Lazy Daze Arts & Crafts Festival Returns to Downtown Cary August 23–24

One of Cary’s biggest annual traditions is back this month. The 49th annual Lazy Daze Arts & Crafts Festival will take place Saturday, August 23 and Sunday, August 24 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Cary Town Hall Campus in downtown Cary.

Map for Lazy Daze – from carync.gov

The juried festival will feature close to 300 artists from across the country, filling the streets with fine art, handcrafted goods, and interactive exhibits. Four entertainment stages will run throughout the weekend, with roving performers such as stilt walkers and musicians adding surprises throughout the grounds.

Food and Drink
More than 25 food vendors will be on site, covering everything from local favorites to international flavors. Andia’s Ice Cream and Two Roosters will both be serving frozen treats, while Cousins Maine Lobster, Safari Eatz, and Bulkogi bring seafood, African-inspired dishes, and Korean barbecue to the menu. In the beer garden, hosted by Cary Sister Cities, visitors can enjoy beer, wine, and seltzer while taking in live performances.

For Kids
Families will find plenty to do in the Kid Daze area. The Kid Collectors Market offers children the chance to purchase small, affordable works from participating festival artists. Kids World at the Page-Walker Arts & History Center Garden will feature activities like face painting, games, and hands-on crafts, while the Play Zone inside the Herb Young Community Center offers an air-conditioned break with more games and activities.

Getting There
Lazy Daze is one of Cary’s most popular events, and people come from all over to be here. As a result, parking downtown will be limited, so festival organizers recommend using one of the free shuttles from South Hills Mall & Plaza or Green Hope High School. Buses will run continuously both days beginning at 8:30 a.m. Free GoCary buses will be running during the event, dropping off at the Cary Depot within walking distance of the festival. See more specific information about getting to Lazy Daze, including accessible parking options, here.

If you must drive, plan on getting to downtown bright and early! Note that the town hall parking deck will be closed to the public (that’s where the vendors/staff have to park).


Lazy Daze has been a Cary tradition since 1977, drawing tens of thousands each year. With art, food, music, and activities for all ages, it remains one of the region’s most celebrated outdoor festivals.

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