We see those fall colors peeking through at Raven Run Nature Sanctuary. | Photo via @bucci_steffen921
Autumn is officially here, and we’re finally starting to see those fall colors.
You’ve probably already spotted some red, yellow, and orange leaves in Lexington, and they’re only going to become more bountiful. According to Smoky Mountain’s fall foliage predictions, leaves in the Fayette County area are starting to lose their chlorophyll — the compound responsible for their green color. This gives us a few weeks when we can see the foliage before it hits the ground.
Here’s an anticipated timeline of when Lexingtonians can expect to see the most colorful foliage:
This week — trees will have partial color, but many green leaves remain
Week of Oct. 21 — more color is anticipated, we’re approaching peak foliage
Week of Oct. 28 — peak foliage, this is the prime time for sightseeing
Week of Nov. 4 — Lexington is past its peak, but other parts of Central Kentucky will still have splashes of color
Week of Nov. 11 — the whole state is past peak foliage
If you want to go leaf peeping, you still have time to plan your trip before the leaves fall. There are many places in the Lexington area that look just a little prettier decorated in fall colors.
The foliage tends to be on full display along the city’s hiking trails, with Raven Run Nature Sanctuary and Red River Gorge being noted for having many colorful options. Parks also make great places to catch the leaves, especially nature parks like McConnell Springs Park.
Looking for a distinctly Lexington leaf peeping experience? The historic Lexington Cemetery has over 200 varieties of trees or explore the Arboretum on UK’s campus. And if you take a walk down Catalpa Road in Chevy Chase, you’re golden. The Gingko trees cover the street with a unique blanket of yellow leaves this time of year.
Benefits of a Native Hedgerow & Plant Sale | Tuesday, Oct. 15 | 6-7:30 p.m. | Wild Birds Unlimited | Free | Ironweed Native Plant Nursery owner Alicia Bosela will lead a seminar on the benefits of hedgerows followed by a sale featuring native plants.
Witch Way to Pinot’s | Tuesday, Oct. 15 | 6:30-8:30 p.m. | Pinot’s Palette Fayette Mall | $35 | Create a creepy masterpiece at this paint class with a variety of drinks available for purchase.
Wednesday, Oct. 16
Fright Night Bingo | Wednesday, Oct. 16 | 5:30-7 p.m. | Kenwick Community Center | Free | Come dressed to impress in the spirit of Halloween for a fun night of bingo, themed-decorations, and snacks.
Burn the Mic | Thursday, Oct. 17 | 6:30-8 p.m. | Carnegie Center For Literacy & Learning | Free | Affrilachian poet JC McPherson hosts this open mic night sponsored by the Kentucky Black Writers Collaborative.
Full Moon Ceremony | Thursday, Oct. 17 | 7-8:30 p.m. | Lore of Lucianus | $33 | Welcome the harvest season and the hunter’s moon — our third supermoon in a row — at this transformative session.
Thursday, Oct. 24
Brain Health Workshop | Thursday, Oct. 24 | 7-8 p.m. | StrongerLife | Free | RSVP to learn about the latest research on Alzheimer’s prevention, practical tips for enhancing memory, and activities to boost brain function at this engaging workshop on brain health + Alzheimer’s.*
Kicking off on Saturday, Dec. 7, this year’s festivities are bigger and brighter than ever, featuring:
Enchanting light displays
Igloo reservations
Live performances by artists including Anne Wilson and Ben Sollee
And more
Pro tip: A highlight of the season is the 7th annual Gingerbread House Competition, now accepting entries. Whether you’re a pastry chef or a first-time builder, your edible masterpiece could win a portion of $10,000+ in prizes.
With categories for all ages and skill levels, this beloved competition brings out the most creative and festive gingerbread designs.
Celebrity judges will be on hand to select the winners, and every entry will be admired by thousands of visitors both in person and online.
Ready to show your gingerbread prowess?Visit the registration page for more information (think: new categories, best practices, and entry criteria).
Moon gazers, get ready. The hunter’s supermoon — the biggest supermoon of the year — will reach its peak at 7:26 a.m. on Thursday, Oct. 17. Supermoons are bigger and brighter than normal, and hunter’s will appear full the night before and after its peak. (Lexington Herald-Leader)
Community
McConnell Springs is asking locals to take the pumpkin pledge and donate a carved pumpkin to display at its half-mile Jack-o-lantern Trail. Pledgers can drop off their creations Saturday, Oct. 19-Thursday, Oct. 24 to help reach the goal of 1,000 pumpkins. Donors will receive a voucher for free entry.
Learn
The Kentucky Geological Survey at UK is hosting its 24th annual open house to celebrate Earth Science Week. The free event on Wednesday, Oct.16 from 6 to 7:30 p.m will feature exhibits and interactive displays, including earthquake simulations + volcano demonstrations.
Number
$2.5 billion. That’s how much the state of Kentucky estimates was wagered in its first year of legal sports betting. The practice became lawful following the passage of House Bill 551 on Sept. 7, 2023.
Edu
UK announced a tail-wagging new series. “The Bill Gatton Foundation Speaker Series: The Human-Animal Bond” will start Monday, Nov. 4 and focus on topics around the unique connection that humans + companion animals share. The speeches are open to students and members of the local community.
Featured
Transylvania University is top of its class when it comes to business and accounting programs. According to Research.com, Transy was named a top school in the US in both subject areas. The publication also noted the local university for having the best psychology program in Kentucky. (The Lane Report)
Travel
Cozy up this fall and winter with dissipated crowds and the best deal of the year (think: up to 40% off) at JW Marriott Nashville. Snag the Music City Snowfall special for discounted rates, two complimentary fireside cocktails + a $25 dining credit — plus everything downtown Nashville has to offer.*
Plan Ahead
You’re invited to celebrate 60 years of OLLI on Friday, Nov. 15 (4-7 p.m.) at the Apiary in Lexington. Commemorate six decades of continuing education opportunities for older adults with dinner, drinks, live music + more. Register for tickets.*
Seasonal
Looking to boost your brand’s visibility? Our 2024 Holiday Gift Guide is the perfect place to showcase your gift-worthy products. With thousands of engaged readers, you will be seen by the right audience just in time for holiday shopping. Get in the guide.
Finance
The holidays are right around the corner. Is your small business ready for the holiday rush? From tailored financial solutions to expert advice, Field & Main Bank has you covered. Learn how to boost your sales, attract more customers, and make this holiday season your best yet.*†
†Member FDIC
Civic
🚗 Help local transportation shift gears
This expo could be your road to improvements. | Photo via @LexingtonKyGov
Are you hoping Lexington will change its course when it comes to transportation initiatives? Well, now you have your opportunity to voice feedback at the Lexington Fayette Urban County Council’s new Expo Series this Saturday, Oct. 19 from 9 to 11:30 a.m. at the Marksbury Family Branch Library.
The transportation-focused session will allow participants to visit tables and connect with council members and local experts. Talking points will range from bike safety to public transit to road + sidewalk repairs.
Attendees are encouraged to RSVP for the expo — coffee and light refreshments will be served.
Just a reminder, The Burl is hosting its “Blue Ridge Benefit” tonight featuring a lineup of Kentucky music. The show benefits BeLoved Asheville, so it’s a great opportunity to contribute to the recovery from the destruction caused by flooding in western North Carolina and eastern Tennessee.
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.