12+ holiday markets coming to Lexington | Shop local at these holiday markets showcasing Lexington-based vendors, Kentucky businesses, artists, and craftspeople.
2024 holiday gift guide | Peruse 90+ gifts, including ideas for neighbors, foodies, significant others, homebodies, students, and gifts under $20.
3 new businesses coming to Hamburg Pavilion | From a new hospital to an under-construction middle school, Hamburg is growing again with the addition of a new grocery store + two national retailers.
Events
Events
Saturday, Dec. 14
December StoryWalk | 8 a.m.-5 p.m. | The Arboretum State Botanical Garden of Kentucky | Free | As you stroll from the Visitor’s Center to the Children’s Garden you’ll be greeted with interactive panels sharing “The Snowy Day” by Ezra Jack Keats. “The Nutcracker” | Times vary | Lexington Opera House | $35+ | The Lexington Ballet celebrates 50 years with this magical performance of Tchaikovsky’s holiday classic.
Sunday, Dec. 15
Lexington Black History Guided Walk | 1-2 p.m. | Charles Young Park | Free | Join Outdoor Programs staff to learn about Lexington’s African-American heritage as you walk + visit local spots preserving local Black history. Holiday Cookie Cake Class | 3:30-5 p.m. | Harkness Edwards Vineyards, Winchester | $57 | Receive guided instruction as you decorate your own freshly baked cookie cake — one glass of wine + all supplies are included.
Friday, Dec. 20
Friday Grounds Force | 10 a.m.-3 p.m. | Ashland, The Henry Clay Estate | Free | If you love the outdoors + want to make a difference, stop by to help clean up the historic property’s grounds.
Saturday, Dec. 21
Children’s Tea Time with Mrs. Claus | Times vary | Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill, Harrodsburg | $28 | Dress your little ones in their festive finest for afternoon tea + story time with seasonal sips, cookies, and sandwiches.
Sunday, Dec. 22
Plants, Pints & Pizza | Sunday, Dec. 29, Sunday, Jan. 26 | 1-3 p.m. | Rolling Oven Taproom Versailles| Free | Show off, sell, or swap your plant-related goodies while sipping pints + eating pizza.
McRib season is here — the seldom-available sandwich is temporarily back at McDonald’s. Availability + pricing vary by location, so we recommend checking with individual stores or the McDonald’s app. Psst — the McRib Locator reported the sandwich has been spotted at the Leestown Road restaurant.
Film
You’ve heard of Barbenheimer and Glicked, now brace for… Babyratu? Snag an advanced ticket to see Nicole Kidman in “Babygirl”, unwrap “Nosferatu” with Willem DaFoe, then check out our holiday movie roundup.
Shop
Pro tip for kids gifts:Consider gifting the family a membership to the Lexington Children’s Museum. Why? Experiences keep toys out of the living room and kids out of the house. Browse kid-friendly activities for more gift ideas.
Fun Fact
Quick — what’s the weirdest thing in our state? Is it the tomb of Constantine Rafinesque on Transy’s campus? That’s pretty strange, but according to FiftyGrande’s list of the “50 Weirdest Roadside Attractions,” the World’s Tallest Three Story Building in Paris, Kentucky is even stranger.
Give yourself the gift of a private garden at the Botherum Carriage House. | Photo via Airbnb
We all need a staycation or a trip to a different city from time to time. So we went looking for unique lodgings around town that showcase that unbridled spirit. So choose your ideal digs, pack your bags, and get ready for a memorable getaway.
Rooms with a view
Tiny home with castle views | 230 Pisgah Pike Tucked away on a working farm, this small space features modern conveniences and an exceptional view of The Kentucky Castle.
Hideaways with history
Shaker Village | 3501 Lexington Rd., Harrodsburg Nestled on 3,000 acres of rolling Bluegrass hills are 13 beautifully restored historic Shaker buildings where you can enjoy an easy + restful pace of life.
Farm charm
The Dew Drop In | 469 Browns Mill Rd. Enjoy panoramic views of family-operated Kentucky horse farm, Saxony Farm, with your morning coffee
Touch screen compatible gloves. Beat winter dryness + rough skin by keeping hands protected when you’re out and about, thanks to gloves that still let you use your phone.
I was 5 the first time my mother took me to see “The Nutcracker,” — I was mesmerized by the iconic music, soaring dance, and spectacular costumes + sets. Lexingtonians have two chances to experience this cultural touchstone: live at the Opera House featuring the Lexington Ballet, and on the big screen with the Royal Ballet. With two deeply different experiences to choose from, might I suggest you try both?
