📘Have you been to this amazing new bakery?

Hey Cary, happy Tuesday.

I hope your week is off to a great start and your St. Patrick’s Day weekend was fun! This week is really exciting—there are some really interesting events coming up that I’m excited to tell you about, and I really enjoyed this week’s restaurant spotlight.

Spring is on our doorstep, and things are starting to warm up, so let’s not waste any time and get straight into the things happening around our Town!

In today’s issue:

• The Tobacco Road Marathon is 15 Years Old

• My thoughts on the new bakery in Cary

• An exciting market returns this weekend

• How to support the Cary VFW

— Jake from Cary Digest

News

Tobacco Road Marathon Marks 15 Years

The Tobacco Road Marathon just hit its 15th anniversary, drawing thousands of runners to Cary’s scenic trails. This Boston Marathon-qualifying race is known for its fast, flat course along the American Tobacco Trail, making it a favorite for both elite and casual runners. This year, the event wasn’t just about personal bests—it also raised funds for the American Red Cross Disaster Relief, supporting those impacted by Hurricane Helene.

With near-perfect running weather and strong community support, the race showcased why it’s become a staple in Cary’s spring calendar. From first-timers to seasoned marathoners, participants praised the well-organized course and energetic volunteers. Whether you ran, cheered from the sidelines, or just enjoyed the post-race celebrations, it’s clear that the Tobacco Road Marathon remains one of Cary’s most beloved annual traditions.

This Issue Is Sponsored by… You!

Hey there—normally, I’d be letting a local Cary business sponsor today’s issue of Cary Digest, but this issue is different. This one is sponsored by you, the reader!

Since launching entirely optional paid memberships last month. I made two options, one being the lowest my provider allowed me to charge, and tons of your fellow readers have shown their support for local news!

So to those who have upgraded to a paid subscription and those of you who have shared the newsletter, read every issue, or just given me your kind thoughts by replying to the email, you have my thanks. You’re doing a lot to support local news in a town that almost had none.

P.S. Want to advertise in Cary Digest? Reply to this email or reach out at [email protected]!

Restaurant of the Week: Paris Baguette

Paris Baguette – the internationally loved Korean-French bakery café – is finally open in Cary! Located in Cary Village Square (685 Cary Towne Blvd), it brings a taste of Paris with a South Korean twist. The space is bright, modern, and dog-friendly, making it a perfect spot to relax with a croissant and coffee.

The menu? Dangerously good. Expect flaky pastries, fresh-baked breads, mochi donuts, and savory croissant sandwiches. Early favorites include the croissant donut (yes, that’s a thing) and the signature coffee bun. Since its grand opening on Feb. 22, it’s been packed—but worth the wait. Want a sneak peek? Check out my Instagram reel I made yesterday here.

Overall, I really enjoyed my experience. The staff was friendly, the entire restaurant was incredibly clean and easy to navigate, and the food was delicious. Go check it out!

Today’s poll: Do you go to a gym?

Town Updates

The Nest Playground Nomination

Vote for The Nest! Cary’s new Downtown Park playground, “The Nest,” has been nominated as one of USA Today’s 10Best Public Playgrounds in the nation. This nature-inspired play space has wowed kids and parents since opening, and now it’s getting national attention. You can vote once per day until April 8 to help The Nest clinch the top spot. Let’s show some hometown pride – cast a vote!

Community Events

Cary Night Market – Women’s History Month Edition

Friday, March 21, 5:00–9:00 PM – Downtown Cary Park. The Cary Night Market is back, and this month it’s shining a spotlight on women-owned businesses! Come out to Downtown Cary Park for an evening under the stars filled with local art, crafts, and boutique goodies, plus live music and great food trucks. This vibrant market, organized by The Night Market Co., is a monthly showcase of local artisans and entrepreneurs.

In honor of Women’s History Month, all vendors at this Friday’s edition are female-led businesses, so it’s a perfect opportunity to shop and support our community’s talented women makers. Bring the family (it’s free and for all ages), enjoy the entertainment, and maybe discover your new favorite local product. Pro tip: The event is open-air and goes on rain or shine – so dress for the weather and get ready to mingle and mosey through the market booths.

Veterans of Foreign Wars Steak Night Fundraiser

Join Cary's VFW Post 7383 for their Steak Night on Friday, March 28, from 5:00 to 7:00 PM at 522 Reedy Creek Rd, Cary, NC 27513. This in-person event offers a delicious steak dinner and a chance to support our local veterans. Tickets and donation options are available through their event page. Come enjoy a hearty meal and community camaraderie while honoring those who have served.

Applause! Youth Theatre presents Tuck Everlasting

Friday, March 21, 7:30 PM (opening night) – Cary Arts Center. Cary’s own young performers from Applause! Cary Youth Theatre are bringing a beloved story to the stage this weekend. Tuck Everlasting is a musical based on the classic children’s novel, spinning the tale of Winnie Foster, a young girl who discovers a hidden spring that grants immortality. When she befriends the mysterious Tuck family – who haven’t aged in decades – Winnie is faced with a big choice: Is eternal life a blessing or a curse? 

This heartwarming production is filled with adventure, music, and a touch of magic, suitable for all ages. It’s a great chance to support local theater and the talented kids in our community. The show runs March 21-23 at the Cary Arts Center, so if you can’t make opening night, you have a few chances over the weekend. Tickets are available now (through etix or the Cary Arts Center box office). Come out and cheer on these young stars, and experience a story that reminds us to live life to the fullest.

Things to Do (March 18–21)

Free Events

Cary Night Market | Friday, March 21, 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM ()

• Location: Downtown Cary Park

• Description: A free open-air market featuring 45+ local vendors, live music, and food trucks. March’s edition highlights women-owned businesses in honor of Women’s History Month. Stroll through for crafts, goodies, and great eats under the evening lights.

Film 🎥

Flow | Wednesday, Mar 19, 2:00 PM (Tickets​)

• Location: The Cary Theater

• Description: An animated adventure that just won the 2025 Oscar for Best Animated Film. Flow follows a young hero on a journey through magical realms – a visually stunning, family-friendly movie. (Bonus: Catch it again Sunday if you miss the Wednesday matinee.)

Becoming Led Zeppelin | Wednesday, Mar 19, 7:30 PM (Tickets)

• Location: The Cary Theater

• Description: Rock doc alert! This is the brand-new documentary chronicling the meteoric rise of legendary rock band Led Zeppelin. Packed with rare footage and interviews, it’s a must-see for music lovers and a trip down memory lane for classic rock fans.

Reality Bites | Thursday, Mar 20, 7:30 PM (Tickets)

• Location: The Cary Theater (Indies by the Decade series)

• Description: Flash back to the 90s with this Gen-X cult classic rom-com. Winona Ryder and Ethan Hawke star in a witty look at life after college – complete with flannel shirts, coffee house philosophy, and an iconic soundtrack. Part of The Cary’s “Indies” throwback series, and sure to stir some nostalgia.

Music 🎶

Faster Than Boys | Thursday, Mar 20, 7:00 PM (​More Info)

• Location: Back Then Bar & Grill (Cary – MacGregor Village)

• Description: Get ready to rock! Faster Than Boys is a high-energy local cover band known for “full octane” fun on stage​. They’ll be jamming out hits from across the decades – the perfect soundtrack for a night out. No cover charge; show up early to grab a bite and a brew before the music revs up at 7.

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