News Summary
Lexington is gearing up for an extravagant 250th anniversary celebration in 2025, marking its rich history since its founding in 1775. The festivities will commence with a New Year’s Eve bash and will continue throughout the year with themed events highlighting various aspects of life in Lexington. With an investment of $250,000 and support from local sponsors, the celebrations aim to connect the community while shining a light on Lexington’s vibrant past and promising future.
Lexington Gears Up for a Grand 250th Anniversary Celebration!
Get ready, Lexington! The charming city of Lexington is all set to throw the party of the century. Mark your calendars because 2025 marks the 250th anniversary, also known as the semiquincentennial, of our beloved city, which was founded back in 1775 after the historic Battle of Lexington. In anticipation of this milestone, the year ahead promises a nonstop stream of fun and community connection.
New Year’s Eve Bash to Kick-off Celebrations
The celebrations will officially commence on December 31, 2024, with a dazzling Times Square-style New Year’s Eve party just outside the Central Bank Center. What’s more festive than a giant blue horse—our city’s official mascot—being dropped at midnight to ring in the new year? The festivities will begin at 5 p.m. and include games, inflatables, food, and drinks for families to enjoy until 9 p.m., while adult-oriented festivities will kick off at 9 p.m. This event is more than just a party; it’s an opportunity for our community to reflect on our rich history and bright future.
Planning in Full Swing
Behind the scenes, an enthusiastic planning team of over 25 members, led by co-chairs Eunice Beatty and Kip Cornett, is working diligently to ensure that every event is memorable. The city is investing $250,000 into the anniversary celebrations, with support from generous corporate sponsors such as VisitLex and the University of Kentucky.
Monthly Themes to Keep the Festivities Rolling
But hold on—there’s more! The celebrations won’t stop after the New Year’s Eve festivities. Oh no! There will be themed events and activities planned throughout the entire year. Each month will spotlight different facets of life in Lexington, including wellness, history, education, music and written word, diversity, homecoming, culinary delights, business, sports, equine, arts, and even a look into the future of Lexington.
Looking Back at Lexington’s Rich Heritage
Let’s not forget that Lexington already has a history of spectacular anniversary celebrations. In 1975, the city marked its 200th birthday with a lavish four-day event that included luncheons, teas, and even a horse race down Vine Street! How cool is that? It’s safe to say that the upcoming 250th anniversary will be an event to remember.
Homecoming Month and Support for Local Businesses
June will be a particularly exciting month designated as Homecoming month, inviting former residents to return to see how their hometown has flourished. With an expected influx of visitors during the anniversary year, local businesses and the hospitality industry will greatly benefit from all the festivities planned. This is a golden opportunity for everyone to show off what Lexington has to offer!
Stay in the Loop with 250 Lex Commission
Are you eager to be a part of the action? Stay informed about upcoming events and activities by visiting the 250 Lex Commission website. Get ready for a jam-packed year filled with excitement, celebration, and a hearty dose of community spirit!
Lexington, let’s gear up for a year to remember as we celebrate our past, present, and bright future together!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Lexington Launches 250th Anniversary with New Year’s Eve Celebration
Lexington Marks 250 Years with Pam Miller’s Legacy
Celebrating 250 Years of Lexington: A Historical Overview
Lexington Prepares for St. Patrick’s Day Festival
Lexington’s New Year’s Eve Celebration Moves Indoors
Lexington to Host Spectacular New Year’s Eve Celebration
Lexington Hosts Indoor New Year’s Eve Celebration
Weekend Events in Central Kentucky for the Holidays
Lexington Prepares for a Spectacular New Year’s Eve Celebration
Lexington Launches 250th Anniversary Celebrations with Exciting New Year’s Eve Event
Additional Resources
- Spectrum News 1: Lexington Launching 250th Anniversary Celebration
- Kentucky.com: Lexington’s 250th Anniversary Announced
- LEX18: Mayor Gorton Announces 250th Anniversary Plans
- Breaking Bourbon: Lexington Brewing Distilling Co. 25th Anniversary Celebration
- Kentucky.com: Lexington Prepares for NYE Celebration
- Wikipedia: Lexington, Kentucky

Author: STAFF HERE LEXINGTON KY STAFF
LEXINGTON STAFF WRITER The LEXINGTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERELexingtonKY.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Lexington, Fayette County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Woodland Art Fair, Crave Food and Music Festival, and Railbird Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like Commerce Lexington and Blue Grass Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in education, manufacturing, and technology that power the local economy such as University of Kentucky, Toyota Motor Manufacturing, and Lexmark. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBowlingGreen.com and HERELouisville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Kentucky's dynamic landscape.