RALEIGH -- It's the time of year that young and old alike have been waiting for. From fires and warm cocoa, to shopping and gifts under the tree, holiday traditions are key for many families around the Christmas holiday.

And in the Triangle, the production of A Christmas Carol is also an annual tradition. The long-running play is gracing the stage starting this week, celebrating its 43rd anniversary by telling the classic tale of Ebeneezer Scrooge's journey to gaining a Christmas spirit. 

For decades, the musical comedy has been attracting thousands of families from near and far, and this year is expected to be no different. Once named a "top 20 event in the Southeast," Scrooge and Tiny Tim are gracing the stage in Raleigh and Durham for another popular run.

Our Caroline Blair sat down with the mastermind behind the performance, Ira David Wood III, for a look at why families keep coming back year after year.  

If you would like to come see A Christmas Carol, it's taking place at Raleigh's Memorial Auditorium Dec. 6 -9 at 7 p.m. and Dec. 9 and 10 at 2 p.m.

Then they'll hit the road to Durham, and perform at the DPAC at 7 p.m. Dec. 14 -16 and 2 p.m. Dec. 16 and 17.

Tickets range from $32- $92.

For more information visit Theatre in the Park's website.