220 N Salem St, Apex, NC
Description: Community market at the Depot Plaza offering seasonal produce, handmade crafts, and local specialty foods.
Link: https://www.apexfarmersmarket.com

A Day at Hogwarts (Apex)
Time: 10:30 AM – 3:30 PM
Location: The Studio, 106 W Chatham St, Apex, NC
Description: Free Harry Potter–themed festival with butterbeer and themed treats, trivia and photo booths, crafts, and costumes for fans of all ages.
Link: https://thetriangleweekender.com/event/a-day-at-hogwarts/

Cary Really, Really Free Market
Time: 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Location: Walnut Street Park, 1420 Walnut St, Cary, NC
Description: Community swap meet where people give away items they no longer need – everything is free, no buying or selling.
Link: https://triangleonthecheap.com/cary-really-really-free-market/

Light the Square at Fenton (Cary)
Time: 3:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Location: Fenton Town Center, 855 Cary Towne Blvd, Cary, NC
Description: Free holiday celebration with a Christmas market of local vendors, outdoor ice skating, live music and dance performances, and Santa’s grand tree-lighting ceremony.
Link: https://triangleonthecheap.com/fenton-tree-lighting/

Winter Wonderland (Park West Village, Morrisville)
Time: 5:30 PM – 8:30 PM
Location: Park West Village, 3400 Village Market Pl, Morrisville, NC
Description: Continuation of the holiday family festival at Park West Village, with festive lights, entertainment, and kids’ activities.
Link: https://parkwestvillage.com/events/winter-wonderland/

NC Chinese Lantern Festival (Cary)
Time: 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Location: Koka Booth Amphitheatre, 8003 Regency Pkwy, Cary, NC
Description: Lantern festival with giant illuminated lantern sculptures and live performances (continues through Sunday).
Link: https://www.boothamphitheatre.com/events-tickets/events/chinese-lantern-festival

Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale (Family Movie)
Time: 12:00 PM
Location: The Cary Theater, 122 E Chatham St, Cary, NC
Description: Matinee screening of the new Downton Abbey movie (Rated PG) at the historic Cary Theater.
Link: https://thecarytheater.com/event/downton-abbey-the-grand-finale-7/

Winter Wonderland (Park West Village, Morrisville)
Time: 2:00 PM – 5:30 PM
Location: Park West Village, 3400 Village Market Pl, Morrisville, NC
Description: Final day of holiday festivities at Park West Village with Santa storytime, crafts, an inflatable slide, and more family fun.
Link: https://parkwestvillage.com/events/winter-wonderland/

Bluegrass Open Jam (Cary)
Time: 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Location: Bond Brothers Eastside, 602 E Chatham St, Cary, NC
Description: Free weekly bluegrass jam session at Bond Brothers Brewery’s Eastside venue – musicians and music lovers of all levels are welcome.
Link: https://www.bondbrothersbeer.com

NC Chinese Lantern Festival (Cary)
Time: 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Location: Koka Booth Amphitheatre, 8003 Regency Pkwy, Cary, NC
Description: Final evening of the Chinese Lantern Festival at Koka Booth, featuring dazzling illuminated artworks and cultural performances.
Link: https://www.boothamphitheatre.com/events-tickets/events/chinese-lantern-festival

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