Light Up Your Holidays in Lexington

When you think of Lexington you most likely picture rolling pastures, horses, and exciting derbies, it is after all, the "horse capital" of the world. While Kentuckians relish in this claim to fame for Lexington, in late-November this equestrian city takes on a different appeal. Lexington dons its holiday hat and the city lights up!

People flock to the bright festivities from all over for good reason. Thousands of twinkling displays and unique activities dazzle visitors and residents alike.

The official beginning the Lexington season of illumination launches with the Lexington Christmas Tree Lighting. Thousands of people gather at Triangle Park for this tradition that dates back to 1913 to enjoy the festive atmosphere, towering Christmas tree, shimmering lights, free cocoa, and live entertainment.

And if that event doesn't completely trim one's holiday fun tree, preceding the Lexington Christmas Tree Lighting is another favorite: Holiday Live in downtown Lexington. This free event with children's activities, refreshments, entertainment, and shopping specials has something to please everyone. There are even carriage rides on which to view the dazzling downtown light displays.

In 2006 Lexington will host its Christmas tree lighting on November 24 at 5:45 p.m. The Holiday Live event will be held throughout the downtown area from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, call (859) 258-3100.

Continuing the dazzle parade of Lexington lights is the annual Southern Lights at the Kentucky Horse Park, featuring animated and distinctively local displays. Children and adults will both be in awe of this spectacular exhibit. The three mile route shines with familiar Christmas characters such as Santa and his reindeer, along with the unexpected, such as shimmering race horses cheered on by Kentucky crowds. It is a true holiday delight to take time out for the dazzling drive.

This holiday favorite runs nightly from November 17 through December 31. Open from 5:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. admission is $15 per car, $30 per extended van, $50 for mini-buses, and $75 per school bus. For more information, call (859) 255-5727 or visit the Kentucky Horse Park website at http://www.kyhorsepark.com/

If you are looking for a little more local flavor, be sure to include the Holiday Candlelight Tours at the Henry Clay Estate on your agenda. Enjoy a night with 19th century appeal as you listen to live music on self-guided tours through the exquisite mansion and twenty acre estate. A stroll through the grounds also offers romantic holiday appeal. Follow your visit up with hot cider and treats in the Keeper's Cottage next to the home. This vibrant affair will definitely tickle your nostalgic holiday spirit!

The Holiday Candlelight Tours will be held on December 10 and 17 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Admission is $10 per adult and $5 for children ages 6 to 10, group rates are also available. For more information, call (859) 266-8581 or visit the Henry Clay Estate website at http://www.henryclay.org/

Historical light lovers will also take pleasure in the Christmas Candlelight Tours at the Waveland State Historic Site. Antebellum decorations glow throughout the beautifully preserved Greek Revival home and bluegrass plantation transporting you back to the 1850's. In addition to the candle lanterns illuminating the way, visitors will also enjoy lively conversation with tour guides wearing period costumes, and the cheerful voices of Christmas carolers bringing you back to a Christmas of old. There's also a feast of finger food and seasonal drinks to be enjoyed at the main dining table, and a wonder of other sights to be seen.

Christmas Candlelight Tours will be held December 9 and 10 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Admission is $7 per adult, $6 for seniors, and $4 for students of any age. For more information, call (859) 272-3611 or visit the Waveland State Historic Site website at http://parks.ky.gov/statehistoricsites/wv/

After experiencing the light attractions Lexington has to offer, a drive through the city and countryside will provide additional enchantment. Neighborhood after neighborhood twinkles with an eclectic variety of decorations, including those done up in traditional "blue" by University of Kentucky fans.

As you weave through the neighboring areas indulging in the wealth of Christmas lights, be sure to take time out for other Lexington traditions. Grab some bourbon balls to tempt your taste buds, a horse hair brush to tame your mane, and a bottle of wine from one of the many local vineyards to bring home with you… and enjoy the miles and miles of horse farms that await you on your holiday light drive!