The holiday season is filled with cheer, but it can also create extra waste — from gift wrap to Christmas trees and cardboard.
This year, you can make a difference by properly recycling and disposing of holiday waste. Here’s what you need to know:
Lights and electronics go to E-waste, not in blue
Do you have broken string lights or old power strips? Don’t toss them in the trash.
Special collection bins for broken holiday lights, extension cords, power strips, and other electronics are available at 5+ locations throughout Lexington until Sunday, Jan. 18, 2026.
Psst... You can always recycle electronics at the Electronics Recycling Center.
Compost natural Christmas trees
Instead of sending your natural tree to the landfill, place it at the curb on your regular collection days for pickup. Bonus: The city will compost your tree.
Pick-up dates will be announced soon — follow this website for updates.
Wrapping paper goes in green
While some wrapping paper is recyclable, most is not.
Gift bags, padded envelopes, ribbons, bows, and sticker sheets should go in your green trash cart to avoid contaminating other recyclables.
Cardboard goes in blue
Flattened shipping boxes, gift boxes, wrapping paper tubes, and other types of cardboard are all recyclable. Be sure to toss them in your blue recycling cart.
Pro tip: Check out the full list of recyclable items.
Natural waste goes in gray
Wreaths, poinsettias, garlands, holly, and other natural decor belong in your gray yard waste cart.
Want to be extra eco-friendly this holiday season? Here are a few more tips:
- Shop with reusable bags
- Reuse gift bags or boxes
- Wrap gifts in old newspapers or catalogs
- Gift experiences instead of physical items (who doesn’t love an activity-based gift?)
With a little effort, we can all help keep our city beautiful.
