• Energy-forward designs, including nature walking trails and green buildings
• Retail outlets, restaurants, entertainment complexes, short-term rentals, office space, and a TBD event venue
• Pet parks and grooming stations
• A sky lounge
• Electric vehicle charging stations

• Battle Axes
• Sora Aerial Arts
• Gym Blue Lex
• Good Wood Brewing
• Junk Magicians
• RD1 Spirits

• The Ebony Nutcracker | Friday, Dec. 22 | 7:30 p.m. | Singletary Concert Hall, 405 Rose St., Lexington | $10-$25 | Come see a fresh take on the classic tale you know and love presented by The African American Ballet Troupe.
• Mad Wavy X-Mas | Friday, Dec. 22 | 8 p.m. | The Loudoun House, 209 Castlewood Dr., Lexington | Free | Enjoy a night of live art, music from DJ Miz + a variety of local artists, snacks, and sips — wear your tackiest sweater for a chance to win prizes.

• The Gabe and Kyle Show | Saturday, Dec. 23 | 7:30 p.m. | Break Room at Pepper, 1178 Manchester St., Lexington | Free | These friends and singers are bringing us an evening of acoustic duet numbers.
• Harry Potter & the Sorcerer’s Stone | Saturday, Dec. 23 | 10 a.m. | The Kentucky Theatre, 214 E. Main St., Lexington | Free | Downtown’s historic theater is gifting the community with a trip to the magical world of Hogwart’s.

• Functional Movement | Sunday, Dec. 24 | 10:30-11:30 a.m. | SoulRebeLex, 105 Dennis Dr., Lexington | $10 | Explore the mind-body connection through movement, breath, and meditative inquiry.
• Southern Lights Holiday Festival | Sunday, Dec. 24 | 5:30-10 p.m. | Kentucky Horse Park, 4089 Iron Works Pkwy., Lexington | $35 | Load up the car + bask in the glow of holiday light displays, then visit the Holiday Village for model trains, animal friends, and more.

• The Paddock Bourbon Club is expected to open today at 1011 S. Broadway in the former Instant Signs building. The concept is a liquor store + tasting room specializing in high-end spirits. It will also offer a membership-based club with perks at various levels. (Lexington Herald-Leader)

• After 30+ years, Ruth Ann Palumbo — the longest serving female state representative — announced she will not seek re-election. While no one has officially filed to run for District 76 yet, Palumbo’s son “has filed an intent to spend on a campaign for the seat.” (Lexington Herald-Leader)

• RD1 Spirits plans to open a new $4.8 million bourbon-themed complex at The Commons. The space, expected to be completed in 2025, will host tours + blending experiences and be home to tasting rooms, a cocktail bar, a gift shop, and an event space. (The Lane Report)

• “American Higher Education: Issues and Institutions” (2nd edition), a book written by UK College of Education professor emeritus Dr. John Thelin, was featured on Forbes’ list of best higher education books of 2023. This is Dr. Thelin’s third time making the list since 2019. (UKNOW)

• He’s VR, baby. Jack Harlow has partnered with Meta to produce a virtual reality concert + documentary premiering on Thursday, Jan. 4 at 8 p.m. EST in Meta Horizon Worlds, a free VR platform. The concert will give fans an immersive look into his Rupp Arena concert on Dec. 3. (LOUtoday)

• Well, this is officially our last News Note of 2023. Thank you to our LEXtoday community for staying connected with us this year. If you want to support us in 2024, consider becoming a member — you’ll support us directly and keep these newsletters coming. Until next year, folks.

🥯 Best bites

☕ In-house roasted beans