Plus, learn about the future of La Folie.
 
01.23.2024 6AM-Top banner logo-small.png

SUBSCRIBE | REFER

Today’s Forecast

48° | Rainy | 84% chance of rain
Sunrise 7:49 a.m. | Sunset 5:50 p.m.

 

Picture-perfect Lexington

See the winner of our 2023 Picture of the Year contest

A white barn with green steeples surrounded by gray storm clouds and big green trees.
“Chasing a sunrise storm” | Photo submitted by Sydney C.
Who knew there were so many talented photographers in Lexington? You all submitted 100+ photos for our 2023 Picture of the Year contest and — we must admit — narrowing it down to just six finalists was tough. See the finalists below, and then vote for your favorite.

“Chasing a sunrise storm”

Lexington’s historic Manchester Farm shines in this photo, highlighting how our breathtaking horse farms complement our landscape.

A reflection of the Big Blue Building + Lexington Marriott in the windows of City Center windows

We’re reflecting on how great our city is. | Photo by Geoffrey B.

“Big Blue Reflections”

This to us is one of those points of view that makes you pause + reflect. We love seeing this unique take on notable downtown spots.

“Pumpkinmania at Transylvania”

Despite being a still, the glow of the jack o’ lanterns come to life in this photo of Pumpkinmania — one of our favorite traditions in Lexington.

“On my way to the races”

We have a thing for fall foliage, and seeing the bright orange and reds that appear at Keeneland’s iconic entrance is always a sight for sore eyes.

A woman standing the opening of Green Lantern Bar surrounded by a dragon carving and red and green lights.

“Late night Green Lantern Bar” | Photo submitted by ML

“Late night Green Lantern Bar”

We love our dive bars and how this moody, yet mystical photo encapsulates the cozy feeling you get the moment you walk into Green Lantern Bar.

“Catalpa Rd at Golden Hour”

The golden tunnel is one of our favorite fall happenings, but the way Sydney captured it with the sun peeking through is jaw-dropping.

Voting closes Sunday, Jan. 28 — so be sure to vote for the photo you think should be crowned the winner of the inaugural LEXtoday Picture of the Year contest. Pssst — don’t forget that the winner will receive a $25 gift card to use at our online marketplace, Six & Main.
See the other 3 finalists
Asked

Who should win LEXtoday’s 2023 Picture of the Year?


A. Chasing a sunrise storm
B. Big Blue Reflections
C. Pumpkinmania at Transylvania
D. On my way to the races
E. Late night
F. Catalpa Rd. at Golden Hour
Choose your favorite
 
Events
Tuesday, Jan. 23
  • Carve + Print Workshop | Tuesday, Jan. 23 | 6-7:30 p.m. | Studio Mel, 309 N. Ashland Ave., Lexington | $85 | This two-part series will teach you carving techniques to design your own stamp.
  • Raclette Dinner with Queen Brie | Tuesday, Jan. 23 | 6-8 p.m. | Wise Bird Cider, 1170 Manchester St., Ste. 140, Lexington | $59.47 | Indulge in the ooey gooey goodness of melted raclette cheese paired with delectable accompaniments — cider pairing available for purchase.
Wednesday, Jan. 24
  • 2024 Vision Boards Night | Wednesday, Jan. 24 | 6:30 p.m. | Franzetti Photography, 154 Constitution St., Lexington | Free | Amanda Woods Hall of The Flourish U leads as you create your own vision board to represent your 2024 goals.
Thursday, Jan. 25
  • The Art & Science of Mixology | Thursday, Jan. 25 | 5:30-8 p.m. | The Living Arts & Science Center, 362 N. Martin Luther King Blvd., Lexington | $50-$65 | Discover the science behind distilling spirits at this fundraiser — tickets include two drinks, hors d’oeuvres, and a mixology class.
  • Candle Pour Bar | Thursday, Jan. 25 | 4-6:30 p.m. | Wick + Mortar Studio / Poppy & Pomelo, 526 E. High St., Lexington | $38-$50 | Sip on spirits while you choose from 50+ scents to create your own candle.
Friday, Jan. 26
  • Swing Shift Dance Fest | Friday, Jan. 26 | 8-11 p.m. | Artworks at the Carver School, 522 Patterson St., Lexington | $12-$20 | Do-si-do your way through this beginner-friendly folk + swing shift dance party with music by Meadowhawk and caller Charley Harvey.
Events calendar here
Click here to have your event featured.
 
