North Carolina Chinese Lantern Festival — Attraction in Cary

I have wanted to check this out for years. It’s a nearly 3 hour drive from my house. I decided this was the year since I had New Years off. I do not do well in heavy crowds and was a little nervous. It was amazing!! We arrived at 5:50, were able to park immediately, and walked to the gate with no wait just after 6 (it’s a decent walk from the free parking). We hit the restrooms and it was like 6:15, so we went to see the 6:30 show. The performers were so talented and the musician that followed them was incredible. We chose spots further back so we could see over the crowd, but I wish we’d been closer to see the Chinese Opera face changing performer more clearly. We spent the next two hours exploring the lights, taking too many photos, and checking out the marketplace. Yes, people stand 6 inches in front of the lights making it impossible to get the shot unless you’re willing to wait. People walk in front of your camera or bump into you. It’s a big crowd, it’s bound to happen. That said, I found most people to be pretty kind and laid back. We were easily able to stop at each of the displays and chat and take pictures. The only place I felt a little rushed was the sea life display. The pavement is a little more narrow with heavy crowds moving both ways, making it hard to pull over and admire a piece. I was also about maxed out on public socialization at that point so my anxiety there may have been more perceived than actual. I was definitely over the crowds at the end, but it was not an obstacle that would prevent me from returning. I might try the Twilight tickets next time. Expect crowds, know what you’re getting into, and you’ll be able to enjoy the beautiful lanterns. For me and my family, we will definitely be returning. Each piece was a work of art and I cannot wait to see more in the future!

FYI my mother has somewhat limited mobility and did not have any major issues. There are mostly paved pathways to follow and decent lighting. I would probably get the preferred parking if I took her again just because she was already tired from the walk when we got...

Attending the Chinese Lantern Festival was an enchanting and unforgettable experience. The festival transformed the night into a vibrant tapestry of light, color, and culture. As I wandered through the grounds, I was immediately immersed in a world of beautifully crafted lanterns, each telling its own story.

The variety was astounding—ranging from intricate dragon designs to delicate lotus flowers, and each lantern was a testament to the artistry and craftsmanship of its creators. The attention to detail and the vibrant colors were mesmerizing, making it impossible not to feel a sense of wonder and awe.

What truly set this festival apart was the immersive atmosphere. The gentle glow of the lanterns created a magical ambiance, inviting visitors to lose themselves in the beauty of the moment. Traditional music played softly in the background, adding a soothing soundtrack to the visual feast. Interactive displays allowed us to engage with the culture in a more personal way, making the experience even more memorable.

The Chinese Lantern Festival was more than just a visual treat—it was a celebration of culture, creativity, and community. It was a joyous occasion that left me feeling inspired and connected. I would highly recommend this festival to anyone looking for a unique and...

If you want to experience something really cool to do in the month of January, I would highly recommend checking out Cary, NC Chinese Lantern Festival. This event is VERY popular, so tickets are in high demand. Order them early! If you wait to buy tickets onsite they may be completely sold out. We ordered our tickets online several weeks in advance since we wanted to go during the weekend. Parking was very organized and plentiful, the snacks were great. (Those apple cinnamon potstickers were divine!) And the performances were entertaining. But it was the lanterns that stole the show! This is the second year we’ve gone. 2023 was a Mythological theme and this year 2024 theme was Dino’s and Seascape. The different themes make it worth coming back every year! Will definitely check out what they have in...