July 16, 2025

Lexington Prepares for 250th Anniversary Celebrations

News Summary

Lexington is set to celebrate its 250th anniversary with a series of events in 2025, including the free R.J. Corman Tour de Lex bike ride. Scheduled for July 26, participants will ride through the scenic Central Kentucky countryside. The event, supported by R.J. Corman, offers a curated experience with food trucks, live music, and a ‘Touch a Truck’ display, making it accessible to all. Advance registration is required, and commemorative medals will be awarded to registered riders.

Lexington is gearing up to celebrate its 250th anniversary with a series of engaging events throughout 2025. The highlight of these celebrations will be the free R.J. Corman Tour de Lex bike ride, scheduled for July 26. Participants will enjoy a scenic journey through the Central Kentucky countryside.

The bike ride will commence at the Kentucky Horse Park Campground, taking riders along the Legacy Trail to the North Lexington YMCA before returning to the starting point. Initially, there was a participation fee of $10 for children and $15 for adults; however, this fee has been waived thanks to a generous donation from R.J. Corman, making the event accessible to all.

To manage the turnout and ensure a safe experience for all, advance registration is required at bikesignup.com. This allows organizers to gauge the expected crowd size. In addition to the bike ride, the anniversary celebrations will feature a “Touch a Truck” event, showcasing a variety of vehicles, including those associated with R.J. Corman. Attendees can also enjoy horse interactions facilitated by the Kentucky Horse Park, a West Sixth Brewing Beer Garden, food trucks, and live music.

Riders on the Tour de Lex can choose to complete the entire route or opt for a shorter segment, catering to different skill levels and preferences. The bike ride is set to take place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., with traffic support provided by local police to ensure safety along the route. E-bikes are permitted on the Legacy Trail, although motorized vehicles such as golf carts, mopeds, ATVs, and dirt bikes are not allowed. Registered participants will receive commemorative medals, and there will be an opportunity to purchase event T-shirts.

R.J. Corman Railroad Group serves as the primary sponsor of the Tour de Lex, with a mission to foster a sense of community. The organization, deeply rooted in Central Kentucky, has a long history dating back to its founding by Rick Corman in 1973 after he graduated from Jessamine County High School. Initially focused on repairing railroad crossings, the company has since grown to serve major North American railroads and operates 19 short lines, some of which run through Lexington itself.

According to officials with R.J. Corman, the Tour de Lex is an important initiative for enhancing community unity, promoting wellness, and instilling pride in the local population. The company’s commitment to supporting the community reflects its longstanding ties to the area.

Throughout the anniversary year, the Lexington Herald-Leader and Kentucky.com will provide daily highlights of the city’s history, compiled by a local historian. Residents and visitors are encouraged to engage with their neighbors while exploring the scenic landscapes of Lexington and creating lasting community connections.

For those with questions or story ideas related to Lexington’s rich history, inquiries can be directed to [email protected]. This celebration year promises to be a memorable occasion for all, emphasizing Lexington’s storied past and vibrant future.