Here’s what’s in today’s issue:
• 🧠 Trivia Challenge: Spotlight Hook
• ✅ Corrections: What We Got Wrong
• 🎁 Discover Cary (Gift Idea): CARYOPOLY
• ✈️ Airline Travel: Hello Lisbon, Portugal!
• 🚗 Drivable Destinations: Explore North Carolina's Diverse Wine Trails
• 😄 Meme of the Day – Just for laughs
• ❤️ Shout-out: Thank You, Dawn D'Onofrio!
• 🎁 Adventure starts close to home: Show your support
• 📅 Events: Planning your week in Cary?
👉 Browse the highlights. Skip to your favorites.
Did someone forward you our Cary newsletter? Then subscribe here
Question: A group of lizards is called what?
(Answer at the bottom of the newsletter.)
✅ Corrections: What We Got Wrong
Most publications (some people might think of newspapers) will hide their corrections in small print on the back page. We’re not a newspaper, when we get something wrong, we promptly make an edit to the online edition. Thank you for your feedback.
Issue #789 Trivia Question: In Saturday’s issue, we posted the wrong trivia question, so the answer didn’t match. The correct question was: What is the largest park in Cary, NC? We’ve fixed the answer in the online version. See the correction.
If you have questions about advertising, email: [email protected]
CARYOPOLY
Cary, North Carolina, has added a unique treasure to its collection of local delights—a board game named CARYOPOLY. Now available at Walgreens, this game offers residents and visitors a playful tour of the town’s notable landmarks, restaurants, and shops.
CARYOPOLY Credit: Cary Spotlight
CARYOPOLY, a creative twist on the classic Monopoly game, allows players to purchase iconic locations such as Bond Park, Phillips Farms, Chatham Street, and the Triangle Aquatic Center. While these spots might be a revelation for newcomers, they are well-loved by locals.
This local version of the game is produced by Late for the Sky Production Company, which has been crafting specialty board games since 1984. Their portfolio includes a variety of OPOLY games themed around animals, colleges, and food.
The creation of CARYOPOLY underscores the pride residents have in their community, offering a tangible way to celebrate and share it. Players can find similar games for neighboring towns like Apex, Fuquay-Varina, and Raleigh.
On a personal note, I was delighted to receive CARYOPOLY as a birthday gift, reflecting my enthusiasm for Cary and my role as the founder of Cary Spotlight. The game even led me to virtually purchase Kababish Cafe, a restaurant we have featured in our newsletter. I encourage readers to visit Kababish Cafe in real life and mention Cary Spotlight for a warm welcome.
Have you heard about the CARYOPOLY board game?
Do you have a favorite place to eat in Cary, NC? Click to share your pick.
Hello Lisbon, Portugal!
Gateway to Golden Age Monuments and Coastal Charm
Welcome to Lisbon, Portugal, a place where centuries-old history meets modern café culture, where colorful tiled buildings cascade down seven hills to meet the Atlantic, and where the sounds of traditional fado music drift through cobblestone streets at night. While there are no direct flights from RDU (Raleigh-Durham) to Lisbon's Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS), you can easily reach Portugal's sun-soaked capital with convenient one-stop connections on airlines like United, Delta, American, and TAP Air Portugal. Whether you're drawn by world-class museums, mouth-watering custard tarts, or romantic hilltop viewpoints, Lisbon delivers an unforgettable European experience without breaking the bank.
Why Visit Lisbon?
Belém's UNESCO Treasures: The riverside neighborhood of Belém houses two stunning World Heritage Sites that showcase Portugal's Age of Discovery glory. The Jerónimos Monastery amazes visitors with its ornate Manueline architecture and carved stone cloisters, while the nearby Belém Tower rises from the water like a fairytale fortress that once guided explorers to distant lands.
Alfama and São Jorge Castle: This is Lisbon's oldest neighborhood, a maze of narrow streets that survived the devastating 1755 earthquake. Climb to the hilltop São Jorge Castle for breathtaking views across terracotta rooftops to the Tagus River below, then wander down through Alfama's winding lanes filled with local taverns, colorful laundry lines, and the soulful sounds of fado music.
Sintra's Royal Palaces: Just 30 minutes from Lisbon by train, this UNESCO-listed town feels like stepping into a storybook. The candy-colored Pena Palace sits atop a mountain surrounded by mystical forests, while the Moorish Castle ruins offer spectacular coastal views from their ancient stone battlements—perfect for a magical day trip from the city.
Travel Guides – Here are two comprehensive travel guides to help you plan your trip.
Lonely Planet Lisbon This trusted resource covers everything from the best viewpoints (miradores) and hidden restaurants to practical tips on navigating the city's historic tram system and iconic neighborhoods.
Rick Steves Lisbon Guide Rick's detailed guide offers insider advice on avoiding crowds, finding authentic local experiences, and making the most of Lisbon's museums, markets, and monuments with his signature practical approach.
