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Southern Lights Holiday Festival
Embark on a magical journey through the Southern Lights Holiday Festival, a cherished tradition at the Kentucky Horse Park. This spectacular three-mile driving tour illuminates the night with over a million twinkling lights. Beyond the dazzling drive, explore the vibrant Holiday Village, featuring photos with Santa, a petting zoo with unique animals, miniature train rides, and festive food options. It's a delightful experience for all ages, promising enchanting holiday cheer.
What to Expect
Three-mile driving tour with over a million twinkling lights.
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: $35 – Get tickets
- Parking: Free parking is available in the Visitor Center parking lot for the Southern Lights 5K Stroll. For the main event, parking is available near the Holiday Village.
- Accessibility: The event is wheelchair accessible. Wheelchair rentals are not available.
- Pets: Leashed pets are allowed, but not in the Animal Land tent or the Restaurant unless they are certified service animals.
Other Christmas Events Near Lexington
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families, couples, holiday enthusiasts
Vibe
Festive, magical, traditional
Energy Level
Low to moderate (driving, with optional walking in the village)
Budget
$$
Photo Friendly
Weather Sensitivity
Low (operates rain or shine, but extreme conditions may cause cancellation)
Special Events & Promotions
- Military & First Responders Nights (Dec 2 & Dec 10, 2025)
- Keeneland Kids Club Night (Dec 11th)
- Choir performances on select dates
- Author story times on Dec 21st
- Southern Lights 5K Stroll (Nov 22nd)
Location
Event Details
Duration
5:30 PM - 10:00 PM nightly
Ages
All ages
Timed Entry
No
Featured Performers
- SCAPA-Lafayette Choir
- Dunbar High School Choir
- Central Kentucky Saxophone Quartet
- Celebration of Song
Organizer
Kentucky Horse Park Foundation
Food & Drink
Food trucks and vendors available, including Tootie’s Peppermint Café, Mack’s Candy Shack, The Original Kettle Korn, and The Holiday Nut Hut. Alcohol is available at Tootie’s Peppermint Café and Rudolph’s Hitching Post.
Quick Actions
Tips & Advice
- Consider visiting on a weeknight (Monday-Thursday) to avoid the longest wait times, as weekends are particularly popular.
- Bring snacks, drinks, and entertainment for your car, as wait times can extend for several hours on busy nights.
- Tickets purchased online can be scanned directly from your phone at the gate, saving you time.
- While the driving tour is the main event, don't miss the Holiday Village attractions like Animal Land and Santa, which are included in your ticket price.
- Check the event schedule for special choir performances and Keeneland Kids Club Night for added entertainment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to purchase tickets?
It is highly recommended to purchase tickets online in advance at www.southernlightsky.com to save time. Tickets can also be purchased with cash or credit card at the gate.
Are there any discounts available for military or first responders?
Yes, free admission for one car is offered to active military and veterans, along with nurses, doctors, EMTs, police, and firefighters who show valid ID on designated Military & First Responders Nights (December 2nd and December 10th, 2025).
Can I bring my pet?
Leashed pets are welcome to attend, but they are not permitted inside the Animal Land tent or the restaurant unless they are certified service animals.
What is included with the Southern Lights ticket price?
Your ticket includes the three-mile driving tour of lights and access to the Holiday Village, which features photos with Santa, Animal Land, mini-train rides, and the Bluegrass Miniature Train Exhibit.
What happens if there is bad weather?
Southern Lights operates rain or shine. In the rare event of extremely hazardous driving conditions due to ice or heavy snow, the event may be canceled, with local media outlets announcing any closures.
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.