Cave Run Lake is a stargazers paradise. | Photo courtesy of @concrete_to_canopy
We’re seeing stars. Between this year’s total solar eclipse, four supermoons, and a host of other happenings in the night sky, 2024 will be a great year for stargazing. Here’s what, how, and where to watch.
What’s on the horizon
Total solar eclipse
An eclipse is any event where an astronomical body gets obscured, either by a shadow or by another body.
This year will see a total solar eclipse cross the US on Monday, April 8, as the moon completely blocks out the sun. It will be visible in Texas, Missouri, Kentucky, Indiana, and Ohio, to name a few states in its path.
If you’re anywhere near the path of totality, it’s worth the drive: total solar eclipses only occur at the same spot once every 375 years. (Kentucky’s most recent totality was in 2017 — and it won’t see another until 2044 following next month’s eclipse).
Totality will last only four minutes. Exact start times vary by state, but will range from 1:40 p.m. in Fort Worth, TX to 3:18 p.m. in Buffalo, NY (local time). Around those times — and in cities outside of the path of totality — a partial eclipse will be visible.
To safely view the whole eclipse, invest in a pair of solar viewers. These will help you safely watch the partial eclipse, though during totality it’s safe to catch the spectacle with the naked eye.
How to watch
Light pollution in urban centers means that a clear night sky is hard to come by. Luckily, you have two options:
Find your nearest DarkSite by using a light pollution map. If you’re using a resource that lists Bortle values, you’ll want to find a place tracking five or lower in order to track meteor showers.
If you’re eager to rise and shine to see the historical event yourself, consider taking a trip out west to Paducah, where you can experience the total eclipse on April 8 beginning 1:58 CDT (2:58 EST).
Through the Lens: From Sublime to Subtle | Friday, March 22-Saturday, May 4 | 11 a.m.-8 p.m. | Pam Miller Downtown Arts Center, 141 E. Main St., Lexington | Free | Take in this photography exhibit that explores both the ordinary and extravagant aspects of life.
Ladies’ Night | Friday, March 22 | 5-7 p.m. | Kenwick Community Center, 313 Owsley Ave., Lexington | Free | Put on your pinkest wardrobe for a screening of “Barbie” and an evening of mingling.
Saturday, March 23
Spring Brunch and Baking Class | Saturday, March 23 | 12-2:30 p.m. | The Market Kitchen, 101 W. Loudon Ave., Ste. 140, Lexington | $49.87 | Join Natalia Tejera from Natalia’s Pastry Shop to learn the art of making scones while snacking on appetizers and sipping spirits.
The Hair Band Experience | Saturday, March 23 | 7:30 p.m. | Lyric Theatre and Cultural Arts Center, 300 E. 3rd St., Lexington | $33-$73 | Pile on the Aqua Net and get ready to headbang along to hairband favorites like Bon Jovi, Def Leppard, and Poison.
Sunday, March 24
Easter Tea Party | Sunday, March 24 | 1-4 p.m. | Hamburg Pavilion, 2313 Sir Barton Way, Lexington | Free | Let the kids get curiouser and curiouser at a tea party featuring Alice and the White Rabbit, complimentary cookies, and photo opportunities.
Hotel California | Sunday, March 24 | 8 p.m. | Manchester Music Hall, 899 Manchester St., Lexington | $15-$40 | Get that peaceful easy feeling while listening to this Eagles tribute band.
Cafe Emporio by Busalacchi, the deli and market on North Limestone, is closing its doors after two years in operation. Stop by for artisanal sandwiches, salads, and ingredients before its last day tomorrow.
Sports
The UK men’s basketball team lost against No. 14 Oakland and were knocked out of the NCAA tournament. Keep up with the tournament and scores on the NCAA website. (Lexington Herald-Leader)
Biz
Changes are coming to a Winchester Road staple. Nipaporn “Kukie” Ruadrew, owner of Jasmine Rice Thai Restaurant, announced she is selling the restaurant + her last day will be Aug. 31. A former employee is expected to take over, but the name of the restaurant will exit alongside Kukie. (Lexington Herald-Leader)
Outdoors
The city is encouraging the community to do some good for this place we call home. Earth Hour is an international movement that encourages people to spend 60 minutes doing something that supports the planet. Learn more about how the city is protecting the environment.
Civic
CivicLex will host a primary candidate meet + greet at UK’s Cornerstone on Wednesday, April 17 at 6 p.m. Get to know the candidates running for council seats in district 1, 4, and 7 before voter registration closes on April 22.
Plan Ahead
FoodChain’s annual FEAST returns for its sixth year, bringing a full lineup of local + nationally beloved chefs. On Wednesday, May 22, attendees can taste small plates from the 25 featured chefs, plus enjoy an evening of live music from Joslyn and the Sweet Compression, all while supporting FoodChain’s efforts.
Seasonal
Spring is in full swing at Shaker Village. Hop into the fun on Saturday, March 30 for an epic Egg Hunt. The spring activities continue with Family Farm Days, happening April 6, 13, and 20. Visitors will be able to meet baby animals, take wagon rides, and more. Plan a trip to Harrodsburg.*
Finance
If your last credit card bill sent a chill down your spine, it might be time for a balance transfer. For that, The Ascent recommends these four cards with 0% APR for up to 18 months.(You could have almost two years to avoid interest charges on qualifying balance transfers.)*
The goal of the program is to help support those with hidden disabilities. | Photo by @springeradventures25
Not all disabilities can be seen with the naked eye, but they can be stifling nonetheless.
That’s why VisitLEX, along with Central Bank Center, Rupp Arena, the Kentucky Horse Park, and Blue Grass Airport have teamed up to help those with hidden disabilities identify themselves.
The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program provides those with invisible conditions (think: neurodevelopmental or sensory challenges) with sunflower-themed apparel to identify themselves in a non-intrusive way.
Participating organizations are trained to spot and assist those wearing the Hidden Disabilities Sunflowers to make their spaces more inclusive + accessible to all Lexingtonians.
“This effort is part of our new Lex for Good initiative, which promotes accessibility and sustainability in the tourism industry in Lexington,” said Mary Quinn Ramer, president of VisitLEX.
Sunflower accessories, such as lanyards and pins, can be picked up at the Lexington Visitors Center, 215 W. Main St., Ste. 75.
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