🎄 Upcoming Holiday Events in Lexington - Time to Get our Jingle On!
1. Triangle Park – Downtown Lexington Tree Lighting
When: Sunday, November 30 2025, 3:00 pm – 7:00 pm.
- What: Annual Holiday Lighting Festival. Community choirs, ice-rink at Triangle Park opens at 1pm, tree lighting at 6pm with Santa arrival and carols.
- Why go: Great kickoff event for the season — outdoor, festive & free (vendor shopping too).
- Tip: Arrive early for parking downtown; dress warmly since it’s outdoors.
2. Southland Drive Fire Station #12 Tree Lighting
- When: Friday, December 5 2025 – Festivities start at 5:30 pm, tree lighting at 6:30 pm.
- What: Neighborhood-style tree lighting with chorus from Lafayette, sweet treats, hot drinks, and a toy-drive donation opportunity.
- Why go: Smaller, local feel — ideal for families who prefer less hustle than downtown.
- Tip: Bring a toy or donation if you wish to contribute; locate a good spot along Southland Drive early.
3. Ashland, the Henry Clay Estate (120 Sycamore Rd.) “Illumination at Ashland”
- When: Saturday, December 6 2025, 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm (tree illuminated at dusk around ~5:30pm)
- What: Tree lighting at the historic estate, Santa will be present for photos (children & pets welcome), seasonal refreshments, local vendor “Christmas Shop” at the Keeper’s Cottage.
- Why go: Combines holiday tradition, history, and photo ops with Santa in a lovely historic setting.
- Tip: Bring pet carrier/leash if bringing pets; possibly purchase candlelight tour tickets for afterwards (ticketed).
4. Downtown Lexington Holiday Parade
- When: Saturday, December 6 2025 at 11:00 am.
- What: Parade down Main Street (starting at Midland Avenue, ending at Mill Street) featuring floats, bands, Santa himself.
- Why go: Classic holiday parade event — perfect for kids, festive energy, photo backgrounds.
- Tip: Grab a spot along Main Street early for the best view; bring a tram or stroller for younger children.
5. Fayette Mall — Santa Photo Sessions & Pet Photos
- When: Thursday, November 7 through Wednesday, December 24, 2025. Santa’s hours: Mon–Thu 11 am–7 pm; Fri–Sat 11 am–8 pm; Sun 12 pm–6 pm.
- What: Santa at the mall, special “Pet Photos with Santa” Mondays: Nov 10, 17, 24 and Dec 1, 8, 15. Also “Black Santa” photo days: Dec 11–15.
- Why go: Convenient indoor option for Santa photos; pet-friendly and varied photo themes.
- Tip: Reserve ahead if needed; for fewer crowds go early weekday afternoons.
6. Magical Brunch with Santa at The Rackhouse Tavern (1375 S Broadway)
- When: Sunday, December 7 2025, 10:00 am – 2:00 pm.
- What: Holiday brunch experience with live music, hot cocoa bar, sugar-cookie decorating, keepsake photo with Santa. Tickets $12-$38.
- Why go: Festive indoor meal + photo combo — good for families wanting less crowds and more comfort.
- Tip: Book ahead; arrive on time to catch all activities; good for younger kids needing a calm environment.
7. Southern Lights at Kentucky Horse Park (3785 Campground Rd)
- When: Daily from Friday, November 28 through Wednesday, December 31, 2025 (closed Christmas Day). 5:30 pm-10:00 pm.
- What: Three-mile driving light tour then visit Holiday Village featuring Santa photos, Animal Land (baby camels, alpacas, goats), mini-train rides.
- Why go: A major holiday attraction — perfect for families who want lights + Santa + other fun in one stop.
- Tip: Pre-purchase tickets (online to avoid wait); later evenings on popular nights may be crowded — earlier in the evening is better.
8. Cabela’s Lexington “Santa’s Wonderland”
- When: From Saturday, November 2 through Wednesday, December 24, 2025 (see website for specific hours). Admission free; dog-friendly.
- What: Free photo with Santa (4×6 photo included), reservations recommended; event welcomes pets (leash/carrier).
- Why go: Excellent option for pet owners or families wanting a relaxed Santa photo experience.
- Tip: Reserve time slot ahead; bring pets (if applicable) and make sure they’re comfortable with being in a photo setup.
