North Carolina Chinese Lantern Festival Open Through January 14 in Cary

One of the hidden gems of the holidays in Eastern North Carolina, is the Chinese Lantern Festival in Cary. And there's still time for you to enjoy the festival, as it's open through January 14.

Cary might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of a cultural hub. But let me tell you, this city is all about bringing diverse experiences to its residents! And right now, as we step into the new year, Cary is all decked out in a stunning display of lights and colors for the annual Chinese Lantern Festival at Koka Booth Amphitheater. Trust me, it's a sight you won't want to miss!

The Chinese Lantern Festival is not just your ordinary light show. It's a whole extravaganza of beautifully crafted lanterns, each one telling a unique story from Chinese folklore, tradition, or mythology. And let me tell you, this festival has become a big deal over the years, drawing in both locals and tourists alike. It's not just about the lanterns though. You can also enjoy live music, dance performances, martial arts, and get a taste of some delicious authentic Chinese food and drinks. It's a true feast for the senses!

According to the event website, "Cary’s signature festival of light returns with new lanterns, performances, and unique experiences. Last year’s festival drew guests from all 100 counties in North Carolina, plus visitors from 50 U.S. states and territories. Cary’s Koka Booth Amphitheatre is proud to host this treasured destination event."

Every year, they come up with a new theme that's even more stunning than the last. From majestic Phoenix lanterns to incredible Chinese Dragons and even an underwater world, the attention to detail and sheer size of these lanterns will blow your mind. But it's not just about the visual spectacle. The Chinese Lantern Festival is about celebrating diversity, cultural exchange, and bringing people together. It's a beautiful bridge that connects the people of North Carolina with the rich tapestry of Chinese culture.

So, as you make your plans for the new year, why not consider a visit to the Chinese Lantern Festival in Cary? I promise you, it'll be an unforgettable experience that will leave you in awe of art, culture, and community. Don't miss out! I plan to check it out over the weekend, but you have until January 14 to see it for yourself.

Click here for tickets!

We have kicked off the new year, and many people are using it as an opportunity to ditch booze for the entire first month of 2024. The "Dry January" trend encourages people to abstain from alcohol for 31 days straight.

Originating as a campaign devised and spearheaded by Alcohol Change UK over a decade ago, Dry January serves the purpose of addressing the adverse effects of alcohol, as outlined on their website. In response to this movement, numerous restaurants and bars are adapting their menus to include mocktails and nonalcoholic versions of popular drinks, including nonalcoholic beers and wines. Although not a new concept, its popularity is on the rise.

Many sober-curious people in the United States take on this annual challenge. According to previous surveys by Morning Consult Pro, participation in Dry January ranges from 15% to 35% among U.S. drinkers overall.

Statista projects that the revenue in the non-alcoholic drinks market in the United States will reach US$526.1 billion in 2024, with an estimated annual growth rate of 3.22% (CAGR 2024-2027). This surge is attributed to an escalating demand for healthy and natural non-alcoholic beverages in the country.

Harvard Health Publishing has reported that even a one-month abstinence from alcohol can hold noticeable health benefits. A study in BMJ Open found that regular drinkers who refrained from alcohol for 30 days experienced improved sleep, increased energy, weight loss, lower blood pressure, reduced cholesterol levels, and diminished cancer-related proteins in their blood.

So, if you're thinking about dialing back on the booze or just starting the year with a clean slate, why not jump on the Dry January train and give up beer, wine, or spirits for a month? And if you're curious about some cool nonalcoholic options to enjoy during Dry January, check out some of our top picks.

When it comes to nonalcoholic beer that captures the essence of a lager, Heineken 0.0 stands out as a reliable pick. It's only 69 calories per serving and has fruity, malty flavors. Someone even took to Reddit to share their love for the NA beer with many people agreeing that Heineken 0.0 tastes better than the "real" Heineken.

Samuel Adams's Just the Haze kicks off with a citrusy aroma, featuring the scents of grapefruit, tangerine, and lime alongside tropical fruit flavors like pineapple, guava, and passion fruit. Visually, it has a hazy pale amber look with a golden-orange glow. It's worth mentioning that according to the Samuel Adams website, the "non-alc Hazy IPA" has less than 0.5% alcohol and is only 98 calories.

The Gruvi NA Dry Red Blend has cranberry and cherry aromas with hints of cardamom and nutmeg. With a gluten-free and vegan-friendly tag, it packs less than 0.5% ABV and only 45 calories per serving. According to their website, it was an award winner at the International Wine and Spirits Competition 23. If red wine isn't really your thing, they also have a line of white wines.

There are plenty of nonalcoholic liquor replacements and not all of them are created equal or carry the flavor of actual alcohol. Ritual Zero Proof is an easy choice. They have alternatives to tequila, whiskey, rum, gin, among others. Their tequila substitute brings a tropical and earthy flavor.  Meanwhile, their rum substitute captures the warm vanilla and toasted spice essence of a dark rum. They also carry gin and whiskey alternatives.

Three Spirits Elixirs are designed by plant scientists and bartenders to "make moods and enhance connections throughout the day and into the night." They pack their drinks full of active plants, adaptogens, and herbs. Their NA drinks cocktails are 100% vegan and cruelty-free.