City of Lexington kicks off Christmas season with Lighting Festival

LEXINGTON, Ky (WTVQ)- In downtown Lexington Sunday,  hundreds of people braved the cool temperatures and rainy weather as the city kicked off the Christmas season.
The community came together to celebrate with the annual Holiday Lighting Festival.

“This is something so many people look forward to with their families, and as part of how they begin their holiday season,” says Allen McDaniel of the Downtown Lexington Partnership.

Triangle Park was filled with holiday cheer for the event.

City and community leaders came to help kick of the event off.

“It’s a great feeling to start the holidays in a joyous way, with the Lexington singers, and the different folks talking about the beauty of downtown,” says Lexington Mayor Linda Gorton.

The festival included ice skating, live music and carolers, food and vendors.
Santa Clause made an appearance to help light the tree.

“It’s part of the magic of the season,” says Gorton.

The Kentucky Jewish Federation took part for the third year, lighting the Mennorah.
Executive Director Mindy Haas says theyre thankful to be able to take part this year with Hanukkah being a special time for their families.

And while the war between Israel and Hamas has now entered a cease, Haas says they don’t want to over-celebrate knowing so many in their community are still suffering.

“More importantly, we are very grateful in our community that so many hostages have been returned home for the beginning of the holiday season. We don’t want to see any more tragic lives lost. Or anyone being held captive. We just want to be able to celebrate this holiday season as best as we can. And to make sure that our children wont feel the weight that we sometimes as adults feel,” says Haas

The city– is now planning its annual Christmas parade, set for next Saturday at 11 A.M. in downtown.