Ten fun facts about Lexington

1. The Heart of the Bluegrass Region

Nestled in the north central region of Kentucky, Lexington is the second largest city in the state and is often referred to as the heart of the Bluegrass Region. This region is known for its lush, rolling hills and is home to some of the most beautiful horse farms in the world. Lexington is a vibrant city with a rich history and culture, making it a great place to visit and explore.

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2. The Horse Capital of the World

Lexington, Kentucky is known as the Horse Capital of the World and the Thoroughbred City due to its three major race courses: Keeneland, Kentucky Horse Park, and The Red Mile. These courses are renowned for their world-class horse racing, attracting visitors from all over the world to witness the thrilling events. Keeneland is a Grade 1 racetrack that hosts the Breeders' Cup World Championships, while the Kentucky Horse Park is a working horse farm and equine competition facility. The Red Mile is the oldest horse racing track in the United States, and is home to the Red Mile Grand Circuit Meet. With these three major race courses, Lexington is the perfect destination for horse racing enthusiasts.

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3. A History of a Revolutionary City

Founded in 1775, the city of Lexington was a bustling hub of activity long before Kentucky became a state in 1792. Established in 1782, Lexington was a major player in the Revolutionary War and the War of 1812, and has since grown to become the second-largest city in the state. Today, Lexington is a vibrant city with a rich history and a bright future.

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4. Lexington, Kentucky: The Birthplace of Mary Todd Lincoln

Lexington, Kentucky is a city with a rich history, and is the birthplace of Mary Todd, who later became the wife of the 16th President of the United States, Abraham Lincoln. Mary Todd was born and raised in Lexington, and her family was prominent in the city's social and political circles. Mary Todd and Abraham Lincoln married in 1842, and their union would go on to shape the course of American history.

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5. The Rupp Arena: Home of the Kentucky Wildcats

Lexington, Kentucky is home to the largest basketball arena in the United States, the Rupp Arena. Named after legendary University of Kentucky basketball coach Adolph Rupp, the arena has a capacity of 23,500 and is the home court of the University of Kentucky Wildcats men's basketball team. It has hosted numerous NCAA tournament games, as well as concerts, conventions, and other events. The arena is a major landmark in Lexington and a source of pride for the city.

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6. Celebrate Bluegrass in Lexington!

Every year, the city of Lexington, Kentucky plays host to the Festival of the Bluegrass, a celebration of the city's rich musical heritage. The festival, which has been held annually since 1974, features a variety of bluegrass music performances, as well as traditional Appalachian crafts, food, and activities. The event draws thousands of visitors from across the country, and is a great way to experience the culture and history of Lexington.

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7. The Lexington Pride Festival: A Celebration of Diversity and Inclusion

Since its inception in 2007, the Lexington Pride Festival has been a vibrant and celebrated event in the city of Lexington. Every year, the festival brings together members of the LGBTQ+ community and their allies to celebrate diversity and inclusion. The festival features a variety of activities, including live music, drag shows, art installations, and educational workshops. The festival has grown in size and scope over the years, and now attracts thousands of attendees from all over the country. The Lexington Pride Festival is a powerful reminder of the progress that has been made in the fight for LGBTQ+ rights, and a celebration of the vibrant and diverse community that exists in Lexington.

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8. 4th of July in A Celebration of Freedom

In Lexington, the 4th of July is a time of celebration that lasts for several days, rather than just one day as it does in many other parts of the United States. The festivities typically include a parade, fireworks, and a variety of other activities that bring the community together. The parade usually features marching bands, floats, and other entertainment, while the fireworks display is a highlight of the celebration. Other activities may include carnivals, concerts, and other events that are designed to bring the community together and celebrate the nation's independence.

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9. Lexington Thrills Again!

In October of 2009, the city of Lexington, Kentucky made history by becoming the first city to launch a reenactment of Michael Jackson's iconic "Thriller" music video. Hundreds of people gathered in the city's downtown area to take part in the event, which was organized by the Lexington Parks and Recreation Department. The event featured a choreographed dance routine, complete with zombie makeup and costumes, that was performed in front of a large crowd of onlookers. The event was a huge success and has since become an annual tradition in Lexington.

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10. The Arboretum at A Garden of Beauty and Wonder

Lexington is home to the renowned Arboretum, a preserve that boasts an impressive array of native grasses and herbs, with over 50 species, as well as an astounding 1,500 different species of roses. This remarkable collection of flora is a must-see for any nature enthusiast visiting the area.

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