Did You Know That Garner, N.C. Is Just 12 Minutes From Downtown Raleigh?

Just a stone’s throw from the heart of the bustling state capital, Garner has retained its small-town charm while boasting an exceptional quality of life thanks to hundreds of acres of award-winning parkland, an abundance of recreational and cultural arts opportunities and a broad array of shopping and dining options. Garner offers easy access to one of the nation’s premier cities. Town residents know that they are closer to downtown Raleigh (a mere 10 minutes!) than many City of Raleigh residents–but not so close as to erode the hometown feel that makes Garner special.

Superb arts, entertainment and recreational amenities are available without even leaving town limits. You can go to Garner Performing Arts Center (GPAC), located at 742 W. Garner Rd. in the downtown historic district, and catch a production by the Towne Players of Garner (named “Best Community Theater in the Triangle”) or a concert by a world-renowned performer making a special appearance as part of the acclaimed Broadway Voices series. If you attend the community’s annual Showcase of Talent in Feb., you may see a budding star. “American Idol” winner and popular country music artist Scotty McCreery honed his talents at the GPAC special event, as did Miss North Carolina 2012 Arlie Honeycutt.

The Town of Garner’s Parks, Recreation and Cultural Resources Department (garnernc.gov) has a full slate of special events throughout the year. On Groundhog Day, White Deer Park hosts an event featuring a furry prognosticator named Mortimer. In the spring, the department puts on the Spring Eggstravaganza festival featuring the town’s annual egg hunt at Lake Benson Park. In early Dec., Garner’s downtown is transformed into a holiday wonderland during the annual Light Up Main festival (featuring the annual tree lighting ceremony) and the Garner Christmas Parade. Garner has also become a regional shopping mecca.

(Source:visitraleigh.com)