34th Annual Ballet Under the Stars takes the stage at Woodland Park this week

Lexington Parks & Recreation in collaboration with Kentucky Ballet Theatre will present the 34th annual Ballet Under the Stars, one of the summer's most anticipated outdoor events, this week at Woodland Park. Performances run July 31 through August 4, with a rain date on August 5.

This annual event allows audiences to experience a night of professional ballet - complete with a stage, lighting, and costumes, in the beautiful setting of Woodland Park. The five-night event begins each evening with a pre-show youth production at 8 p.m., followed by professional ballet by Kentucky Ballet Theatre at 9 p.m.

This year's pre-show is titled Ballet 13: A Tribute to Taylor Swift and will feature dances with music from Taylor Swift's iconic discography. Attendees are encouraged to bring and exchange friendship bracelets, which has become a custom at the pop star's concerts.

The performances take place at Woodland Park (601 E. High St.), with gates opening at 6 p.m. Tickets are $9 per person (including tax), with free admission for children 3 and under, and can be purchased at the gate - cash, check or credit accepted.

Patrons are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets for seating and may pack a picnic dinner or purchase concessions onsite from local food vendors.

Parks & Recreation, a division of the Lexington-Fayette Urban County Government, oversees the programing, maintenance, and development of over 100 city parks and natural areas, six pools, five golf courses, community centers, recreational programs, and three arts venues. To find out more, follow @LexKYParks on Facebook, Instagram, or sign up for the email newsletter.