Koka Booth Amphitheatre
A picturesque outdoor venue in Cary, NC, renowned for its magical Chinese Lantern Festival and diverse live music concerts.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
NC Chinese Lantern Festival magic
Koka Booth Amphitheatre
Best Time
NC Chinese Lantern Festival magic
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A picturesque outdoor venue in Cary, NC, renowned for its magical Chinese Lantern Festival and diverse live music concerts.
"There is something so magical about sitting under the stars and soaring pines while listening to extraordinary music."
Bathroom Lines
Avoid the small bathrooms under the covered area; head to the main entrance for less crowded facilities. :toilet:
Bring Your Own Seating
Lawn ticket holders can bring their own chairs and blankets for a comfortable experience. :chair:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
NC Chinese Lantern Festival
Throughout the Amphitheatre
Thousands of handcrafted lanterns illuminate the park, creating a magical winter wonderland. Features cultural performances and food.
Live Concerts Under the Stars
Main Stage
Experience renowned artists perform amidst the natural beauty of soaring pines and a serene lake setting.
Asia Fest
Amphitheatre Grounds
A vibrant celebration of Asian culture with dragon boat racing, traditional performances, and diverse food options.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Arrive Early for Smooth Entry
Dress for the Weather, Especially for Festivals
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bathroom Lines
Avoid the small bathrooms under the covered area; head to the main entrance for less crowded facilities. :toilet:
Bring Your Own Seating
Lawn ticket holders can bring their own chairs and blankets for a comfortable experience. :chair:
Reasonably Priced Concessions
Food and drinks are surprisingly affordable for an event space, with options like wine, dumplings, and onion rings. :fries:
Twilight Tickets
Consider twilight tickets for fewer crowds and a beautiful sunset experience at the lantern festival. :city_sunset:
Tips
from all over the internet
Bathroom Lines
Avoid the small bathrooms under the covered area; head to the main entrance for less crowded facilities. :toilet:
Bring Your Own Seating
Lawn ticket holders can bring their own chairs and blankets for a comfortable experience. :chair:
Reasonably Priced Concessions
Food and drinks are surprisingly affordable for an event space, with options like wine, dumplings, and onion rings. :fries:
Twilight Tickets
Consider twilight tickets for fewer crowds and a beautiful sunset experience at the lantern festival. :city_sunset:
Kid & Dog Friendly
Some events, like jazz nights, are family-friendly and welcome children and pets. Always check event details. :dog2:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Koka Booth Amphitheatre is a beloved venue, especially praised for its magical atmosphere during the Chinese Lantern Festival and its beautiful natural setting for concerts. Visitors appreciate the reasonable concession prices and the option to bring their own seating for lawn shows. However, long entry lines and cold weather during winter festivals are common drawbacks.
"Our second and third show here we showed up much earlier so the trees weren’t in our view as pictured. Getting to be in the pines was magic (and smelled amazing.) Loved being able to bring our own chairs to the lawn! Small purses allowed. Curious turtles in the pond by the smoking section. Shuttles to the gate from the back of the parking lot were readily available! The last star isn’t there because of how incredibly long it took the line to move to get inside… definitely the kind of place you want to show up to with plenty of time."
Cosmic
"Koka Booth Ampitheatre is my absolute favorite concert venue in the Triangle. There is something so magical about sitting under the stars and soaring pines while listening to the extraordinary music of some of the most talented artists in the world! I highly recommend Koka Booth to any music lover!"
Angel Hair Wig Gallery Raleigh, NC
"Great venue! We visited for the Chinese Lantern Festival and really enjoyed the show. Plenty of parking available, very friendly staff checking in/scanning tickets and running security. After entering, we purchased some food and drinks- all actually reasonably priced for an event space. I got a canned bubbly wine for $10 and we also got some onion rings and apple pie dumplings. Nice to be able to fill up without spending an arm and a leg. The light displays and live performances were great too, very entertaining. I would definitely recommend the lantern festival and I'd come here for a concert too!"
Dee Bee
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Koka Booth Amphitheatre is located in Cary, North Carolina. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available. For larger events like the Chinese Lantern Festival, shuttles are often provided from designated parking areas to the main entrance.
Yes, there is parking available at Koka Booth Amphitheatre. For major events, free parking is often provided, though premium parking closer to the entrance may be available for a fee. Staff are usually on hand to direct traffic.
During popular events like the Chinese Lantern Festival, shuttles are frequently available from the back of the parking lot to the gate, helping to manage crowds and provide convenient access.
Yes, drop-off is generally permitted. This can be a good option to avoid parking hassles, especially during peak event times. Check specific event guidelines for designated drop-off zones.
From Raleigh, you can typically take I-40 West towards Cary. Take exit 293 for I-440 West towards US-1 N/US-64 W/Raleigh. Continue on I-440 W and take exit 1B to merge onto US-1 S/US-64 W toward Cary. Follow signs for Regency Park and Koka Booth Amphitheatre.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets for concerts and events at Koka Booth Amphitheatre can usually be purchased through the official venue website, authorized ticket vendors, or at the box office on event days. For the Chinese Lantern Festival, it's recommended to buy tickets in advance as they can sell out quickly.
