Eight Great Christmas Attractions for Children in Lexington, Kentucky

Holiday Live. Head to downtown Lexington on November 24 for this lively event. Downtown vendors provide holiday music, storybook characters, refreshments, and activities children of all ages will enjoy. This activity is a wonderful way to begin the Christmas season with a little bit of something for everyone in your family. The fun begins at 3 p.m. and ends at 5 p.m. Be sure to arrive early for the best parking options. Admission is free. Call (859) 231-7335 for details.

Lexington Christmas Tree Lighting. Following the entertainment of Holiday Live on November 24 is the Lexington Christmas Tree Lighting. This traditional event began in 1913 and still warms the spirits of Lexington gatherers today. Partake in the "oohs" and "ahhs" when the enormous tree is lit, while indulging your palate with free hot cocoa and coffee. There's no better way to get into a festive mood. Locales and visitors will enjoy this spectacular event held at 5:45 p.m. in Triangle Park (downtown Lexington.) Admission is free. Call (859) 231-7335 for details.

Southern Lights. Beginning November 17, The Kentucky Horse Park charms the city with its unique and dazzling light display. Horses leaping over fences and racing along their glowing tracks are a regional favorite, along with the traditional Christmas fare including Santa and all his reindeers. Let the bright snowflakes guide your way as you drive through this sparkling delight.

There are also indoor exhibits including a petting zoo complete with live reindeer, choirs, and even an opportunity to visit with Santa through December 23. Hours of operation are 5:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. November 17 to December 31. Admission is $15 per car, $30 per extended van, $50 per mini-bus, $75 per school bus, and $125 per motor-coach. Visit the Kentucky Horse Park website for more information http://www.kyhorsepark.com/

Lexington Christmas Parade. This celebrated event is truly for the young at heart. Miles of holiday-themed floats, cars, local bands, and horses offer a memorable experience. Wave to Santa as he traverses the path between Main and Midland to Main and Mill Street. The Lexington Christmas Parade is held December 2 at 10 a.m. Admission is free. Call (859) 258-3123 for details.

Kentucky Christmas Chorus. What's better than Christmas caroling? How about Christmas caroling with thousands at the Kentucky Christmas Chorus. Accompanying the crowd at the Rupp Arena will be The Lexington Philharmonic, Lexington Singers, and dozens of local area choirs. The event kicks off at 6 p.m. on December 12. Admission is free. Visit The Lexington Philharmonic website for more details http://www.lexingtonphilharmonic.org/index.php?b=ct_lexphil_on_tour

Holiday Go Round. This multi-faceted market of young talent is a treasure to behold. View the displays and shop this artist market on November 25 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at The Explorium. In addition, there are drop-in workshops for children and the entire museum with nine zones to enjoy. Museum hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is $5 per child or adult. Children under 12 months are free. Visit the Explorium website for additional details http://explorium.com/

Season Of Light. A visit to the Hummel Planetarium in Richmond, Kentucky will be well worth the twenty minute trip. Just south of Lexington, the Hummel Planetarium is one of the largest in the United States. November 24 kicks off the Planetarium's Season of Light show- a dazzling exploration of the winter sky. Monday through Wednesday shows begin at 2 p.m. and Thursday through Saturday shows begin at 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. The event runs through December 23. Admission is $4 per adult, $3.50 for seniors and students, and $3 for ages 12 and under. Visit the Hummel Planetarium website for more information http://www.planetarium.eku.edu/

Santa Claus Special. Cruise through the holiday on Lexington's very own Polar Express. The Bluegrass Scenic Railway presents the Santa Clause Special on December 9, 10, 16, and 17. This magic train debarks from Woodford County Park at 1:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. to offer a scenic holiday tour to cherish. Watch for Santa and his elves while you gaze out at the gorgeous, rolling bluegrass fields. Admission is $8 per adult, $7 for seniors, and $6 for children ages 2-12. Advance registration is required. Call (859) 873-2476 for details.