City Guide

Play

Kid-friendly activities around Lexington

2 girls play with a giant light screen
Let your child’s imagination run wild. | Photo provided by VisitLEX
We’re not kiddin’ around. From major attractions to hidden gems, children of all ages can find something fun to do indoors in Lexington. You’ll have no trouble entertaining the youngsters with these fun indoor activities, recommended by VisitLEX, around the 859.
  • LEF Climbing | This full-service climbing + fitness gym boasts 20,000+ sqft of climbing. Kids can boulder, climb on auto belays, or top rope with a parent or a person 14 or older belaying.
  • Lexington Public Library | Children who prefer the quiet can enjoy coming into one of Lexington’s six library branches.
  • The Explorium | If your child is curious and imaginative, this museum is the perfect spot for them. Kids can explore careers by pretending to be a doctor, newscaster + more.
  • Joseph-Beth Booksellers | This is where bookworms are born. Help your child pick out their favorite book in the immersive children’s section.
  • ARTplay Children’s Studio | Let your kids explore their creative side in an art class.
  • Lexington Children’s Theatre | With various classes and camps, the theatre provides children with a unique opportunity to work on their acting chops.
  • CREATE studio | Children 4+ can create sculptures, paint a canvas, and more at one of many classes and camps throughout the week. Or, drop in for an afternoon of crafting with no reservation needed.
Need more ideas? Explore other kid-friendly options below.
Family fun this way
News Notes
Eat
  • Carlo Vaccarezza, owner of La Folie at The Woodlands, said the French restaurant will switch gears when it reopens in mid-February. The spot, now coined Shun Lee, will feature Chinese eats like dumplings, General Tso’s chicken, and Moo Shu pork. (Lexington Herald-Leader)
Try This
  • Rolling Oven wants you to create its next pizza. All you have to do is comment your ideas for toppings, sauce base, and a name on Facebook or Instagram for a chance to have your creation featured for one full week — easy as pie, right? Submissions are due Sunday, Feb. 11.
Number
  • 50. That’s the current winning streak held by Transylvania women’s basketball — the longest active streak held by any NCAA division program. The Division III reigning national champions will try to keep the streak alive at Mount Saint Joseph tomorrow, Jan. 24. Let’s go Pios.
Sports
  • The PGA Tour event formerly known as the Barbasol Championship will return to Keene Trace Golf Club Monday, July 8-Sunday, July 14. After Barbasol chose not to renew its sponsorship after the 2023 iteration, the tournament will now be called The Kentucky Championship. Tickets and more details are forthcoming. (LEX18)
Award
Transportation
  • If you’ve got questions about traffic congestion + big road construction projects, then join the online Transportation Policy Committee meeting tomorrow, Jan. 24 at 1:30 p.m. Review the meeting packet so you can be prepared to share thoughts during the public comment period.
 
Read

In the kitchen with Crystal Wilkinson

Crystal Wilkinson kicks off nationwide book tour tonight at Joseph-Beth Booksellers

Crystal Wilkinson's hands holding her book "Praisesong of the Kitchen Ghosts"
Crystal kicks off her 17-stop book tour tonight at Joseph-Beth Booksellers. | Photo courtesy of Crystal Wilkinson
Local award-winning author Crystal Wilkinson will kick off the nationwide book tour for her latest work with a discussion + signing at Joseph-Beth Booksellers tonight at 7 p.m.

“Praisesong for the Kitchen Ghosts: Stories and Recipes from Five Generations of Black Country Cooks” honors the heritage of Black Appalachian kitchens through Wilkinson’s own family. Readers will be treated to 30+ family recipes including: caramel cake, green beans with new potatoes, hot milk cake + chicken and dumplings.

“I’m really excited to begin this national tour here at home,” said Wilkinson. “What better way to celebrate such a personal book than to begin here in Lexington? I’m looking forward to seeing readers, family, and friends.”

Be sure to check out all of the upcoming tour dates + share with your out-of-town friends.
The Buy

The Buy 1.23.23 (Affiliate + Six & Main)

These butterluxe high-waisted leggings. Considered a Lululemon alternative by reviewers, they’re made of buttery soft fabric and feature gentle compression.
Share LEXtoday
 
ReferralGIF1-LEX.gif

Share the good news. Get rewarded.

Have someone who needs to stay in the know? Get amazing rewards for every new subscriber you bring by sharing your unique referral link (below).

{{profile.vars.rh_reflink_16}}

Facebook Twitter Linkedin Email

{{profile.vars.rh_totref_16}} friends are looped into all things local because of you.

Claim your rewards
 
 
The Wrap
 
Molly Thompson in a black shirt

Today’s edition by:
Molly

From the editor
If you’re looking to get crafty, while practicing sustainability, check out this packed lineup of events from the LEX Center for Creative Reuse. The paper bead making session is giving me major nostalgic vibes from my childhood.
Missed our previous newsletter?    
Send Us A Scoop, Question, or Feedback    
Become a Member    
Advertise    
Shop    
 
 

Content marked with an * is paid advertising. Content marked with an ^ is created by our content studio. The company may also generate commission from affiliate links in the newsletter.

Change your preferences or unsubscribe here.

Copyright © 2023 6AM City Inc, All rights reserved.

P.O. Box 2505, Greenville, SC 29602

ADVERTISE | CAREERS | ETHICS | PRIVACY | THE BUY