No matter what your interest or skillset, there’s a way you can help improve the Bluegrass. | Photo by LEXtoday
Maybe you have some extra time on your hands, or maybe you’re just in the giving spirit. All we know is there are more than enough great causes in Lexingtonto give your time to.
Whether you’re an animal lover, an artsy type, a natural mentor, or a healthcare enthusiast — there’s a nearby volunteer opportunity for you. Here are 35 ways to get involved in the Bluegrass.
For the outdoorsy types
Lexington Parks and Recreation | Our city’s parks department maintains the quality of our beautiful parks + regularly hosts community events. Whether you’re looking to get your hands dirty by trimming weeds or want to help organize a fun event — there’s a job for you.
Natural-born teachers and mentors
Common Good | Make a difference in the lives of local youth by mentoring after school, during the summer, or helping prepare a warm meal for them in the Common Good Kitchen.
Family Fun + Learning Night | 5-7 p.m. | Carnegie Center for Literacy & Learning | Free | This horse-themed night for kids age 3-12 will include dinner, activities, and a focus on the book “The Jockey and Her Horse” by Cheryl White.
The Manchester Cinema Series | 8-10 p.m. | Granddam Lounge | Free | Be excellent to each other by treating that special someone to an early dinner followed by a showing of “Bill & Ted’s Excellent Adventure.”
Thursday, Nov. 14
Cocktails & Connections | 6-8 p.m. | The Melodeon | Free | Sip and socialize with other women while browsing vendors including photographers, bakers, permanent jewelers + more — drinks and snacks will be available for purchase.
Braided Rug Workshop | 6-8 p.m. | LEX Creative ReUse | Free | In honor of Waste Reduction Week, learn how to make a small braided rug by reusing your own sheets.
Friday, Nov. 15
Exhibition Opening Reception | 5-8 p.m. | 21c Museum Hotel Lexington | Free | Celebrate the debut of “‘Still, Life! Meaning and Mending in Contemporary Art,” an exhibit with 58 artworks from 47 global artists.
Super Moon Hike | 7:30-9 p.m. | McConnell Springs Park | Free | Join Outdoor Programs staff for a leisurely one-mile walk in the woods to witness the full moon — registration is required.
Saturday, Nov. 16
Arts and Health Symposium | 9 a.m.-3 p.m. | Arts Place | Free | Discover how the arts can enhance mental and physical health through engaging discussions, interactive workshops, and expert presentations.
Sunday, Nov. 17
Nutcracker Tea Party with the Lexington Ballet | 12-1 p.m. | 21c Museum Hotel | $44.52 | Perfect for children age 3+, this enchanting tea party offers an interactive dance experience where little ones can twirl alongside and take photos with the featured ballet dancers.
Level up your workout with this innovative upgrade
Presented By YMCA of Central Kentucky
Ready, sweat, go, Lexington.|Photos courtesy of YMCA of Central Kentucky
Looking for a full-body workout in just 30 minutes? Yeah, it’s possible.
How? With EGYM.
The YMCA of Central Kentucky is the first YMCA in the Bluegrass State to launch EGYM, a tech-powered personalized workout experience built around an individual’s health goals and physical abilities.
Now available at the Whitaker Family YMCA after a one-time onboarding fee, it’s free to use for YMCA members. Ready to start your EGYM journey?
Origins Jazz Series is giving the gift of good music with the return of its holiday special, “A Vince Guaraldi Holiday + Duke Ellington Nutcracker Suite” on Sunday, Dec. 1 at The Kentucky Theatre. The pay-what-you-can concert will once again feature the Isaiah J. Thompson Quartet.
Eat
If you follow a gluten-free diet, we have some delicious news for you. Leestown Coffee House is hosting the Celiac’s Table for a pop-up market this Saturday, Nov. 16, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Think: cookies, mini pies, and sweet rolls — all sans gluten.
Sports
UK women’s soccer will host West Virginia this Friday, Nov. 15 at 7 p.m. for the first round of the NCAA tournament. This is the first time in 10 years the Wildcats have advanced to post-season play. Tickets are $10. (LEX18)
Seasonal
It’s the final week for the weekday Farmers Market on National Avenue. Head to the Warehouse Block this Thursday starting at 7 a.m. to stock up on local fruits, veggies, flowers + more. The Saturday farmers market will remain open year-round.
Lexingtonian
Local author Crystal Wilkinson is featured as a contributor in the “America’s Test Kitchen” newest book, “When Southern Women Cook.” The cookbook features 300+ recipes and stories from over 70 women writers. See more of Wilkinson’s work.
Beauty
Instead of another sweater or candle, it’s time to think outside of the box for gifts this holiday season. Our recommendation? Treat a loved one (or yourself) to a Pelo Beauty Collective gift card that can be used for hair appointments, brow lamination, and so much more.*
Read
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Shop
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🎁 The local spot for gifts + stocking stuffers
Presented By Poppy & Pomelo
Puzzles, and books, and skincare, oh my — find something for everyone on your holiday list at Poppy & Pomelo. |Photos courtesy of Poppy & Pomelo
As Stefon said,“This place has everything,” including gifts for men, women, kids + furry friends.
Here’s what’s on our wish list:
Cozy Comforts | Velvet jewelry boxes, wooly scarves, and wallets
Mindful Moments | Journals, puzzles, and cards
Self-Care Essentials | Shower steamers, lotions, and potions
DIY Delights | Artisanal gifts for the creative soul
In case you haven’t noticed, I have a sweet tooth. And when I saw that s’mores are back at Kenwick Table, I immediately marked my calendar. They even bring you your own tabletop campfire, how stinkin’ cute.
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