Fayette County

Lexington’s New Year’s Eve party is moving indoors due to rain. Here’s the details.

Rupp Arena at the Central Bank Center in downtown Lexington, Ky, Tuesday, August 1, 2023.
Rupp Arena at the Central Bank Center in downtown Lexington, Ky, Tuesday, August 1, 2023. Silas Walker/Lexington Herald-Le

Lexington’s big New Year’s Eve party will move indoors to Central Bank Center on Tuesday due to rain in the forecast, city leaders said this week.

The New Year’s Eve bash is the kickoff to the city’s 250th birthday celebration beginning in 2025. Many of the events scheduled for the New Year’s Eve party were slated to take place outside.

“After 250 years, we certainly know that the one thing that’s predictable about Kentucky weather is that it’s unpredictable,” said Mayor Linda Gorton. “No problem. We’re prepared. We’re moving inside Central Bank Center to keep everyone safe and dry. Come on downtown, and join the celebration!”

The celebration begins at 5 p.m for kids.

Activities include inflatables, basketball, programming from the Lexington Children’s Museum, a performance from M’Power Rhythm, Lexington’s youth-centered African drumming ensemble, and a special youth-centered countdown to the new year led by Gorton.

Beginning at 9 p.m., there will be music by Tee Dee Young and Honeychild. There will also be food trucks and drinks throughout the night. Maker’s Mark, which is sponsoring the event, will also have a specially-created 250th cocktail available for purchase.

The event is free.

The High Street parking lot will open at 5 p.m. with an hourly rate for the evening. Rideshare is encouraged. Ride-share drop-offs and pick-ups will be located on Vine Street.

A clear bag policy will be enforced.

This story was originally published December 30, 2024 at 9:53 AM.

Beth Musgrave
Lexington Herald-Leader
Beth Musgrave has covered government and politics for the Herald-Leader for more than a decade. A graduate of Northwestern University, she has worked as a reporter in Kentucky, Indiana, Mississippi, Illinois and Washington D.C. Support my work with a digital subscription
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