Event Calendar

The five groups of photographers in this exhibition worked collectively to capture the unique people, landscapes, and pace of life that distinguish Lexington, Kentucky. Maurice Strider collaborated with his students at Dunbar High School between 1934 and 1966 to create a rich archive of Black Lexington. Ida Nelson and Robert J. Long established Lafayette Studios in downtown Lexington to produce images for a range of commercial purposes between 1923 and 1959. The Lexington Camera Club was founded in 1936 and met regularly, often in room 208 at the UK Fine Arts Building, to encourage amateur photographers to develop more subjective uses for the medium. Their meetings continued for over thirty years with more than fifty members, and the club made its mark on photographic history with images that blend memory and imagination. In 2004, Marcie Crim, Jonathan Rodgers, David Schankula, and Richie Wireman began the Lexicon Project, a documentation of diverse communities in the city. Kurt Gohde and Kremena Todorova posted photographs and narratives on Facebook between 2020 and 2021 to facilitate connection in a time of social distancing. This exhibition is presented in honor of Lexington’s 250th birthday celebration and features work from our Museum collection, University of Kentucky Special Collections, and the Kentucky Room at the Lexington Public Library.

We are thrilled to present The Bourbon Cup in partnership with Journey — a kickoff celebration for the 13th annual Lexington Restaurant Week. Join local culinary legends as they prepare dishes with bourbon in an attempt to capture The Bourbon Cup. CHEF PAULA ENDARA, Lexington’s own Top Chef Season 22 Contestant, Executive Chef, Granddam & Lost Palm at The Manchester | CHEF TYLER MCNABB, Holly Hill & Company | CHEF COLE ARIMES, Executive Chef, Coles 735 Main & Epping’s on Eastside | CHEF BRADLEY HOFFMANN, Executive Chef, Dudley’s on Short | CHEF OUITA MICHEL, Lexington’s “Culinary Mayor” | CHEF DAMARIS PHILLIPS (CELEBRITY JUDGE), Winner, Food Network Star Season 9. Tickets are just $25 and every dollar supports FoodChain – a local non-profit doing incredible work in food education and access. The Grand Hall located next door to the hotel at The Manchester Events.  

For almost three decades, The Kentucky Theatre has screened classic films every Wednesday (matinee and evening) from late May until early September. Over the years, this summer series has proved to be a perennial favorite. From film noir standards like The Lady from Shanghai to classic Disney animation like One Hundred and One Dalmatians and more recent classics like Do the Right Thing, the SUMMER CLASSICS offer something for every film fan. Come see movies from your youth, introduce your kids and grandkids to the stars of Hollywood’s Golden Age, or discover a new personal favorite.

Lexington Restaurant Week, July 17-27, 2025. The best 10 days to go out on the town! See the link below for more information on participating restaurants.

On HOP night dozens of galleries, museums, artists’ studios, and creative spaces collectively throw open their doors for anyone and everyone to enjoy. LexArts HOP has something for locals and visitors alike. A chance to roam and explore Lexington while being introduced to diverse art and artists. Spend the evening hopping from location to location taking in galleries, artist studios, and supporting venues exhibits. Take this chance to socialize with friends, strangers, and art lovers galore. Many pieces will be for sale by the artists if you’re looking to start a new collection or add the perfect piece to an existing one. Some HOP sites are pop-ups, but many have regular hours that you can find in the OFFICIAL HOP GUIDE. Official HOP Guides will be available at LexArts on Mill, 161 N. Mill and at all participating sites.

In 1825, General Lafayette, the French hero of the American Revolution, made a visit to Lexington as a part of his U.S.A. tour. The townspeople, eager to honor the revolutionary icon, greeted him with parades, speeches, and an overwhelming display of admiration for his role in securing American independence. Lafayette’s visit sparked a sense of pride and nostalgia, and in a celebration of the shared history between France and the United States. At a “Tea and Talk” Waveland serves Solomon’s Porch savories, scones and sweets and Elmwood Inn tea. Enjoy a special presentation! Cost is $40 per person. Limit 20 guests. Call 859-272-3611 for reservations.

