Lexington, October 12, 2025
News Summary
Lexington is celebrating its annual Tree Week, featuring various events aimed at highlighting the environmental and community benefits of trees. Running until October 19, activities include nature walks, yoga, educational programs, and the Art by Nature exhibit, showcasing works inspired by ancient trees. Mayor Linda Gorton also planted a bur oak tree at a historical site, emphasizing the city’s commitment to nature. Trees Lexington hosted a tree adoption event to encourage community participation in urban forestry, further underlining the importance of trees for both aesthetics and societal well-being.
Lexington is celebrating its annual Tree Week, which commenced on Friday and will run through October 19. This week-long event aims to highlight the environmental and community benefits provided by trees, featuring a wide range of activities and educational programs designed for residents and visitors alike.
The schedule for Tree Week includes multiple daily events such as nature walks, hikes, yoga sessions, educational programs, and arts activities, all focusing on the importance of trees. Notably, the Art by Nature exhibit is one of the featured attractions, showcasing works from approximately 100 artists who drew inspiration from trees that are over 250 years old. A public reception for this exhibit is open to everyone on October 17 from 6 to 8 p.m. at The Arboretum.
This year, Tree Week coincides with Lexington’s 250th anniversary celebrations. A significant moment during the week was marked by Mayor Linda Gorton, who planted a bur oak tree at McConnell Springs Park, the historical site where Lexington was founded. The bur oak at this location is estimated to be over 300 years old, further emphasizing the connection between the community’s history and its commitment to nature.
Mayor Gorton highlighted the vital role that trees play in enhancing the quality of life within communities and their positive impact on the environment. She called Tree Week a signature celebration for the city, underscoring the importance of nurturing a thriving ecosystem for future generations.
In addition to the celebration of art and history, Trees Lexington, a nonprofit organization, hosted a tree adoption event during Tree Week. The event featured over 40 species of trees, all native to Kentucky, encouraging community members to adopt and plant trees themselves. Attendees were supported by volunteers who assisted them in selecting the right trees for their needs.
According to Nancy Barnett, a board member of Trees Lexington, the organization has a goal of giving away more than 300 trees to Fayette County residents each spring and fall. This initiative aims to promote urban forestry and community involvement in tree planting.
Research suggests that increasing tree cover in urban areas could lead to a reduction in gun violence within communities, further illustrating the significance of the relationship between trees and societal well-being. Tree Week serves as a vital reminder of how trees contribute to not only the beauty of neighborhoods but also to the overall safety and health of community members.
As Tree Week progresses, the series of events continues to foster a sense of community through nature, art, and education, ultimately paving the way for a greener and more sustainable Lexington.
FAQ
What is Tree Week in Lexington?
Tree Week is an annual event in Lexington that celebrates trees through various activities and educational programs, emphasizing their importance to the community and the environment.
What events are happening during Tree Week?
Tree Week includes nature walks, hikes, yoga sessions, educational programs, and the Art by Nature exhibit, among other activities focused on celebrating trees.
When is the Art by Nature exhibit reception?
The reception for the Art by Nature: Rooted in Time exhibit is scheduled for October 17 from 6 to 8 p.m. at The Arboretum.
How can I adopt a tree during Tree Week?
During Tree Week, Trees Lexington hosted a tree adoption event featuring over 40 native species. Community members were encouraged to adopt and plant trees, with volunteer assistance available at the event.
Key Features of Lexington’s Tree Week
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Duration | October 13 – October 19 |
| Main Events | Nature walks, hikes, yoga sessions, educational programs, Art by Nature exhibit |
| Art Exhibit | Showcases works from approximately 100 artists inspired by trees older than 250 years |
| Tree Planting | Mayor Linda Gorton planted a bur oak at McConnell Springs Park |
| Tree Adoption | Trees Lexington offered over 40 native tree species for adoption during the event |
| Community Goals | Give away over 300 trees to Fayette County residents each year |
| Environmental Benefits | Increased tree cover can help reduce societal issues such as gun violence |
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Author: STAFF HERE LEXINGTON KY STAFF
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.
