Lexington’s key to March Madness 2025

From chicken wings to bracket tips, we’ve got everything Lexingtonians need for a winning season this March Madness.

Chet White UK Athletics.webp

Will the Wildcats go all the way? | Photo by Chet White, UK Athletics

Spring is in the air and so are the basketballs. That’s right, March Madness is almost upon us and we’ve got everything you need to celebrate NCAA tournament season in the Horse Capital of the World.

What about the Wildcats

In Lexington, March Madness isn’t just a time of year, it’s a way of life.

UK men’s basketball is currently 20-10 for the season, with a final regular-season game at Missouri this Saturday, March 8 at 12 p.m. Currently ranked No. 19 on the AP Men’s College Basketball Poll, the Wildcats are projected to be a 3 seed.

Basic bracketology

Printing and filling out a bracket is a rite of passage for any Lexingtonian, but if you want to really experience March Madness firsthand, you can head to Rupp Arena as it plays host to the first two rounds of the men’s tournament on Thursday, March 20 + Friday March, 22.

Bites and brews

Lexington’s vibrant food and drink scene makes it the perfect place to fuel up during March Madness. Whether you’re cheering on your favorite team at a local sports bar or hosting a watch party at home, the city’s craft breweries + Southern-inspired eateries will keep your team’s taste buds happy.

Whether you’re carrying out or ordering in, nothing says party like pizza.

Want to watch with other fans? Check out our guide to sports bars for a spot a near you.

Chicken wings are a game day staple, and Lexington does not disappoint.

Where + when to watch

From Selection Sunday to the championship game, March Madness coverage will be streamable and also appear across CBS, TBS, TNT and truTV. Check out the full schedule complete with game venues and start times.

More from LEXtoday
Directly north, east, south, and west of us, cities across the world await.
Bookmark this guide for a curated list of events taking place each month that we’re most looking forward to.
Put your money where your community is and help us create a guide to small businesses by submitting your favorite local spots and sharing this page with a friend.
From breakfast to dinner — we’ve rounded up a day full of kid-friendly activities for the whole family to enjoy.
We took a look at two women who made history at the famous race track.
You don’t have to wait until St. Patrick’s Day to learn about Irish culture in Lexington, just head to Upper Street to shop, sip, and spend time at Irish-owned businesses.
Sponsored
These projects top Zillow’s list for home upgrades that could deliver the strongest return when it’s time to sell.
From brands to artists, Lexington’s business scene is truly inspired.
Crave Taco Week runs Monday, March 9 to Sunday, March 15, where you can try out dozens of tacos from 20+ different restaurants.