Join us for the R.J. Corman Tour de Lex, a casual, family-friendly bike ride that celebrates Lexington’s 250th anniversary! Starting at the beautiful Kentucky Horse Park, riders of all ages will enjoy a scenic journey along the Legacy Trail, one of the region’s most beloved greenways, ending at the North Lexington YMCA. Traffic control will be provided by the Lexington Police Department. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or just out for a leisurely ride, this event is the perfect way to explore the natural beauty of Lexington while honoring its rich history. Bring your family, your friends, and your love for the Bluegrass – and help us make history on two wheels!

Stay tuned for more information.

Andrew Lloyd Webber’s fabulous musical based on the biblical tale of Joseph’s “coat of many colors” is fun for the whole family! The whimsical and entertaining score features genres from country to disco to 50’s pop while the heart-warming story teaches important life-lessons of perseverance, forgiveness and love. The Lexington Theatre Company combines Broadway veterans, rising stars, and local professionals for a production that feels just like Broadway, crafted right here in Lexington.

More information coming soon!

Get ready to travel back to the ’80’s with an unforgettable performance, featuring a dynamic band, powerhouse vocalists, and the full force of the Lexington Philharmonic, all led by Music Director, Mélisse Brunet! Back to the ’80’s is a power-packed evening of the decade’s #1 hit songs, including “The Power of Love,” “Time After Time,” “Material Girl,” “I’ve Had the Time of My Life,” “Addicted to Love” and many others. Expect to hear songs from the most iconic stars of the ’80’s, such as Madonna, Debbie Gibson, Huey Lewis & The News, Phil Collins, Joe Cocker, and others. This Schirmer Theatrical/Greenberg Artists co-production features arrangements by Grammy-winner Jeff Tyzik.

The Kentucky Life Museum, which once housed a diverse collection of historical artifacts, played a crucial role in preserving Kentucky’s cultural heritage. Some of its valuable items belonging to Henry Clay were eventually transferred to Ashland, Henry Clay’s estate, in a move that sought to enhance the preservation and public accessibility of Kentucky’s historical treasures. At a “Tea and Talk” Waveland serves Solomon’s Porch savories, scones and sweets and Elmwood Inn tea. Enjoy a special presentation! Cost is $40 per person. Limit 20 guests. Call 859-272-3611 for reservations.

You are cordially invited to attend the national premiere screening of “Lexington: Resilience in the Redline.” “Lexington: Resilience in the Redline” is a down-home documentary that tells a local story of national significance. This documentary utilizes local history and policies paired with interviews highlighting the voices of more than 30 residents, leaders, and change-makers across housing, education, arts, and government. Each ticket to this event unlocks access to an immersive evening that includes a red-carpet entrance worthy of your best black-tie apparel, a “Research on the Rocks” food and drink reception, the chance to participate in a community art installation led by LaNora F. Long, and an expert-led panel discussion prior to screening.

250Lex: Concert for Lexington celebrates the city’s 250th anniversary with Lexington artists Ben Sollee, Joslyn & The Sweet Compression, Julia Perry, Central Kentucky Youth Orchestra, and a world premiere by Shawn E. Okpebholo.

The concert is free but registration is required. Registration opens July 1 at lexphil.org.

Let’s come together to celebrate Lexington’s story and dream big about what’s next. The 250Lex Forward Bash is your chance to connect with fellow young professionals and the young at heart who are passionate about moving our city forward. We’ll have live music from DJ Forerunner and the Bedford Band, delicious food, drinks and plenty of fun. Bring your ideas, meet new people and help shape the future of Lexington. This free event is made possible by 250Lex, hosted by BGCF365, Commerce Lexington and the Lexington Urban League Young Professionals. Registration is required — check back soon for more details.