Ticket prices for the Chinese Lantern Festival can vary, with options like general admission and twilight tickets. It's best to check the official festival website for the most current pricing and to purchase tickets in advance, as they are known to sell out.
Generally, small purses are allowed at Koka Booth Amphitheatre. Larger bags or backpacks may not be permitted, especially for concerts. Always check the specific event's policy beforehand to avoid any issues at entry.
For concerts, you can typically bring your own chairs and blankets for lawn seating, and sometimes small snacks are allowed. However, for festivals like the Chinese Lantern Festival, it's usually best to purchase food and beverages from the onsite vendors, which are noted to be reasonably priced.
Yes, the Chinese Lantern Festival often offers different ticket types, including general admission and 'Twilight Tickets.' Twilight tickets are recommended for fewer crowds and a magical sunset experience.
🎫 ✨ Onsite Experience
Koka Booth Amphitheatre hosts a variety of events, including major concerts featuring popular artists, the annual NC Chinese Lantern Festival, Asia Fest, wine and whiskey festivals, and movie screenings. 
The atmosphere is often described as magical, especially during the lantern festival or concerts held under the stars. The setting among soaring pines and by a lake provides a picturesque and serene backdrop for events.
Yes, restrooms are available. However, it's noted that the bathrooms directly under the covered area can have long lines. It's recommended to use the facilities near the main entrance for quicker service.
Concessions and food trucks are usually available, offering a range of items from traditional festival fare like egg rolls and wonton soup to more substantial meals. Prices are generally considered reasonable for an event venue.
Absolutely! The Chinese Lantern Festival is a huge hit with families, offering dazzling displays and entertainment. Some concerts and events are also family and dog-friendly, so always check the event details. +1
📸 📸 Photography
The NC Chinese Lantern Festival offers incredible photo opportunities with its illuminated displays and intricate lantern designs. Concerts under the stars also provide a beautiful backdrop. +2
Yes, photography is highly encouraged at the Chinese Lantern Festival. The vibrant lights and unique lantern creations make for stunning shots. Remember to be mindful of other visitors while capturing your memories. +1
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, professional photography or videography may require special permits. Always check the venue's policy or specific event rules regarding media capture.
The best time for photos is typically after sunset when the lanterns are fully illuminated. However, visiting during twilight allows you to capture both the fading daylight and the glowing lanterns, offering a unique dual perspective.
Look for the themed areas within the lantern festival, such as the dinosaur exhibit, and capture the reflections of the lights on the nearby pond. The natural setting with the pines also adds a beautiful element to any photo.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Practical tips for families include arriving early to avoid meltdowns in long lines and dressing warmly for winter events. The availability of reasonably priced concessions means you can easily grab snacks and drinks to keep everyone happy.
🎶 Music Lovers
Bring your own chairs or blankets for lawn seating to maximize comfort during longer sets. The diverse schedule means there's usually something for every musical taste throughout the year, from rock and folk to classical performances.
Check the schedule regularly for upcoming concerts and secure your tickets early, as popular acts often sell out. 📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Beyond the festival, concerts under the stars provide a unique photographic challenge and reward. The natural backdrop of the pines and the stage lighting create dramatic scenes. Remember to check the venue's policy on professional photography equipment, but personal cameras and phone photography are generally welcome.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of the NC Chinese Lantern Festival
Beyond the stunning visual displays, the festival offers a rich cultural experience. Nightly performances often include traditional Chinese music, dance, and martial arts, adding a dynamic layer to the visit. Food vendors provide a taste of Asian cuisine, with popular items like wonton soup, egg rolls, and dumplings.
Pro-tip: Dress warmly, as winter evenings can be quite cold. Bringing gloves, scarves, and hats is highly recommended. While parking is often free, consider arriving early or opting for premium parking if available to maximize your time enjoying the luminous artistry.
Concerts and Live Performances
The amphitheatre hosts a diverse range of musical genres, from rock and country to jazz and classical music. Artists like Maren Morris, Billy Strings, and the NC Symphony have graced its stage, drawing enthusiastic crowds. The venue offers various seating options, including reserved seating and general admission lawn tickets, allowing visitors to choose their preferred concert experience.
+1For those with lawn tickets, bringing your own chairs or blankets is encouraged, making for a comfortable and relaxed evening. The acoustics are generally praised, and the visual appeal of the stage set against the natural backdrop enhances the overall enjoyment of the performance.
Navigating the Venue and Amenities
Accessibility is also a consideration, with staff present to direct parking and assist attendees. For those with lawn tickets, bringing personal seating like chairs or blankets is a common practice and enhances comfort.
When attending popular events like the Chinese Lantern Festival, arriving early is a key strategy. This not only helps in securing good viewing spots but also allows ample time to navigate security, find restrooms, and perhaps grab a bite before the main attractions begin.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit