This is a Day Trip to Raleigh/Durham and Cary on December 15. Every October, more than 25 artisans and performers from Tianyu Arts & Culture in Zigong, China arrive in Cary (just outside of Raleigh) to assemble thousands of lanterns and LED lights into 40-plus illuminated displays — a whole world of glowing, twinkling plants, animals, mythical creatures, and even buildings crafted from steel and silk.

The art of Chinese lantern-making has been passed down for more than 2,000 years. The lanterns themselves serve as symbols of peace and prosperity — a treasured holiday wish no matter where you’re from. This Holiday Season you can stroll through the tunnel of silk lanterns into this park of a dazzling display of lanterns, silk creatures and entertainment at the 11th Annual Chinese Lantern Festival. This is one of only 5 locations in the country where you can enjoy this experience.

Earlier in the day, we enjoy a heavy lunch and tour of Christmas decor at one of the most legendary restaurants in the south, The Angus Barn. The restaurant is a Raleigh icon serving American style cuisine including in-house aged steaks, fresh seafood, locally sourced vegetables and homemade desserts. Scroll down to read about the complete menu. The visit to the restaurant also includes a tour of the renowned Christmas decor which is themed, unique and different in each room. Finally, there will be time to browse the famous Country Store.

In between our visits to the Angus Barn and The Chinese Lantern Festival, we will spend a little time at The Streets of Souhpoint for some Holiday shopping. Shopping choices include Nordstrom Macy's, The Apple Store, Crate & Barrel, Sephora, Coach, Cole Haan, Tumi, West Elm and Yankee Candle to name a few.

The day begins with an 9am departure from Leland and we should return between 10/10:30pm. The itinerary can be viewed by scrolling down.

This is a rain or shine event in an outdoor park-like setting.

Guests explore the Festival through a series of paved and gravel pathways. The Festival is well lit and restrooms and food & beverage vendors are plentiful. The loop around the park is 1/2 mile.

In the event of cancellation, a refund can be offered if the trip organizer can resell the trip to another guest.

Social: Angus Barn Relish and Homemade Crackers with House Cheddar and Bleu Cheese

Salad: Mixed Greens with Spiced Pecans & Tomatoes tossed in a Champagne Vinaigrette

Entree Duo: Aged Black Angus Beef Tenderloin with Red Wine Jus and North Atlantic Salmon sautéed in Olive Oil, Topped with Dill Butter. Served with Sautéed Green Beans with Red & Yellow Peppers and Classic Mashed Potatoes and Fresh Baked Bread

Dessert: Chocolate Chess Tartlet with homemade Whipped Cream

Beverages: Coffee, Sweet or Unsweetened tea, can Pepsi products and water

A cash bar will be available for purchase of alcoholic beverages

Menu adjustments can be made for those with dietary restrictions

9am -Departure from the parking lot across the service road from Harris Teeter. exact address and description will follow.

Approx. 11:30am - 2:30pm - Tour, lunch and visit to the Country Store at The Angus Barn

2:30pm - 4:30pm - Shopping at the Streets of Southpoint

5pm - Twilight admission to The Chinese Lantern Festival. We will spend approximately 2 1/2 hours at the Festvial

Approx. 10/10:30pm - Return to Leland