Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.| Photo via Wikimedia Commons ; Library of Congress
Martin Luther King Jr. Day is Monday, Jan. 20,so we thought we’d share the history of his presence in central Kentucky and what you can do to honor his life + legacy.
What can you do to celebrate?
The community is invited to remember + celebrate the life of the civil rights activist with two events in downtown Lexington.
Freedom March | Join UK and Lexington-Fayette Urban County Government at 1 p.m. outside of the Central Bank Center for a walk in Dr. King’s memory.
Commemorative Program | Reverend Dr. Nyle Fort will be the keynote speaker at the post-march celebration put on by the MLK Holiday Planning Committee. Attendees will enjoy live performances from musical guests.
Join the Freedom March, Monday Jan. 20 at 1 p.m. | Photo by Mark Cornelison
Is Dr. King connected to Lexington?
In 1957, the 28-year-old Dr. King gave the commencement speech to graduates at Kentucky State University, one of Kentucky’s two Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). The event was moved to Frankfort High School’s brand-new gymnasium because the crowd he drew was so large.
Jukebox Nights: 2000s | 4 p.m.-12 a.m. | Lost Palm | Price of purchase | Move and groove through the decades — this week, get naughty in the aughties + dance to Y2K classics.
Kevin Neihoff | 7 p.m. | Tin Roof Lexington | No cover | This Louisville-based singer/songwriter kicks off another weekend of music and mirth at this popular hang for musicians + non-musicians alike.
Saturday, Jan. 18
One-Day Salsa Intensive Level 1 | 12:30-3:20 p.m. | The Salsa Center Dance Studio | $20+ | Don’t sit on the sidelines, it’s time to stand up and salsa during this introduction to dance perfect for beginners.
Prix Fixe Dinner | Times vary | Chez Lyndon | $59 | Reserve your table at this downtown bed and breakfast for a special chef-inspired, three-course dinner.
Sunday, Jan. 19
Fitness Fair | 12-5 p.m. | Central Bank Center | Free | Meet with folks from 40 different gyms, studios, and fitness facilities to learn about their offerings + check out live demonstrations.
Harlem Globetrotters World Tour | 3 p.m. | Rupp Arena | $31+ | You don’t want to miss out on the high-flying dunks, alley-oops, long shots + laughs served up by this renowned basketball team.
Sober Curious? This test could help. | Photo by Getty Images
Dry January gains momentum each year as more Americans join the sober curious movement to rethink their broader relationship with alcohol. A 2024 survey found that 41% of all American adults planned to reduce alcohol consumption throughout the year, highlighting a growing trend toward moderation (and mocktails).
Taking a break from alcohol doesn’t just benefit mental clarity — it can also improve liver health. Studies suggest that two to four weeks of abstinence may reduce signs of liver inflammation and improve overall liver function.
Labcorp OnDemand’s Liver Health Test provides a deeper understanding of your liver’s condition by screening for inflammation, potential disease, or fibrosis. With Dry January as the perfect starting point for healthier habits, this test helps you gain valuable insights into your wellness journey.
Now through Tuesday, Jan. 21, the Liver Health Test is available for 25% off, no code needed. Make 2025 the year you prioritize your health.
Southern Living released its “25 Places to Go in the South in 2025" list and surprise surprise, the Horse Capital of the World landed a top spot. The magazine citied SoulFeast Week, an upgraded Keeneland + the city’s 250th birthday as notable reasons to visit.
Civic
Lexington Police Chief Lawrence Weathers reported a 14% drop in violent crime in 2024 compared to the previous year. Weathers credited increased community involvement and programs like ONE Lexington for this significant decrease. (WEKU)
Environment
In preparation for Lexington’s annual Water Week, held Saturday, March 22-Sunday, March 30, the city is accepting applications for volunteers to host events. Think: Litter pickups, trivia nights, and tree plantings. If you have a fun idea for connecting to local waterways, submit your event by Saturday, Feb. 8.
Cause
Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Bluegrass recently received a $120,000 grant from Chik-fil-A to support its mission of creating impactful relationships for local kids + teens. Visit the nonprofit’s website for information on becoming a Big, nominating a Little, and other ways you can support the program. (LEX18)
Community
Voting for Smiley Pete’s Best of Lex is currently underway. Select from categories like Food & Drink, Arts & Culture, Shopping, and Family to vote for your favorite Lexington businesses, organizations, and attractions until Friday, Feb. 7.
Feel Good
After three months in the UK Children’s Hospital NICU, a set of Georgetown quadruplets are finally coming home. Wish a happy welcome home to Griffin, Marlowe, Lane, and Knox Lawson. Donations can be made to Meal Train to support the growing quads and their parents. (LEX18)
Learn
Did you know there are animals that live at the LASC? These animal ambassadors help educate the public about the incredible diversity of nature. Children and adults can better understand why these animals are so important in environmental conservation through hands-on experiences. Meet them on your next visit.*
Shop
Upgrade your home printing with the HP Smart Tank 7602, featuring wireless setup, fast printing speeds, and two years of ink included. Get $120 off for a limited time.*
The Buy
The Buy
A reading journal. Use it to write notes about the books you’re reading — like quotes that catch your eye, pages you want to come back to, and your overall rating. Pro tip: Use multicolor pens to make filling out your journal even more fun.
A few weeks ago I went out to take pictures of local examples of Richardsonian Romanesque architecture and was stunned by the number of historic buildings within walking distance of each other. It’s warm and somewhat sunny today, so why not take a stroll downtown to enjoy some beautiful buildings? After your walk, keep the party going with some of our favorite Dry January destinations.
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