Learn about more family trips built for adventurers of all ages.
G Adventures is the leader in small group and solo travel for 30 years, they know how to do it right. Check out the Online Deals: Shop Travel Deals
Explore North Carolina's Diverse Wine Trails
North Carolina, the birthplace of America’s first grape, boasts around 250 wineries and vineyards, offering a diverse array of wine experiences. From overnight stays in picturesque settings to unique encounters with llamas, the state provides an enticing journey for wine enthusiasts. Here are some notable wine trails and vineyards to explore.
Overnight Stays and Scenic Views: For those looking to extend their wine-tasting experience, Banner Elk Winery & Villa in the mountains offers luxurious suites with breathtaking views and Jacuzzi tubs. Another distinctive option is Treehouse Vineyards in Monroe, near Charlotte, where guests can enjoy a treetop stay.
Wine and Barbecue Pairing: The Southern Gateway Wine Trail in Lexington combines the region’s renowned Lexington-style barbecue with wine tasting. Childress Vineyards, established by NASCAR legend Richard Childress, is a highlight, featuring award-winning wines and a comprehensive visitor experience.
Exploring Yadkin Valley: The Yadkin Valley region is a prominent East Coast wine destination, home to over 40 vineyards and wineries. Visitors can plan their trips around the charming towns of Elkin, Pilot Mountain, Dobson, and Mount Airy. During winter, the Yadkin Valley Winter Wine & Beer Passport offers tastings at multiple wineries and breweries, along with local dining discounts.
Swan Creek Wine Trail: A smaller section of Yadkin Valley, the Swan Creek Wine Trail features five close-proximity vineyards. Each winery on this trail has its unique atmosphere and winemaking style, offering varietal wines and blends, such as the strawberry "shortcake" wine at Shadow Springs Vineyard.
Llama Companions in East Bend: Divine Llama Vineyards, located about half an hour northeast of Winston-Salem, is home to the Southeast’s largest llama farm. Visitors can enjoy award-winning wines and interact with llamas, making it a family-friendly destination. On weekends, llama treks are available, offering a unique walking experience over rolling hills.
Coastal Wine Experiences: Near the coast, Duplin Winery in Rose Hill features the largest wine production facility on the East Coast. Known for its popular labels like Carolina Red and Hatteras Red, Duplin offers tastings, tours, and live music, making it a lively destination for wine lovers.
Historic Grandeur and Wine: In Asheville, the Biltmore Estate, America’s largest private home, provides a grand tour experience with its 250 rooms and 8,000 acres of gardens. The Biltmore Winery, the country’s most-visited winery, offers an underground tour of its vast cellar.
Hard Cider Highlights: North Carolina, known for its wine and burgeoning craft beer scene, is also becoming a hub for hard cider. Bold Rock Hard Cider in Mills River, near Asheville, features a taproom and tasting bar, catering to those looking for a refreshing alternative.
Just curious…
What type of wine experience appeals to you the most?
Click to cast your vote- 🍷🍾 Overnight stays with scenic views
- 🍷🍾 Pairing wine with local cuisine (e.g., barbecue)
- 🍷🍾 Exploring multiple wineries in a region
- 🍷🍾 Unique experiences like interacting with animals
- 🍷🍾 Historic and grand estate tours
- 🍷🍾 Tasting new varieties of wine or cider
- 🍷🍾 Not my scene. I am not into wine tasting
- 🍷🍾 Other (Please specify)
Tuesday
Meme of the Day.
Brought to you by Cary's Daily Newsletter.
What’s faster than word of mouth? Cary Spotlight! Keeps you updated on what is going on locally and connects businesses to our vibrant community.
Thank You, Dawn D'Onofrio!
Trust and Local Awareness
Discover how Cary Spotlight Connect, a free podcast, helps local businesses in Cary share their story with an engaged audience. Get your business in Cary Spotlight.
🎁 Adventure starts close to home.
If Cary Spotlight has made you smile, sparked a conversation, or helped you find a new favorite spot, consider a small gift to keep the good going.
📅 Planning your week in Cary?
To save space in your inbox, we’ve moved the full list of events online — now you can plan ahead with access to today’s events and rest of the week! See Upcoming Events
Want more people to know about your event? List your event for free.
Submit it to be added to our Cary Events Calendar.
Note: Events must be submitted at least 5 days in advance. Last-minute submissions will not be considered. We reserve the right to decline any event submission.
The Answer to the Cary Spotlight Hook Trivia Question 👇👇👇
A: A lounge 🦎
Yes, a group of lizards is charmingly called a lounge, a collective noun fitting their habit of relaxing, basking in the sun, and quietly waiting for prey, like a "lounge party" of reptiles chilling together.
🔗 Learn more about Lizards