Nothing beats a bag of popcorn, your favorite flick, and some A/C on a hot summer day. | Photo by @herdlani
It’s graduation season, which means a lot of caps and gowns floating around town for photo ops.
If you haven’t taken graduation photos yet (we get it, we’d rather you procrastinate on this than studying for finals), we’ve rounded up some of the best spots around the city to take photos — no matter where you’re graduating from.
Pro tip: If you’re planning to take photos on business property, be sure to get permission before striking a pose.
Urbanites
The Kentucky Theatre, 214 E. Main St.
If you want a warm, city vibe, look no further than The Kentucky Theatre. Snag a couple of graduation photos under the marquee for that iconic Lexington look.
Lexington Financial Center Parking Garage, 230 W. Main St.
We know this sounds odd, but hear us out. When you climb to the top of this parking garage, you’ll be greeted with sweeping views of the city, making for the perfect backdrop.
Did you know that peonies are considered good luck? | Photo by LEXtoday
Tree huggers
Henry Clay Estate, 120 Sycamore Rd.
History and nature converge at the Henry Clay Estate, where you can walk along the picturesque grounds to view and pose with blooming peonies.
The Arboretum, 500 Alumni Dr.
Stay close to the excitement on campus by snagging graduation photos around The Aborteum. Whether you want floral views or to be immersed in its array of trees, there’s no wonder this is a favorite for many graduates.
Third Street Stuff + Coffee, 257 N. Limestone
Eccentric is an understatement here. When you first approach Third Street, you’ll be welcomed with its colorfully curated mosaic mural on the exterior — perfect for the quirky graduate.
The Dolly Parton Mural, 1099 W. High St.
If you’re a college graduate getting ready for the 9 to 5 lifestyle, get your coat of many colors with the one and only icon.
Events
Wednesday, May 3
Awesome Inc Demo Day | Wednesday, May 3 | 12-1:30 p.m. | Awesome Inc, 348 E. Main St., Lexington | Free | Watch as students from the Web Developer Bootcamp present and showcase their new programming skills to the Lexington tech community.
Thursday, May 4
Bird Walks | Thursday, May 4 | 9-11 a.m. | Raven Run Nature Sanctuary, 3885 Raven Run Way, Lexington | Free | Beginner + experienced nature enthusiasts are invited to explore and learn about birds of the Bluegrass with staff at Raven Run.
May the Fourth Be With You | Thursday, May 4 | 6-7:30 p.m. | Ethereal Brewing at Cornerstone, 401 S. Limestone, Lexington | Free | Join UK music students as they rock out through their final exam while celebrating a galaxy far, far away.
Lewis Black | Thursday, May 4 | 8 p.m. | Lexington Opera House, 401 W. Short St., Lexington | $45-$69.50 | Known for his work on Comedy Central’s “The Daily Show,” watch this nationally-known comedian go on one of his famous rants in his “Off The Rails” tour.
Friday, May 5
Greyline Station May Block Party | Friday, May 5 | 5-9 p.m. | Greyline Station, 101 W. Loudon Ave., Lexington | Free | This month’s block party theme celebrates Mental Health Awareness Month featuring crafts, games, food, and more.
Logan Halstead (Indoor Show) | Friday, May 5 | 8 p.m. | The Burl, 375 Thompson Rd., Lexington | $17-$20 | Start the weekend by listening to the Appalachian-inspired tunes of this West Virginia artist.
A boutique store is coming to The Met. Albert Couture, a high-end luxury clothing brand, offers custom-made suits, dresses, accessories, and more. Stay tuned for more details before it opens in June.
We recently shared that the Kentucky for Kentucky Fun Mall was moving from their home on Bryan Avenue. Don’t fret — they will open up their new location in the Eastland Shopping Center this Friday, May 5 (and yes, Cocaine Bear will be there).
Sports
Two Keeneland champions are betting on a win at Churchill Downs this Saturday. Forte, a horse that won multiple Grade 1 events during the 2022 Keeneland fall meet, is the 3-1 morning line favorite, while Tapit Trice has 5-1 odds. Keeneland has successfully sold 23 Derby winners in years past. (Lexington Herald-Leader)
Job
Commerce Lexington is hiring a new director to join its team. The organization that supports Lexington businesses is seeking someone to take the role of Director of Sponsorship Development, which has responsibilities such as dealing with sponsorship budgets, maintaining relationships with clients, and finding new opportunities.
Lexingtonian
Start spreadin’ the news. Colton Ryan, star of Broadway’s “New York, New York,” has been nominated for Best Leading Actor in a Musical at the Tony’s. Root on the Lexington native when the awards stream on Sunday, June 11 on CBS. (WKYT)
Plan Ahead
No need to plan for the year 3000 — the Jonas Brothers are coming to Lexington this fall. Head to Rupp Arena Thursday, September 26 to hear the brothers play all five of their albums in a single night. Tickets go on sale Friday, May 12.
Finance
The average retirement savings by age may be shocking, but it’s not too late to seek advice. A financial advisor could help increase your returns and alleviate stress. Try this free tool to get matched with up to three vetted financial advisors serving your area.*
Fun Fact
National Beverage Day is this Saturday, May 6. In celebration, we’re featuring some of our Six & Main beverage brands across our markets including Blanchard’s Coffee, a|dash, Sarilla, Matcha Nude, and more. Start sipping now.
Kids
The perfect family-friendly activity does exist, and you can even do it all spring and summer long, rain or shine. We’re talking about Kids Bowl Free — a national program that connects you with local bowling alleys where kids can receive two free games of bowling each day. Learn more + sign up.
Event
🎉 Celebrate Mexican heritage
Cinco de Mayo events around Lexington
Feliz Cinco de Mayo. | Photo by LEXtoday
In just a few short days will be one of the biggest holidays in Mexican culture — Cinco de Mayo.
The holiday honorsMexico’s victory over French forces in the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862. The Second Franco-Mexican War didn’t end that day, but the battle became a symbol of resistance against foreign powers.
If you’re celebrating this Friday, here’s where to eat, drink, and dance in LEX —
5 de Mayo, La Taquiza (both locations) | Free | 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
On Monday, I asked about the best places to go kayaking in and around Lexington — and y’all came through. I’m consistently floored with the amount of knowledge our readers have and are willing to share, so I want to take a moment to recognize you (yeah, you) for educating and engaging with us.
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