See the winner of our 2023 Picture of the Year contest
“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.
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.
“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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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
Downtown Lexington Partnership is accepting nominations for its Annual Meeting & Awards of Excellence, which honors the accomplishments of downtown’s businesses. Some of the categories include: Landscape and Streetscape, Urban Innovation, and Outstanding Individual. Submit your nomination via email by Wednesday, Jan. 31.
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 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.
“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.
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.
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